Hello.
I'm currently working on a series of monster-entry PDFs that I'd like to eventually publish. Currently, I'm finishing up a few entries that are set up as follows:
- An introductory letter from an adventurer detailing an encounter with the featured monster (each PDF is framed as an entry in a periodical that people submit monster information to).
- Some GM advice on how to integrate the monster into a campaign or adventure.
- The monster's statblock.
- Extra background about the monster's habitat or history, if needed.
- A few byproducts that can be harvested from the monster.
- One or more magical items that can be made from the byproducts, or are otherwise linked to the monster in some way; OR some other content such as feats or spells that have a thematic connection to the monster.
With all of this, plus OGL information and such (but no cover), I have it at about 3 pages. I've seen some with higher page counts, and others with even less.
My question is: From your experience as either a third-party publisher, or a purchaser of third-party content, how much content do players expect from a PDF for around $1?
As a consumer, this looks like a fairly good deal for the price. A picture would be nice (especially if the monster is a new creation or an unfamiliar/obscure addition) but at the cost completely understandable if absent, and wouldn't make or break it for me.
I like the premise and format, but I have over 60 solo monster or tight knit pdfs of forums, markets, etc. You need to make the series work, getting customers to make sure to watch for your offerings. I make sure to check out Pathways and other complimentary (free) work for interesting ideas. They do nice buff-ups for free. You need to make your's pop out. I suggest a micro encounter where the PCs have to react to the special abilities the monster has. Drop some Knowledge checks and let the obscure skills shine. A few variants or mutations of old staples, suggested backstories and so on. I once tried to warn the players they were facing a Gorgon Guardian beast by having the find 'stone crows' that had heavy stone feathers because the gizzard stones came from demolished victims of the Gorgon.
I just wish I had had more crows. An AC 18 flock of crows is a very odd encounter!