SEIV: Play by Web

[javaslinger]

What is the difference between this play by web and the PBEM helper?

Thanks

Ken

[jimbob55]

The PBW system runs the turns on the game /web server. It used to execute the game turn as soon as everyone had uploaded their plr files. It doesn't seem to do that anymore.
Once the turn is processed, it's auto sent to all players to respond when they can.

Advantages : The host/ starting player doesn't have to worry about files and such. There's one upload and that's it. Offers a central 'meeting room' for players to get together and talk about the type of multiplayer game they want.

Disadvantages: If a player fails to upload the plr file, the game goes on hold until they do or the host executes the turn with the AI playing the missing player's turn.

The PBW allows some features that PBEM helper doesn't / can't yet: Forums for all registered players.
As it is still in Beta, developed by some enthusiasts, it isn't finished yet and is developing 'in an organic fashion'. Join the fun and join the games. Help make it work the way you want it to work.

I haven't played with PBEM helper, so I can't say which is better / best.

[Fuerte]

The main difference between Play By Web and PBEM helper is that Play By Web automates the server and PBEM helper automates the client side. PBEM helper has also support for hosting, but it is not fully automatic.

Admiral has said that he will add support for PBEM helper in Play By Web. When that is done, then both the server and client sides can be automated to the maximum.

------------------
PBEM

[Admiral]

Very nice summary, Jimbob.

It also supports automatic execution of turns after a specified duration. Unfortunately, because of some issues with command line, unattended operation (of the se4.exe program) with v1.30 and v1.35, the system must remain in beta and without automatic turn execution enabled.

The problem is related to the fact that the se4.exe program pops up dialog boxes (there is no player file, the player file is the wrong turn, etc) to which you must click "OK" or such before the turn will be processed.

Until the program is completely hands off in [em]all[/em] circumstances, the server requires hand holding (someone must click these boxes) and is not very reliable.

Cheers,

Admiral

[Admiral]

Additional changes today include several bug fixes, complete integration of message forums, the ability to have nice user names (such as on this forum but even more flexible), etc.

Still waiting on fixes to the se4.exe program to allow it to be run reliably in a server environment prior to opening it up to general use.

Cheers,

Admiral

[Dracus]

What is going on with this, it is down again.....

[Admiral]

It isn't down as far as I am able to tell, nor has it gone down due to a crash or other reason. The Users were wiped, however, so you will have to re-register (as it says in big red letters on the main page).

Cheers,

Admiral