Rulebook Guide Update #2 Writing Style Guides

The Importance of Writing Style Guides

In my previous post, I outlined the modules and topics I plan to cover in my comprehensive Rulebook Guide. One section in Module 1 covers formatting manuscripts. While researching related topics I lack expertise in, I’ve realized the necessity of establishing writing style guides—an important aspect of rule book writing I want to explore further.
Since starting working at a small tabletop game studio with basic knowledge of publication processes, we’ve had to figure things out as we go. After 7 years, we’ve learned and improved a lot. Now we work with many designers—some have great mechanics but little writing experience. I want to help them, and myself, write better by establishing standards for experienced authors to follow. This led me to develop a quick style guide—critical for writers, editors, and designers alike to ensure clear, consistent communication.
As a designer, I’m still learning about style guides. But a section of my manual will cover this vital knowledge missing from design programs. Like typesetting—another under-taught area we often learn on the job. For style guide examples, I recommend The Chicago Manual of Style and Elements of Style. Major publishers like Wizards of the Coast use them to manage projects and people. These style guides provide cohesive communication for readers.

Here are some useful style guides tailored to tabletop games:

Stonemaier Games

This is a very specific style guide for tabletop games. Stonemeier specializes in board games. While these type of games have simpler rule books, the rule writing process share a lot of common ground with RPGs and Wargames. This guide is very concise and a great source to use in your manuscripts.