Can data files be changed between turns?

PraetorSpectre · #1 September 2nd, 2006, 12:54 PM

We are playing our own test game experimenting with engine tweaks. Of course, there are errors, like "Combat Movement" trying to be used ala "Standard Movement".
- I know the problems (especially one above)
- I got my fixes figured
- I know data files are "checked" (SEIV Mod 101)

Q. How implement changes to data files in current game?
- Any way to change the component.txt (or any data file), HOST the turn, then send updated data files to players? Or something similar??

Thank you!

Renegade 13 · #2 September 2nd, 2006, 01:04 PM

As far as I know, data files are read when the game is first created, and then not read again during the game.

However, I might be wrong about this, you'll want someone else who knows more to confirm it.

Suicide Junkie · #3 September 2nd, 2006, 01:41 PM

You've got it.

1) Players play their turns using the old version of the mod.
2) Then you host using the new version.
3) Then the players play using the new version.

The one thing you must not do is reorder items, insert or delete them. You can edit parts of an item, but wholesale item move/add/delete will break savegames.

Items can be added to the end of the file without breaking the savegame, but it may look sub-optimal in game, and they may not hide obsolete items properly.

Fyron · #4 September 2nd, 2006, 01:44 PM

For referenge, in a single player game (that is using sequential movement), all you have to do is close SE4, then reopen it and reload your savegame and it will be updated.

Urendi Maleldil · #5 September 2nd, 2006, 05:09 PM

The files in the Data folder are loaded when SE4 is launched. If you make changes to the data files during a game, you have to quit and re-start SE4 before you can see your changes.

The AI files are loaded when a turn is executed. You can make changes to the AI while the game is in-progress and the game will follow any changes you make when you hit the "End Turn" button.

Gandalf Parker · #6 September 3rd, 2006, 12:06 PM

That makes for an interesting chaotic brainfart.
So I could write a little basic program that randomizes the settings of some races. Just enough to provide fluctuation in their mood and responses.

Wait, better than that, who wants to create a race of insane beings? Every 10 turns they have a coup and completely redefine their empires policys.

Ohh ohh better yet a race of insane shape-changers. Not only do they redefine their policies but also randomly select their appearance and ship designs (Im guessing that already built ships would stay that way)

OK.. ok.. Im better now. I will go take more medicine.
The doctor says these episodes are getting much rarer.

Gandalf Parker

scJazz · #7 September 3rd, 2006, 12:32 PM

No wait don't take the blue pill! I think your on to something here!

narf poit chez BOOM · #8 September 4th, 2006, 04:57 AM

Hey, with the SEV AI scripting, that could be done. Just make a random number generator, add in all the scripts. Every X number of turns, Y script package is randomly selected and run each turn.

Black_Knyght · #9 September 4th, 2006, 04:59 AM

You guys are really starting to scare me.......

scJazz · #10 September 4th, 2006, 09:12 AM

Quote:

narf poit chez BOOM said:
Hey, with the SEV AI scripting, that could be done. Just make a random number generator, add in all the scripts. Every X number of turns, Y script package is randomly selected and run each turn.

ohhhh yaaaa I like it! Suicide Junkie's Empire of Totally Whacked Behavior (tm)... every random turns execute funky script then execute directory change of AI personality. That'd be entertaining!