Jervis Johnson: Writing Special Rules

THE SHORT VERSION

Jervis uses his Altar of War work to explain three requirements for a special rule: atmosphere, enjoyment and clarity. Background creates an initial shortlist, but minor details do not all deserve mechanics. He avoids effects that merely remove an opponent’s enjoyable options and looks for clearer alternatives to rules needing many exceptions. The column presents design as a process of selecting and balancing ideas rather than reproducing every fictional detail.

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Find this article in White Dwarf 405, pp. 54–55.

This is an original summary. Refer to your magazine for the complete article, rules, images and painting steps.