Elowan ,
I don't know what they cost, that is why I asked.
For the most part you answered my question. Any My understanding is that MM is a one person -company. How many were involved in the development of MOO II or CIV II? I loved the Tech Tree poster provided in CIV II. I had it mounted over my wall till I found SE.
I do have to admit I like the "charm" of discovering things on my own. It is part of the pleasure. then agin, I also enjoy hiking 6 hours up hill to see what is on the otherside.
Full disclosure: I do use the Tech Tree Viewer to aid in recalling what leads to what. I do ask for help. VIA IRC chat Fyron's advice saved my homeworld. I was in the middle of a game and in chat when the Rage showed up. Hm, The advantage of WP over Sats? Those WP's toated a DD and asorbed the 3 CSMs that hit Home.
I do read the forum every day for ideas and informaion. SJ's solution to players that colonize your systems was priceless.
Without these forums I would be very frustrated by the lack of a better manual. Indeed, I would have been up a creek without a manual and Tech Tree in CIV II.
Conclusion:
Yes, I would have been very pleased if the Online Manual had included the informaiton you want. It would have reduced the learning curve dramaticaly.
My question stands: How much would it have cost for Arron Hall to have included what you are asking for?
BTW: I think it is great if you would do up such a manual or if a team here would do so. I do agree it would allow more time focused on the playing the game and less time on How to Play the game.