Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">It does work this way for upgrades, but it can run havoc with AI. Remember, long time ago there was a HUGE problem with AI always using ionic drives even if much better drives were discovered. The reason was that than every drive class started with roman numerical I instead of continuing older drive numbers. IMHO, the accurate numbering is extremely important as a profilactic measure for AI.

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

I just tested the Krill with inaccurate Plasma Missile numbering..they still used the correct missile.

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

If it were picking the smallest PD component, then it would use Self-Defense Cannon, which is smaller than the PD Beam. If someone figures out what's determining the choice, let me know. I'm sure there's a way to do it though, and will figure it out if no one does first.

As for planetary shield platforms, one nice thing about the really tough troops is that they tend to get destroyed after weapon platforms. If you made a really strong shield plaform with phased shield component, though, it might just be the Last thing to go before population and facilities, but would not protect weaker units, such as platforms with weapons, units based at the planet, infantry, etc.

PvK

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

Why not ask MM directly about this apperently very confusing issue ? He should know a bit how the hell the hard-coded AI algorythm works !

I would ask myself but I suspect that more respected members of our community might have better chances for prompt response

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

I thought it'd be easy but ya, it's lookin' more mysterious after a test. I tried offering it a weapon with a higher to-hit, a lower listing position, and a higher Roman numeral, but nope, it just really likes the PD Beam. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

I'll ask MM.

PvK

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

Can be a higher research cost for PDB be a clue ? At least it has 2 tech requirements compared to 1 for PDC.

May be constraction cost is a final factor ? I think it was the root of "ion engine bug"

[ 11 May 2002, 00:44: Message edited by: oleg ]

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

I just tested construction cost - nope. Haven't tried research requirements. It may be a combination of things. I'm sure it's doable - just have to find the trick.

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

I found a way to do this over the weekend. Apparently, for some components and facilities (e.g. Point Defense, Organics Generation, Life Support), the AI chooses between them based on their tech level requirements.

By listing some of the same tech requirements twice or thrice, the desirability of those components of facilities can be emphasized, without changing the actual requirements. Pretty spiffy, although it doesn't work for everything (e.g. ECM and Sensors seem to get the AI to actually look for the highest rating).

PvK

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">An A.I. that doesn't care if it's "Crew" is dead or suffocated but care enough to fit the ship with the highest sensor pack that the empire has to offer.

I guess that's going to be included in the next Version?

Re: Proportions mod Version 2.2 released
 

In 2.2, the AI uses life support as they become available. First normal life support, then basic life support, then hardenned life support. It also chooses the highest-rated electronic warfare components it can.

In 2.3, I currently have it so that once it develops basic life support, it stays with that, because going to all hardenned means its ships all become very expensive. I see this as pretty reasonable and efficient, but if people really want to see the AI doing different things with life support ... let me know. The electronic warfare choices aren't going to change. AI modders should simply have the AI stop researching at the desired level of insanity. The only issue is with High (all) tech games, which would take a lot of work to make the AI any good at anyway, for a number of reasons.

PvK