Tue, Jun 1, 2021 at 4:35 AM
David,
I realize that I have no fixed idea of the size of the graphic you envision. I am not referring to the pixel count or resolution, but rather to the supposed real world size as expressed in either inches or centimeters which would be the proportions of same ( such sizes as: Standard American 8-1/2 x 11, European A4, etc. )
Do please advise.
Smiles,
- Ignatz
Tue, Jun 1, 2021 at 6:12 AM
Ignatz,
I think we should go with 8.5x11 inches, as the PDF of the rulebook is that size.
Game companies play around with those dimensions quite a bit: 12.56×16.24 inch, 6×9 inch, and 17.50×11.25 inch. There doesn't seem to be any standard at all. A larger size would show off the cover, of course, but 8.5x11 will make everyone's life easier at this point (well…if they live in the USA; our paper sizes are weird).
-David
Tue, Jun 1, 2021 at 6:23 AM
David,
Thank you for the input. Now that I have those dimensions (and your initial sketch from before) I can put together an idea graphic.
The proportions have bearing on your required real world size requirements, but the resolution thereof is another matter. In general, the rule of thumb is that output for print runs at something like 300 pixels per inch, but I'm free to spend use all the computer 'think time' I want to spit out a juicy, high-res version that can be downsized as required. Should be fun.
- Ignatz
Tue, Jun 1, 2021 at 9:46 AM
Ignatz,
The thing about game rulebooks in PDF form is that, unless they're only a couple of pages long, no one prints them off. Some will read them on a tablet device, but most people will work with them from their computers. And, since computer monitors are wider than they are tall, it begs the question of why the books even need to have "normal" proportions at all.
The Stardrifter rules were created on the 8.5x11 inch format, because they were going to short, at first: 12 pages at most. Obviously, that's no longer the design, as I've been working organically, and the page count has ballooned accordingly. People who approach this process with more forethought have the opportunity to be unconventional, and take better advantage of screen real estate.
-David
Tue, Jun 1, 2021 at 1:19 PM
David,
Noodled together a cover idea... still a bit rough... somewhat on the lines of the sketch you sent.
Feedback please.
- Ignatz