<![CDATA[Blue Sun - Community Forums

<![CDATA[Blue Sun - Community Forums - All Forums]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/ Mon, 21 May 2012 05:12:04 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Forum Lock-up]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=1541 Mon, 30 May 2011 13:37:16 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=1541 I will surely take up the project once again when Ill have more time. The game costed me way too much effort and the progress is too far to just abandon it now.

Due to lack of forum activity and bot accounts infestation I am locking up to forum leaving it as read-only until I can continue working on "Blue Sun".

If anyone wishes to contact me regarding my project please feel free to send me an email.]]> I will surely take up the project once again when Ill have more time. The game costed me way too much effort and the progress is too far to just abandon it now.

Due to lack of forum activity and bot accounts infestation I am locking up to forum leaving it as read-only until I can continue working on "Blue Sun".

If anyone wishes to contact me regarding my project please feel free to send me an email.]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.368]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=104 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:39:26 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=104

Adding "Sabotage Squad" unit and its abilities.

Investigating and possibly fixing synchronisation errors.

Game balancing and tech-tree or statistics changes.

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.368 here.

Blue_Sun_-_alpha_v.0.368.exe - Game file.
The Four Planets.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each starts with only a Planet. Resource asteroids are placed in map corners.
settings.ini - Saved settings file.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.
hotkeys.cfg - File to store hotkey settings.
Blue_Sun_-_Griffeon_tech-tree_alpha_v.0.368.jpg - image containing the tech-tree for Griffeonian race.

New units and abilities (including planets).
Researches.
Lots of others Ive lost track of.

- None -

Lots

"Sabotage Squad" is not implemented yet.
Synchronisation error sometimes showing up during a multiplayer match.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.242 is here.]]>

Adding "Sabotage Squad" unit and its abilities.

Investigating and possibly fixing synchronisation errors.

Game balancing and tech-tree or statistics changes.

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.368 here.

Blue_Sun_-_alpha_v.0.368.exe - Game file.
The Four Planets.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each starts with only a Planet. Resource asteroids are placed in map corners.
settings.ini - Saved settings file.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.
hotkeys.cfg - File to store hotkey settings.
Blue_Sun_-_Griffeon_tech-tree_alpha_v.0.368.jpg - image containing the tech-tree for Griffeonian race.

New units and abilities (including planets).
Researches.
Lots of others Ive lost track of.

- None -

Lots

"Sabotage Squad" is not implemented yet.
Synchronisation error sometimes showing up during a multiplayer match.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.242 is here.]]> <![CDATA[Alpha 0.242]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=103 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:13:28 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=103
Algorithms of calculating estimated damage during attack were pretty messy since last time.
In general, I still wasnt sure, what kind of information about enemy units will be visible at all times, and which will require advanced detection or systems scanning.
In the end last version had really bad damage estimation.
I fixed this problem in version 0.242 and Im releasing it since damage estimation is important.
New version also includes some small nice changes and additions, including a little better menu animation.

"Blue Sun" alpha 0.242 download and change log is here.]]>
Algorithms of calculating estimated damage during attack were pretty messy since last time.
In general, I still wasnt sure, what kind of information about enemy units will be visible at all times, and which will require advanced detection or systems scanning.
In the end last version had really bad damage estimation.
I fixed this problem in version 0.242 and Im releasing it since damage estimation is important.
New version also includes some small nice changes and additions, including a little better menu animation.

"Blue Sun" alpha 0.242 download and change log is here.]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.242]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=102 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:01:29 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=102

Adding missing unit actions.

Adding new units.

Implementing input detail control.

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.242 here

BS_alpha_v.0.242.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleets for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.

Most of the unit actions should now automatically cancel when turn time runs our during multiplayer match.
Advanced Probe got a new ability to scan enemy systems.
Displaying enemy units' statistics in window when clicked.

Fixed the menu animation a little to make it look nicer.
Improved attack algorithms.
Switched around, between informations about enemy units that are always visible and which require additional scanning or detection.

Fixed a calculation bug in damage estimation when the target enemy has little HP.

Game displayes an error if exited before starting the first turn.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.
Statistices and unit actions still need changes. They are simply not final yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Correct behaviour of units in troublesome movement situations.
Stability of multiplayer matches.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.236 is here.]]>

Adding missing unit actions.

Adding new units.

Implementing input detail control.

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.242 here

BS_alpha_v.0.242.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleets for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.

Most of the unit actions should now automatically cancel when turn time runs our during multiplayer match.
Advanced Probe got a new ability to scan enemy systems.
Displaying enemy units' statistics in window when clicked.

Fixed the menu animation a little to make it look nicer.
Improved attack algorithms.
Switched around, between informations about enemy units that are always visible and which require additional scanning or detection.

Fixed a calculation bug in damage estimation when the target enemy has little HP.

Game displayes an error if exited before starting the first turn.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.
Statistices and unit actions still need changes. They are simply not final yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Correct behaviour of units in troublesome movement situations.
Stability of multiplayer matches.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.236 is here.]]> <![CDATA[Bot boot]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=101 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:51:23 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=101 Of course, there is nothing wrong with it. I would actually be very happy knowing someone is interested in my project.
The thing that worries me are the random names of the new users and the fact that most of them have spent no time logged in.
I'm suspecting those new accounts to be bots or spammers.

I decided to perform a clean up of the suspicious forum members.

I do not know the forum user personally.
The user will not notify me in any way, nor post at the forum.
The user will have no time spent logged in on the forum (as written in his/her profile).

I do not know the forum user personally.
The user will not notify me in any way, nor post at the forum.
The user will have no time spent logged in on the forum (as written in his/her profile).

If any of the above rules doesn't apply to you then your account is safe.

Currently the deadline to save an account is a month.
Next month I will start notifying the endangered users via email, giving a second deadline and a last chance.
Those users who won't give me a response even after email notification will have their forum accounts deleted.]]> <![CDATA[Forum and game are still alive.]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=100 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:17:59 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=100
This project is not dead and it won't be until I clearly announce that on this forum.

I know that releases usually take an age and that there is no activity on the forum.
That's why I wanted to make it clear that the game is still in development.

If it comes to the forum then I wouldn't say its dead. Instead I'd say that it just hasn't been fully born yet.
Forum needs the game being developed much further, before it can get some more activity. Until then I'm just gonna use it as my announcement board.]]>
This project is not dead and it won't be until I clearly announce that on this forum.

I know that releases usually take an age and that there is no activity on the forum.
That's why I wanted to make it clear that the game is still in development.

If it comes to the forum then I wouldn't say its dead. Instead I'd say that it just hasn't been fully born yet.
Forum needs the game being developed much further, before it can get some more activity. Until then I'm just gonna use it as my announcement board.]]> <![CDATA[Alpha 0.236]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=99 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:02:55 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=99
Actually I was planning to hold on with the next release even longer, until I had some more features done.
I was hoping to finish all the missing units and actions of the first race, add some "terrain effects" and balance out the statistics.
The release is out already though, as it took way too long and it would probably take much longer still. Besides, I managed to fix quite a few bugs and problems since last version and a few of those were really nasty.

Anyway, the version is out. Don't expect fireworks, but 0.236 brings lots of improvements and more stability.

Download new alpha version 0.236 here]]>
Actually I was planning to hold on with the next release even longer, until I had some more features done.
I was hoping to finish all the missing units and actions of the first race, add some "terrain effects" and balance out the statistics.
The release is out already though, as it took way too long and it would probably take much longer still. Besides, I managed to fix quite a few bugs and problems since last version and a few of those were really nasty.

Anyway, the version is out. Don't expect fireworks, but 0.236 brings lots of improvements and more stability.

Download new alpha version 0.236 here]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.236]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=98 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 01:08:01 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=98 here

BS_alpha_v.0.236.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.

Information about docked units displayed in unit description window.
Changes to the unit damage algorithms.
Displaying unit's armor values on the interface near the unit and cursor coordinates (placement is temporary) and in description box.
Advanced detection field no longer allows viewing enemy unit's statistics. There will be a separate special ability for Advanced Probes to scan enemy units.
Changes to game options window.
Four default setting schemes (which can be edited).
Loading options from chosen INI files.
Detecting INI settings file version. Loading only compatible options.
Option to adjust detail and complexity of in-game descriptions.

Changes to unit actions and vectors descriptions. They are now clearer and more consistent.
Units now scan fields around them also during movement. Previously units only scanned fields around them at the destination position.
Units stop in flight after detecting an enemy.
Detected enemy units remain visible until the end of player's turn.
Displaying of fog of war works faster.
Huge speed up on preparing unit's movement options.
End of turn time message will now only auto-confirm itself during a multiplayer match and not during skirmish.
Rearranged unit actions for some units.

Fixed synchronisation error occuring when a unit was moved near the edge of the map during a multiplayer match.
Fixed lots of bugs in various troublesome movement situations, e.g. meeting a cloaked enemy unit, flying over undetected enemy units, detecting enemy units during movement etc.
Fog of war is updated after launching a produced unit.
Mines number is no longer displayed if a visible unit is placed on them.
Description box no longer appears if hovered above invisible resource asteroids.

Game displayes an error if exited before starting the first turn.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.
Statistices and unit actions still need changes. They are simply not final yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Correct behaviour of units in troublesome movement situations.
Stability of multiplayer matches.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.
Checking possible slow down after running the game for some time and/or running the game again after closing it.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.201 is here.]]> here

BS_alpha_v.0.236.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.
default1.ini, default2.ini, default3.ini, default4.ini - Four default setting scheme files.

Information about docked units displayed in unit description window.
Changes to the unit damage algorithms.
Displaying unit's armor values on the interface near the unit and cursor coordinates (placement is temporary) and in description box.
Advanced detection field no longer allows viewing enemy unit's statistics. There will be a separate special ability for Advanced Probes to scan enemy units.
Changes to game options window.
Four default setting schemes (which can be edited).
Loading options from chosen INI files.
Detecting INI settings file version. Loading only compatible options.
Option to adjust detail and complexity of in-game descriptions.

Changes to unit actions and vectors descriptions. They are now clearer and more consistent.
Units now scan fields around them also during movement. Previously units only scanned fields around them at the destination position.
Units stop in flight after detecting an enemy.
Detected enemy units remain visible until the end of player's turn.
Displaying of fog of war works faster.
Huge speed up on preparing unit's movement options.
End of turn time message will now only auto-confirm itself during a multiplayer match and not during skirmish.
Rearranged unit actions for some units.

Fixed synchronisation error occuring when a unit was moved near the edge of the map during a multiplayer match.
Fixed lots of bugs in various troublesome movement situations, e.g. meeting a cloaked enemy unit, flying over undetected enemy units, detecting enemy units during movement etc.
Fog of war is updated after launching a produced unit.
Mines number is no longer displayed if a visible unit is placed on them.
Description box no longer appears if hovered above invisible resource asteroids.

Game displayes an error if exited before starting the first turn.
Input detail setting has no effect in game yet.
Statistices and unit actions still need changes. They are simply not final yet.

Clarity of unit actions and vector descriptions.
Correct behaviour of units in troublesome movement situations.
Stability of multiplayer matches.
Performing actions by units. Due to recent changes there could be some minor bugs left.
Checking possible slow down after running the game for some time and/or running the game again after closing it.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.201 is here.]]> <![CDATA[Multiplayer match sign-ups]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=97 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 01:31:45 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=97 Basically its a list of people who can be contacted to play the game.

Multiplayer match sign-ups topic]]> Basically its a list of people who can be contacted to play the game.

Multiplayer match sign-ups topic]]> <![CDATA["Blue Sun" multiplayer matches sign up list]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=96 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 01:24:41 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=96

Just post below, if you would like to find someone to play with.
(Guests on the forum may sign up as well.)

To make meeting up for a match easier please enclose the following information:

Preferred form of contact. (E-mail, messanger, forum PM, etc.)
More or less how often are you available and willing to play "Blue Sun".
Your time zone.

Preferred form of contact. (E-mail, messanger, forum PM, etc.)
More or less how often are you available and willing to play "Blue Sun".
Your time zone.

After signing up, please consider contacting someone from the list yourself.

Please read this topic for help running the game multiplayer.

Note:
This is only a topic for sign-ups. Please do not discuss here.
If you have any questions, please post a new topic.]]> <![CDATA[Alpha 0.201]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=95 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:05:36 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=95 I believe, I have fixed the cause of the synchronisation error appearing frequently during a multiplayer match.
Perhaps this time, the game is all ready to be tested in a real multiplayer match.
I've tried playing it with a few people and noticed no bigger problems so far.
If everything works fine, then I think it would be time to test general game expirience. Simply put: is "Blue Sun" fun to play?
Please feel free to contact me and ask for a match.
I would only recommend to read the game tutorials and get to know the game before seriously playing it.

Download new alpha version 0.201 here.]]> I believe, I have fixed the cause of the synchronisation error appearing frequently during a multiplayer match.
Perhaps this time, the game is all ready to be tested in a real multiplayer match.
I've tried playing it with a few people and noticed no bigger problems so far.
If everything works fine, then I think it would be time to test general game expirience. Simply put: is "Blue Sun" fun to play?
Please feel free to contact me and ask for a match.
I would only recommend to read the game tutorials and get to know the game before seriously playing it.

Download new alpha version 0.201 here.]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.201]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=94 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 22:49:42 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=94 here

BS_alpha_v.0.201.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.

Nothing

Fixed synchronisation error when canceling RU transfer during a multiplayer match.
Fixed the "Please wait. Player is making his move." message remaining after dropping a player from multiplayer match.
Fixed a bug dropping players when, while setting up a multiplayer match, players were not assigned to consecutive positions.
Fixed a bug allowing unit to move outside the map edge.
Fixed a bug allowing unit to fly into undiscovered RU asteroids.
Fixed error message showing up somtimes in production window when selecting "Microships" category.
Fixed fog of war not updating after a unit is launched.
Fixed player ping not being updated in a multiplayer lobby when typing a chat message.
When hosting or joining a multiplayer match, player's name can no longer consist of spaces only.
Fixed F3 hotkey for unit action that was placed instead of F2.
Selecting a vector no longer blocks any other input. Not pressing a vector during vector selection simply cancels it.
Fixed a missing bottom fog of war fragment when the beggining of player's turn message was displayed.
Turn's time limit display now flashes when the turn time is below 15 seconds.
Beggining of turn and time limit's end messages are now time limited to automatically end player's turn.

Moving units along the map edges causes synch errors.
Setting turn time limit to 0 (no time limit) blocks the game from starting.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.
The game doesnt detect the end of a match nor player's defeat yet.

Multiplayer matches and connection.
Special abilities or unit actions.
Game expirience.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.194 is here.]]> here

BS_alpha_v.0.201.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.

Nothing

Fixed synchronisation error when canceling RU transfer during a multiplayer match.
Fixed the "Please wait. Player is making his move." message remaining after dropping a player from multiplayer match.
Fixed a bug dropping players when, while setting up a multiplayer match, players were not assigned to consecutive positions.
Fixed a bug allowing unit to move outside the map edge.
Fixed a bug allowing unit to fly into undiscovered RU asteroids.
Fixed error message showing up somtimes in production window when selecting "Microships" category.
Fixed fog of war not updating after a unit is launched.
Fixed player ping not being updated in a multiplayer lobby when typing a chat message.
When hosting or joining a multiplayer match, player's name can no longer consist of spaces only.
Fixed F3 hotkey for unit action that was placed instead of F2.
Selecting a vector no longer blocks any other input. Not pressing a vector during vector selection simply cancels it.
Fixed a missing bottom fog of war fragment when the beggining of player's turn message was displayed.
Turn's time limit display now flashes when the turn time is below 15 seconds.
Beggining of turn and time limit's end messages are now time limited to automatically end player's turn.

Moving units along the map edges causes synch errors.
Setting turn time limit to 0 (no time limit) blocks the game from starting.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.
The game doesnt detect the end of a match nor player's defeat yet.

Multiplayer matches and connection.
Special abilities or unit actions.
Game expirience.

Previous version - "Blue Sun" alpha 0.194 is here.]]> <![CDATA[Scientists group reset]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=93 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:18:50 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=93 Currently, practically nobody but me posts, and only some people read the forum to check my progress.
It is nobody's fault. I simply started out the forum a bit too early.
I don't regret it as this is a great way to announce information about my game to those people who are interested.
Still, there won't be any activity here until I get the game to be fun to play. Currently it still lacks working multiplayer and AI opponent.

Anyway I got a bit off-topic here.
I decided to remove the priviliages of "Scientists" group members.
Please do not feel offended. I do this, because the group was started too early in the first place.
The game updates are not frequent enough, and as a result even the "Scientists" group, meant to be my beta-testers, have become inactive.
The group will be started anew, and this time the priviliges will be given to people really interested and devoted.
Of course, those who are currently "Scientists" can join the group again, but will just need to contact me to let me know they still do want to beta-test the game.

To become a member of "Scientists" please sign up in this topic.]]> Currently, practically nobody but me posts, and only some people read the forum to check my progress.
It is nobody's fault. I simply started out the forum a bit too early.
I don't regret it as this is a great way to announce information about my game to those people who are interested.
Still, there won't be any activity here until I get the game to be fun to play. Currently it still lacks working multiplayer and AI opponent.

Anyway I got a bit off-topic here.
I decided to remove the priviliages of "Scientists" group members.
Please do not feel offended. I do this, because the group was started too early in the first place.
The game updates are not frequent enough, and as a result even the "Scientists" group, meant to be my beta-testers, have become inactive.
The group will be started anew, and this time the priviliges will be given to people really interested and devoted.
Of course, those who are currently "Scientists" can join the group again, but will just need to contact me to let me know they still do want to beta-test the game.

To become a member of "Scientists" please sign up in this topic.]]> <![CDATA["Scientists" recruitment list]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=92 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:14:29 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=92
Joining this group simply means that you are willing to help me out with my game.
There are a few ways you can help me out. Becoming a "Scientist" doesn't even, necessarily require you to be active on the forum.
Before all, "Scientists" are people who I can contact, and ask for beta-test matches of "Blue Sun".
Of course "Scientists" are not limited to doing just that. Having testing matches without me is equally appreciated.
With the recent improvement and fixes in "Blue Sun's" multiplayer functionality I will be in need of game-test matches.
Besides the mentioned activities, "Scientists" may also seek out the problems or come up with the new ideas for "Blue Sun" on their own.

Simply put: "Scientists" are people who help me out hunting the game bugs and making the game better in any way. They are ready to contribute their time and effort for that goal.
If that is your intention then you may sign up to becoming a "Scientist".

When signing up please use the form described below. Just use it in your post filling in the proper information.
Please do not sign up in this topic more than once! It is not needed nor usefull. Just signing up once is enough.

Sign up form:

Contribution method (select one or more):
1. I can be contacted for beta-test match. (Please mention preferred contact method.)
2. I will perform test matches and test game features on my own.
3. I will contribute suggestions and new ideas to the game.
4. Other. (Please describe.)
Why are you interested in the "Blue Sun" as a game project?
(Answer.)
Do you have any expirience as a programmer or game beta-tester?
(Answer and please elaborate.)
How much time can and will you want to spent helping out "Blue Sun" development? (Select one option.)
1. I'm free and willing most of the time.
2. I should be available often.
3. I may lack either time or will, but once in a while I can help out.
4. Describe in your own way your availability.]]>
Joining this group simply means that you are willing to help me out with my game.
There are a few ways you can help me out. Becoming a "Scientist" doesn't even, necessarily require you to be active on the forum.
Before all, "Scientists" are people who I can contact, and ask for beta-test matches of "Blue Sun".
Of course "Scientists" are not limited to doing just that. Having testing matches without me is equally appreciated.
With the recent improvement and fixes in "Blue Sun's" multiplayer functionality I will be in need of game-test matches.
Besides the mentioned activities, "Scientists" may also seek out the problems or come up with the new ideas for "Blue Sun" on their own.

Simply put: "Scientists" are people who help me out hunting the game bugs and making the game better in any way. They are ready to contribute their time and effort for that goal.
If that is your intention then you may sign up to becoming a "Scientist".

When signing up please use the form described below. Just use it in your post filling in the proper information.
Please do not sign up in this topic more than once! It is not needed nor usefull. Just signing up once is enough.

Sign up form:

Contribution method (select one or more):
1. I can be contacted for beta-test match. (Please mention preferred contact method.)
2. I will perform test matches and test game features on my own.
3. I will contribute suggestions and new ideas to the game.
4. Other. (Please describe.)
Why are you interested in the "Blue Sun" as a game project?
(Answer.)
Do you have any expirience as a programmer or game beta-tester?
(Answer and please elaborate.)
How much time can and will you want to spent helping out "Blue Sun" development? (Select one option.)
1. I'm free and willing most of the time.
2. I should be available often.
3. I may lack either time or will, but once in a while I can help out.
4. Describe in your own way your availability.]]> <![CDATA[Alpha 0.194 - Small update]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=91 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:31:59 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=91 Just another small bug fix and a new map for 4 players.
Updated version is here.]]> Just another small bug fix and a new map for 4 players.
Updated version is here.]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.194]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=90 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:57:38 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=90 Whats new:

Made a new map file for four players.

Fixed a bug that caused fog of war to cover whole map if it was disabled in a match.

It happened a few times that the game had synchronisation errors at random moments.
A few times during a multiplayer match a message to end player's turn got lost causing all players to wait for the other to end his turn.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.

Multiplayer matches. I would like to ask for special attention to possible synchronisation errors and "end turn" bug.
If one of those happen, please take note of the circumstances (what was done at that moment, additional effects, etc.).

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.194 here

BS_alpha_v.0.194.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.

]]> Whats new:

Made a new map file for four players.

Fixed a bug that caused fog of war to cover whole map if it was disabled in a match.

It happened a few times that the game had synchronisation errors at random moments.
A few times during a multiplayer match a message to end player's turn got lost causing all players to wait for the other to end his turn.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.

Multiplayer matches. I would like to ask for special attention to possible synchronisation errors and "end turn" bug.
If one of those happen, please take note of the circumstances (what was done at that moment, additional effects, etc.).

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.194 here

BS_alpha_v.0.194.exe - Game file.
firstmap.bsm - Example map for 2 players. It includes Pre-Deployed game mode with prepared fleet for both players.
cornered.bsm - Simple map file for 4 players, each with a Shipyard and mining operation.

]]> <![CDATA[Alpha 0.193 out]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=89 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:48:12 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=89 Nothing new added. Only bug fixes.
Those fixes were pretty important though as the bugs caused the game to not work in multiplayer (yet again).
I did some testing before this release and fixed all problems that shown up.
As a result I believe this version to be rather stable and you should have no problems playing it online.

I did however had some issues with multiplayer connection later during a match.
I'm not sure yet what is the problem. I'll be looking into that matter and I would greatly appreciate any help with finding the cause.
More information in the download thread (linked below).

New "Blue Sun" alpha version can be found here.]]> Nothing new added. Only bug fixes.
Those fixes were pretty important though as the bugs caused the game to not work in multiplayer (yet again).
I did some testing before this release and fixed all problems that shown up.
As a result I believe this version to be rather stable and you should have no problems playing it online.

I did however had some issues with multiplayer connection later during a match.
I'm not sure yet what is the problem. I'll be looking into that matter and I would greatly appreciate any help with finding the cause.
More information in the download thread (linked below).

New "Blue Sun" alpha version can be found here.]]> <![CDATA[Blue Sun - alpha 0.193]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=88 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:41:28 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=88 Whats new:

Disabled CSF and Natives from race selection when setting up a match. Those races are not implemented yet and having them selectable was misleading.

Added displaying launching AP cost shown in launched unit selection window and on launch vectors.

Fixed bugs when passing over a cloaked enemy unit.
Fixed synchornisation error when passing over a cloaked enemy unit.
Fixed synchronisation errors when laying mines.
Fixed targeting invisible enemies bug.
Fixed bug limiting unit movement after being moved once.
Fixed match option changes not visible for joining players when setting up multiplayer match.
Fixed bug causing shields to be visible through the fog of war.
Fixed "Neutral player defeated" messages after killing a unit.
Fixed error messages appearing after killing fighter class units.
Fixed a few other error messages.
Fixed AP cost bugs when launching units.
Gave Collectors some EU so they can fire Small Laser. They couldn't before.

It happened a few times that the game had synchronisation errors at random moments.
A few times during a multiplayer match a message to end player's turn got lost causing all players to wait for the other to end his turn.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.

Multiplayer matches. I would like to ask for special attention to possible synchronisation errors and "end turn" bug.
If one of those happen, please take note of the circumstances (what was done at that moment, additional effects, etc.).

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.193 here

BS_alpha_v.0.193.exe - game file
firstmap.bsm - map file

]]> Whats new:

Disabled CSF and Natives from race selection when setting up a match. Those races are not implemented yet and having them selectable was misleading.

Added displaying launching AP cost shown in launched unit selection window and on launch vectors.

Fixed bugs when passing over a cloaked enemy unit.
Fixed synchornisation error when passing over a cloaked enemy unit.
Fixed synchronisation errors when laying mines.
Fixed targeting invisible enemies bug.
Fixed bug limiting unit movement after being moved once.
Fixed match option changes not visible for joining players when setting up multiplayer match.
Fixed bug causing shields to be visible through the fog of war.
Fixed "Neutral player defeated" messages after killing a unit.
Fixed error messages appearing after killing fighter class units.
Fixed a few other error messages.
Fixed AP cost bugs when launching units.
Gave Collectors some EU so they can fire Small Laser. They couldn't before.

It happened a few times that the game had synchronisation errors at random moments.
A few times during a multiplayer match a message to end player's turn got lost causing all players to wait for the other to end his turn.
When setting up multiplayer match, choosing a color or selecting map file causes communication delay error. Just press "Wait" if it happens.

Multiplayer matches. I would like to ask for special attention to possible synchronisation errors and "end turn" bug.
If one of those happen, please take note of the circumstances (what was done at that moment, additional effects, etc.).

Download "Blue Sun" alpha version 0.193 here

BS_alpha_v.0.193.exe - game file
firstmap.bsm - map file

]]> <![CDATA[New release! Finally!]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=80 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:15:12 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=80 Whole multiplayer mechanism has been replaced.
It should now be much easier to get a game session across the internet going.

Unfortunately I havent done much more than that in this update.
There is no added content but bug fixes, small improvements and another units rebalancing.
Still this version may be a huge step forward with "Blue Sun" finally getting a working multiplayer and proper unit balancing (previous one had some bad mistakes), thus becoming "practically" playable.

Blue Sun Alpha v.0.184
( As you can see from the version number I did worked quite a lot on this. Theres a jump from v.0.142 to v.0.184. )

To make it easier to play "Blue Sun" multiplayer I have prepared Hamachi network meant for testing the game.
Join it here if you are interested.

One more good news is that I prepared tutorials that will teach the basics of playing "Blue Sun".
I hope they will help as some people complained that the game seems too difficult.
Tutorials section.]]> Whole multiplayer mechanism has been replaced.
It should now be much easier to get a game session across the internet going.

Unfortunately I havent done much more than that in this update.
There is no added content but bug fixes, small improvements and another units rebalancing.
Still this version may be a huge step forward with "Blue Sun" finally getting a working multiplayer and proper unit balancing (previous one had some bad mistakes), thus becoming "practically" playable.

Blue Sun Alpha v.0.184
( As you can see from the version number I did worked quite a lot on this. Theres a jump from v.0.142 to v.0.184. )

To make it easier to play "Blue Sun" multiplayer I have prepared Hamachi network meant for testing the game.
Join it here if you are interested.

One more good news is that I prepared tutorials that will teach the basics of playing "Blue Sun".
I hope they will help as some people complained that the game seems too difficult.
Tutorials section.]]> <![CDATA["Blue Sun" tutorials - Part 5: Miscellaneous Notes]]> http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=79 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:01:42 +0000 http://bsforum.dark-gaming.net/showthread.php?tid=79

Even if a unit recovers Health Points (HP) each round, it will never recover back its number of ships.
Unit will not recover more HP than the maximum HP of the number of ships left.
Example: Unit having 5 ships left out of 10 will not recover more than up to half of its HP bar.

Fighter class units have no ammunition (AU) recovery.
Their ammo supply must be refilled by bigger support units, e.g. a Carrier.

Some units like Transporter or Carrier can dock fighters inside.
You can use this to carry them around keeping them safe or you can surprise your enemy suddenly launching them.

Use unit description toggle button to see different kinds of information about your unit.
[Image: descriptionscroll.png]

You can view statuses that the selected unit is afflicted with by switching to one of the units description page.
[Image: conditions.png]

]]>

Even if a unit recovers Health Points (HP) each round, it will never recover back its number of ships.
Unit will not recover more HP than the maximum HP of the number of ships left.
Example: Unit having 5 ships left out of 10 will not recover more than up to half of its HP bar.

Fighter class units have no ammunition (AU) recovery.
Their ammo supply must be refilled by bigger support units, e.g. a Carrier.

Some units like Transporter or Carrier can dock fighters inside.
You can use this to carry them around keeping them safe or you can surprise your enemy suddenly launching them.

Use unit description toggle button to see different kinds of information about your unit.
[Image: descriptionscroll.png]

You can view statuses that the selected unit is afflicted with by switching to one of the units description page.
[Image: conditions.png]

]]>