Oh dear gods WHY AM I SO OLD?
I'm actually referring to the /original/ Hacklopedia, which consisted of ten $15 paperback black and white volumes. At the time I was incensed because I was really excited about Hackmaster and the release of a $150 monster sourcebook in the era of $30 hardbacks was unforgivable. It really seemed like Kenzer was drinking their own Kool-Aid and using Hard 8 marketing practices as well as writing style.
BUT THAT WAS 13 YEARS AGO, and (judging by your profile) you may not even be old enough to remember it!
*weeps quietly*