Rulebook layout

Munkey · Post by **Munkey** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 1:52 am

Is it just me or is the rulebook layout terrible, I can't think of anyone who would want to play the game without the 'advanced' rules and I know that I never have, even for my first game.

I think it would be a huge improvement if all the rules were included together so that thing like interceptions and fumbles are in the passing section. Maybe this would help people to find the rules they are looking for with more ease than currently.

I would also like to see a section in the rulebook for experimental/optional rules, things that are favored by the BBRC and considered at least somewhat balanced but are not fully officially sanctioned.

Maybe things like Kicking which seems to have a lot of favor but not a lot of popular support for full inclusion into the game could be included in the expereimental section.

Anyway what does everyone else think?

Trambi · Post by **Trambi** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 2:30 am

The LRB is for the experimented players and novices so it's logic, to start with the basis then extra rules. It's just my opinion.

Post by **Dave** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 8:53 am

sgree but I remember (fondly

) that after my first game I wanted more, used the advanced rules and Hey Presto, a Fumble. I spent ages looking after 'what to do'

So for the little more advanced players a better lay out could be usefull

just my two cents

Munkey · Post by **Munkey** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 6:18 pm

I realise that the rules are for novice players too and wouldn't want to put anyone off starting the game but does anyone really play with the basic rules alone?

Perhaps things like Big Guy's, secret weapons, etc. could be in an advanced section with rules for assisting blocks, fumbles and GFIs nearer to the core rules they relate to.

Just my opinion though

roysorlie · Post by **roysorlie** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 11:28 pm

Oh! Hey guys!

I could support a new layout.
It's hard not to support a change that makes life easier.

Personally, I think the rulebook is easily browsed, and not very large at that. (but then, I GM Rolemaster, so I might have a screwed up view)

And I also like the idea of a (more or less) official experimental/optional rules list. That would give all users of the game, the same chance to playtest rules.

Mestari · Post by **Mestari** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 5:02 am

I posted this earlier in a thread concerned with making the kicking rules official, but this seems like a more relevant thread:

This is basicly exactly what you're saying, so I wholeheartedly support your point of view.

------------------
Some people want it (EDIT: kicking rules made official), some people don't, and both should be pleased.

To me the solution is simple.

The BB rulebook already has the stupid and redundant "Extra rules"-part. I've never seen anyone who doesn't use the extra rules and everyone considers them to be part of the core rules.

1. Move the "Extra" rules to normal rules

2. Now, introduce Extra rules -section as follows:

--------------BEGIN-----------
Extra Rules

The following section contains official house rule add-ons. They are finalised versions of popular house rules and are fully optional. Your league commissioner decides whether your league uses any of these. These rules are considered as improvements by some and as revolting by others. Unlike many house rules available from the internet, these are fully tested and balanced with the core rules, the very reason why they're included! This section is a safe place for a new (and the more veteran ones too!) commissioner to look for nice house rules to include in his league.

Table of contents:
1. Kicking rules
2. blahblah
3. blahblah2
4. etc.
----------------END-------------------

Now this should make all concerned parties content:
The rule is in the rulebook and has an official status. Still, no-one is forced to use them!
You can always say that they wouldn't have to use them anyhow, but that's pretty much the same as saying that no-one has to use "Interception"-rules from the rulebook. It's true - no-one has to, but everyone does, because after all they are official rules. The suggestion above should solve that.

Colin · Post by **Colin** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 5:08 am

I could live with that.

Anthony_TBBF · Post by **Anthony_TBBF** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 7:08 am

I actually like the layout as is. Learning BB and playing it regularly are two different things, I think the basic rules are a good way to teach novice player the basics without overwhelming them with rules.

Post by **Dave** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 11:17 am

I like that 'extra rules' idea!!

good un!!

Zergo · Post by **Zergo** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 12:36 am

Having just taught my roommate to play, I can say that the basic rules is a blessing. There really is a lot to handle for a first time player, especially someone who has never played GW or GW-style games before.

Things like assisting blocks, weather tables, kickoffs charts and other things can be really confusing concepts if you don't have the bare essentials down.

Personally, I think that the layout is just fine.

Toby · Post by **Toby** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 2:43 am

There should be 4 Rulebooks:

Basic Rules
Well a Newbies Guide to Blood Bowl. Easy and simple, fun to read but not to weird...

Extra Rules
You want more ? Come get some. Blood Bowl Madness, Fun and Entertaining.

Experimental Rules
Well try those or create your own. Test drive the Rules that become offical next year or have been last year ^^

Blood Bowl Compendium
Ok this is going to get serious ^^. Harcore Rules only for the Enthusiast Gamer. Reference Tournament Ruleset.

Ghost of Pariah · Post by **Ghost of Pariah** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 2:58 am

SHHH!!!!!!!

Don't give them any ideas!!!!

Mestari · Post by **Mestari** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 8:15 am

Anthony_TBBF wrote:I actually like the layout as is. Learning BB and playing it regularly are two different things, I think the basic rules are a good way to teach novice player the basics without overwhelming them with rules.

I would hardly call the current ruleset as "overwhelming". Granted, it's a it harder to teach more rules than it is to teach less rules, but the point is: we are rookies only once during our BB carieer, so the rulebook should be laid out to suit the needs of the more experienced gamer.

But as everyone should be happy, add a separate, a few pages step-by-step first game guidance sheet. There used to be one in WHFB or Epic, can't remember which.

Booklet includes a game report, with instructions on what to read at the same time "Now, read rule for player actions". "Ok, so Griff declares a Move action - this means he can move, right? He moves eight squares. If he'd want to move more, he'd have to GFI (see page x of the rulebook)."
Etc.

A separate booklet to serve the newbies and the rulebook to be laid out so that it serves those used to the game.

Ithilkir · Post by **Ithilkir** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 2:47 pm

Then of course, Fanatic release the Codex/Warhammer Armies version for Blood Bowl..
Playbook: Chaos - Featuring extra rules for teams dedicated to the four powers of chaos, beastman teams, new chaos star players, a look at some of the most famous Chaos teams out there and campaign events for chaos teams!

ahem...

Mestari · Post by **Mestari** » Mon Dec 09, 2002 2:58 pm

I just hope we will be spared from that ...