I am working on a series of historical war games for beginners. The series will have Booklets with lots of history and a single battle. They will cost $4-$5 for PDF and $8-$10 for print. Expansion Scenarios will have only history associated with the particular battle and a single battle. Scenarios will cost $1 for PDF and $5-$6 for print.
My question is, where to include the rules. The mechanics are the same for the entire series, except for scenario specific rules.
I am considering three options.
1) Rules only in the Booklets. The Scenarios are suppliments and you need at least one main book to play.
2) Rules in the Booklets and Scenarios. They all stand alone.
3) Rules are provided on the web site for free, and on a separate sheet in the Booklets and Scenarios.
I see plusses and minuses to all three.
1) I get at least one Booklet sale from everyone who buys scenarios. This seems kind of standard. Main Game + Suppliments. If I release a demo, the rules are available anyway.
2) I don't have to worry about someone buying a Scenario and being angry that they can not play the game. Booklet sales may suffer. (Why buy a bunch of history you don't want if you don't have to?)
3) Same as #2.
I am leaning toward #1 or #3. Any suggestions?
