[Abandoned] - Galactic Conquest

[Night Strike]

Thanks. As for the sig, it's within 600 by 150.

ApophisNL...i have done a F5 refresh in case i missed something but the properties of the signature ani-graphic is showing 320w x 240h.
Its the height that has to come down to 150 or less.

I know there's rules, but the signature does fill up that space on the map quite nicely. It doesn't look too prominent by being too tall.

[Aerial Attack]

Thanks. As for the sig, it's within 600 by 150. :)

ApophisNL...i have done a F5 refresh in case i missed something but the properties of the signature ani-graphic is showing 320w x 240h.
Its the height that has to come down to 150 or less.

I know there's rules, but the signature does fill up that space on the map quite nicely. It doesn't look too prominent by being too tall.

Apophis/Night Strike,

Cainswk isn't talking about the BYLINE on the map. He's talking about the signature file for Apophis's posts here in the forum. By including the map in his signature, Apophis has accidentally violated that rule. He needs to shrink the animated gif down to a "thumbnail" (still keeping the appropriate dimensions) with a height no greater than 150

[ApophisNL]

Oh my goodness, you guys are talking about my forum signature. I thought you were taking about the map's sig!!! I'll fix it.

EDITED:
Fixed!

[ApophisNL]

Nice update Apophis.

1) Are you good at XML or have you contacted someone to help you?

1a) you need a place on the map to put "XML - [name]", unless you do it yourself.

2) The earth planets with star gates are still tough to distinguish [maybe lessen the glow of the star gate?]

3) The mysterious object on Invey II needs more shadow/glow to match the one on Devi I

4) I like the sample army numbers. We need yellow on a yellow sun, blue and green on a blue sun, and red and yellow on an orange sun. We also need to see what 888 and 8888 will look like (have to code for 888 level) - to make sure no overlaps. Definitely include Suibor II [name], Qyis I [star gate], and Invey II [mysterious object] amongst the planets you number - as they can potentially obscure important things.

5) Edit the first post in this thread to include the updated territory/system counts [you can keep that original 9 systems and 29 terrs]. Put this between the 2 maps.

I've had a quick look at the XML and I'm sure I can handle it okay. I just want to finish the large map, then get the small one done, then do the xml.

[Aerial Attack]

I forgot about the

_____________________
ApophisNL

line in the sig. You either need to remove that or shrink the thumbnail by another 25 pixels or so

[cairnswk]

Oh my goodness, you guys are talking about my forum signature. I thought you were taking about the map's sig!!! I'll fix it.

EDITED:
Fixed!

ApophisNL...sorry for the confusion, i'll remember ot be more specific next time.

[Night Strike]

Thanks. As for the sig, it's within 600 by 150.

ApophisNL...i have done a F5 refresh in case i missed something but the properties of the signature ani-graphic is showing 320w x 240h.
Its the height that has to come down to 150 or less.

I know there's rules, but the signature does fill up that space on the map quite nicely. It doesn't look too prominent by being too tall.

Apophis/Night Strike,

Cainswk isn't talking about the BYLINE on the map. He's talking about the signature file for Apophis's posts here in the forum. By including the map in his signature, Apophis has accidentally violated that rule. He needs to shrink the animated gif down to a "thumbnail" (still keeping the appropriate dimensions) with a height no greater than 150

OH, ok. I thought 600 * 150 was really big. But then again, I don't know pixels. And if I do remember correctly, map signatures aren't supposed to be very big. Perhaps post signatures should be handled via PM as to not confuse people.

[ApophisNL]

Here we go:



Numbers are not in final position or anything, just dropped em to show contrast, etc.

[Aerial Attack]

Nice update.

1) We still need yellow numbers on a yellow sun

2) This is a big one. You need to move a few planets/system paths. Right now the system paths between Eallah and Fikwi [Eallah III] AND Bylaris and Secunda [Secunda IV] AND Junas and Kilam [Junas I] go right through planets. To a lesser extent Haig II [this one just arc the system path more].

2b) You have to make sure the system paths clearly connect [Suibor fades in the asteroid belt]. There are lots of these that fade/die before they connect

3) You never gave your thoughts on how to handle asteroids in the system path.

4) move the Invey II mysterious object a few pixels left [and increase the purple shadow]

5) The new earth planet shadows are much easier to distinguish - I personally liked the old deep blue color *sigh*. Also, Haig II might need just a wee bit more shadowing.

6) The new color scheme for earth planets [in the legend] might too closely resemble the blue stars ...

Is there anybody else out there with an opinion?

[Night Strike]

I don't like the mysterious object picture. It's bland. And those Stargates look awfully like the ones from the movie/show Stargate. Could that be a copyright issue?

[Coleman]

Just so you know, you aren't responsible for 4 digit numbers.

The current standard is 3 digit numbers can not overlap each other, territory names, or small borders.

2 digit numbers can not overlap anything unless they are inside a circle/symbol that does so and/or are artistically obvious as to what they belong to.

So I'm not worried about your 4 digit number in Secunda III overlapping the III a bit. To avoid confusion, however, I'd suggest not using any 4 digit numbers on territories in the future.

I like where this is going. I'd like to encourage people other then Aerial Attack and Night Strike to come comment on things although they seem to have everything covered, just to get some more variety in opinions.

There's no suggestions from me though, everything has been looking great from my perspective for a while.

[bryguy]

Its okay, but i think it could use more work

[ApophisNL]

Hi all,

Thanks for all the support guys. I just wanted to say that everyone here for the most part is very good at providing constructive criticism.

On to the discussion:

Nice update.

1) We still need yellow numbers on a yellow sun

2) This is a big one. You need to move a few planets/system paths. Right now the system paths between Eallah and Fikwi [Eallah III] AND Bylaris and Secunda [Secunda IV] AND Junas and Kilam [Junas I] go right through planets. To a lesser extent Haig II [this one just arc the system path more].

2b) You have to make sure the system paths clearly connect [Suibor fades in the asteroid belt]. There are lots of these that fade/die before they connect

3) You never gave your thoughts on how to handle asteroids in the system path.

4) move the Invey II mysterious object a few pixels left [and increase the purple shadow]

5) The new earth planet shadows are much easier to distinguish - I personally liked the old deep blue color *sigh*. Also, Haig II might need just a wee bit more shadowing.

6) The new color scheme for earth planets [in the legend] might too closely resemble the blue stars ...

Is there anybody else out there with an opinion?

1 - I'll put one in the next update
2 - The system paths definetly need an update.
3 - For myself, asteroids in the system path are a non-issue. The asteroids are only there to block planet/planet travel and planet/sun travel. The system paths are a "cartographer's aid" since there's no real 'path' in space, the warships are 'jumping' from close proximity to the sun in a line to the next star.
4 - I'm looking to replace the mysterious objects graphics.
5 - I liked the old blue too. But that's easier to see.
6 - I'll look at making the legend less ambiguous.

Its okay, but i think it could use more work

Is there anything in particular you though needed more work?


Should get a new update tomorrow.

[ApophisNL]

I don't like the mysterious object picture. It's bland. And those Stargates look awfully like the ones from the movie/show Stargate. Could that be a copyright issue?

Well they are the stargates from stargate... Guess I'll come up with something unique and non copywrite violating.

[cairnswk]

Its okay, but i think it could use more work

bryguy...so the mapmaker (and others) knows, could you please explain what you mean here with this statement...it is very broad.

[Optimus Prime]

Alright, Coleman has requested an opinion from someone new, so I'll give it a shot. Here we go:

1. As far as the stargates are concerned, I think that the army numbers should go in them for those planets that have them. Otherwise, it just gets a little bit confusing to my eyes. There might also need to be a bit of work done on how to make sure everyone understands that they are indeed stargates. Perhaps a small arrow from the "stargate instructions" to the nearest stargate to eliminate confusion?

2. With planet bonuses, it is clear that the planets with a red shadow give no bonus, and that the ones with a blue shadow give a +2 bonus, but is it ALL other planets that give a +1 bonus, or just some of them? I am still having a hard time distinguishing that fact. I think it is because all of the other planets have a couple different looks. If it is ALL other planets that receive the +1 bonus, might I suggest simply making the legend state: All other planets receive a +1 bonus (or something of the like).

3. I am still having a hard time distinguishing the "II" and "III" labels for the planets within a system. They just seem to be a bit blurry is all. I'm not an expert, so I'm not sure what to do to fix it in the best way.

4. Another stargate question: Has anyone put any thought into making the stargates and the planets they are orbiting separate territories? For example: If I were to hold Eallah III, I would still need to attack and conquer Ellah III Stargate. It's an idea for a way to create a little more gameplay. Perhaps if this was done there could be a separate "stargate bonus" for holding them all. (Simply a thought on gameplay).

5. My last comment has to do with the asteroid belts. I personally think they are a little "thick" and seem to crowd the area between the planet to planet or sun to planet. Could they be narrowed just a little bit without losing the function they have?

[Optimus Prime]

I just noticed something else as well. What are you doing about the fact that there is a chance someone could drop to start the game with all of the +2 planets? That would give them a HUGE advantage over anyone else.

My advice would be to use the new XML feature that allows for at least some of them to always start as neutral territories. Ideally, I think all of the +2 planets should start as neutrals.

Has anyone brought this up before?

[Night Strike]

I don't like the mysterious object picture. It's bland. And those Stargates look awfully like the ones from the movie/show Stargate. Could that be a copyright issue?

Well they are the stargates from stargate... Guess I'll come up with something unique and non copywrite violating.

Wow, I'm a nerd if recognizing that. (Not to mention I love the show!)

4. Another stargate question: Has anyone put any thought into making the stargates and the planets they are orbiting separate territories? For example: If I were to hold Eallah III, I would still need to attack and conquer Ellah III Stargate. It's an idea for a way to create a little more gameplay. Perhaps if this was done there could be a separate "stargate bonus" for holding them all. (Simply a thought on gameplay).

And here is where this map would become more like maxdetjens' Solar System map. One of the reasons I'm paying half-way attention to this one is because I love the Solar System map and it's unique gameplay (e.c. Jump Gate bonuses), and I don't want this to be too similar.

[Aerial Attack]

Wow, I'm a nerd if recognizing that. (Not to mention I love the show!) :lol:

It was a good show - I didn't like the series finale. 5 of the 10 seasons were excellent, 3 were very good, and 2 were them just trudging through. I thought it was obvious based on the name (star gate) what we were talking about. Totally forgot about copyright issues. Oops, gotta get back on topic.

4. Another stargate question: Has anyone put any thought into making the stargates and the planets they are orbiting separate territories? For example: If I were to hold Eallah III, I would still need to attack and conquer Ellah III Stargate. It's an idea for a way to create a little more gameplay. Perhaps if this was done there could be a separate "stargate bonus" for holding them all. (Simply a thought on gameplay).

And here is where this map would become more like maxdetjens' Solar System map. One of the reasons I'm paying half-way attention to this one is because I love the Solar System map and it's unique gameplay (e.c. Jump Gate bonuses), and I don't want this to be too similar.

I agree 100% with this statement by Night Strike. Besides, if we are staying with the star gate theory - almost all the gates are ON the planet. There was the occasional gate on a ship. I don't think it was until an Atlantis Puddle Jumper went to a gate near a Wraith Hive ship planet that we saw a gate in space. Those are few and far between. More likely if it is "in space" - it is because it is inside a moving ship.

I am posting this before Apophis's next update, but here's his next assignment. I am guessing that the version we've seen is the large one. You need to create a small version (600 x 450) - even if it's only resizing the current one. People need to be able to comment on the fonts and spacing issues - as well as army circles on both sizes.

[ApophisNL]

Here we go:



-Changed the Star Lanes
-Shrunk the asteroids
-Changed the planet number font
-Updated the legend
-Changed the mysterious object to a 'space-time tear'
-Changed the stargates to a my own drawing
-Moved a lot of planets around to try and make the star lanes clear.

The stargates are not claimable and do not give a bonus for controlling them. They are a part of the planet, just like the tears and wormholes do not give bonuses.

I like the idea of making all the earth-likes inhabited by neutrals.

I'm waiting until all the work is done on the large map before going to the small one.

[Aerial Attack]

Nice update. You covered a lot of things with that one.

1) Unfortunately you can't wait until the Large Map is complete before figuring out the Small Map. Things could be found that affect playability/legibility and need to be updated on both maps. I know - updating both is going to be a pain in the rear. Can someone else (a mod?) please weigh in on this?

2) This is just my opinion, but I liked the curved Star Lanes. Now they look too much like Tinker Toys [Fiddle Sticks for newer kids] or Zolo blocks or maybe even DNA. The other way seemed less stiff/stilted ... more fun?

3) I liked the size of the old asteroids. But with almost every system having some, they were a bit over done. The new size is decent [just able to be made out]. But, they'll truly be specks on the Small Map. Find a compromise between the new and old sizes (maybe just increase the new 10-15%?).

3a) The asteroid belt in Qyis is nearly indistinguishable [overlaps the pixels of the background picture]. Suibor is fine, though it could be made just a touch more prominent.

4) You forgot to mention that you put the yellow numbers is Qyis - I think it looks fine ... anyone else?

5) Text in General. Are you being consistent in using the same style font for everything and the same sizes for matching types (e.g. instructions, legend, system names, planet names, etc.). It looks to me like there might be some differences.

6) I really like your new star gates! The Space Time tear looks a little like the worm hole. But, it is definitely an improvement over the mysterious object

7) No one else has said anything about the system bonuses, so I guess they are fine as is.

8) Planet names - I like the switching between left and right depending on which side of a system the planet is on. Devi 2 needs the name to the right of the planet [it's on the right side of the system] and Junas 2 is close enough to the center to be either - although it really should be moved a few pixels to the right [same with Haig 2]

9) Legend/Instructional Text. I liked it with 1 line of text per planet type. I don't know that you need the "armies per turn" statement - it's pretty much implied by the +X or -X designators. Here's my take:

Red Gas Giant Planets (+0)
Blue Earth-Like Planets (+2)
All Other Planets (+1)

9a) Less text is better - in case you need to increase font size. "Connect" could be used instead of "Allow Travel." But, I wasn't sure if you put it that way originally for a reason.

"Asteroids block travel between affected Planets" or "Asteroids between Planets block travel"
"Asteroids block travel between Sun and affected Planet" or "Asteroids between Sun and Planet block travel"
"Wormholes allow travel to each other"
"(Mysterious )Tears in space-time allow travel to each other"
"(Star )Gated Planets allow travel to each other"

10) Instructional Arrows. I don't really like that idea, but I can see how someone might not realize that the blue disc next to Suibor 2 is a star gate [move Suibor 2 up and to the left - move the text up to match]. The Asteroids between Haig and Haig 3 should be extended to reach the asteroid text - same with Asomin asteroids [move the text up slightly to be centered]

11) Neutral Starts. I like the +2 planets being neutral too. Otherwise, in a 1 v 1 someone could start with 5 or 6 of those, while the other player has 9 or 10 of the +0 planets/stars. Another possibility for the XML ... [I think yeti_c is looking into this] Assigning a max/min number of territories of a type a player can be given on drop?

WOW, that was a lot more than I intended to write.

Let me just finish by saying you are doing a great job with all this work. Keep it up.

[Optimus Prime]

I was also a fan of the more curved lines between systems. I think you should go back to that looks, but with the new color that you used for this update.

You need to lowercase the "T" in Them at the end of the sentences telling what Asteroid belts do. It shouldn't be capitalized. I'm also in support of changing "allows travel" to "connect." I think it would work much better.

As far as system bonuses are concerned, I'll see if I can find time to look at them and give an opinion to go along with Aerial Attacks either later today or tomorrow.

[Aerial Attack]

I see that you have the old blue shadowing for earth planets in the legend.

Can you convert a couple of Earth planets back to this (for comparison sake) and make sure 1 of them has a star gate.

The biggest problem with the new Earth shadow is that it so closely resembles the outer edge of the blue Stars. Maybe change the border for the blue stars to purple? Dark blue would hide the incoming Star Lane.

If we go with the new shadowing, the legend needs to be updated as well.

Another reason for less text is more room to move things around, in case you need to move a system slightly.

[ApophisNL]

New Version:



- Added old curved star lanes, but revamped them
- Changed lots of text
- Moved some stuff around

I really don't want to start the small one until we're pretty well done this one. It's not going to be a straight shrinkage to 600x450. I'm going to move stuff closer together and only shrink as little as possible.

There are only 2 fonts. The sci-fi one is used for the title and planet names. The squarish one is used for everything else.

Thanks for the comment on the stargates, I think they came out pretty good, as did the tears.

[Gnome]

to be honest...I don't really like your stargates
They look to flat in you 3D world...
I'm following this map from the beginning and your doing a great job
All your upgrades are really good...But the stargate isn't that great...