No we aren't going to be talking about the game today! Last time we looked at proper placement, and today we're going to look at that in terms of formatting.
When you are writing your rulebook, the way you place any example images, side bars, or sample text can be very important. You want to place them so they work best for the user. Have you ever seen an image that just really feels out of place because of how it's formatted? There is a reason that I always place my little blurbs with pictures to the right of what I write, and here's why.
When you are writing your rulebook, the way you place any example images, side bars, or sample text can be very important. You want to place them so they work best for the user. Have you ever seen an image that just really feels out of place because of how it's formatted? There is a reason that I always place my little blurbs with pictures to the right of what I write, and here's why.
So, how do you feel seeing that image on the left? It's most likely the first thing you saw, even before reading this sentence. That's because you are reading from left to right.
Now there are other cultures that do have things written right to left, and if you are writing rules or having them translated for those languages it is something you need to think about. For most English readers though, I recommend ignoring Beyonce (you don't want everything in a box to the left).
Why is this? At first you would think that if you really wanted someone to notice a diagram of some kind doing it this way would be the easiest way for you to make them take notice. The real problem is, IT'S ANNOYING. Now that may be subjective, so let's look at the science here. The human brain really likes to make patterns and put things in order. When things are out of place it does tug on our nerves even if only ever so slightly.
Now there are other cultures that do have things written right to left, and if you are writing rules or having them translated for those languages it is something you need to think about. For most English readers though, I recommend ignoring Beyonce (you don't want everything in a box to the left).
Why is this? At first you would think that if you really wanted someone to notice a diagram of some kind doing it this way would be the easiest way for you to make them take notice. The real problem is, IT'S ANNOYING. Now that may be subjective, so let's look at the science here. The human brain really likes to make patterns and put things in order. When things are out of place it does tug on our nerves even if only ever so slightly.
The better option if you want something to be displayed prominently is to center it. It shows that it is important without nudging on your nerves like formatting to the left does. Plus, it isn't on the left or right side. While this seems like a "duh Susan" thing to say, there is very good reason to mention it. Let's take another quick look at the right.
You have been conditioned to look to the right most of the time for side notes or side bars when reading rulebooks. Pick up your nearest rulebook and take a look to the right. More then likely the little facts that aren't 100% needed all the time but still relevant to the section are hanging out there.
Images to the right are those that you know can be helpful but might not be necessary. Images to the left bother the brain. Seeing an image in the center of the page shows it's importance without bothering the brain by saying "this isn't to the right, it must be important, and it looks nice right there in the middle, I should look at that!"
Images to the right are those that you know can be helpful but might not be necessary. Images to the left bother the brain. Seeing an image in the center of the page shows it's importance without bothering the brain by saying "this isn't to the right, it must be important, and it looks nice right there in the middle, I should look at that!"
So when you have examples of gameplay or little side notes to help players learn your game, ask yourself left, center, or right? Make sure to choose wisely, the people who are playing your game depend on it to be good! Until next time: Every Game Deserves A Good Rulebook.