MegaGlest Forum

Archives (read only) => Vanilla Glest => General discussion => Topic started by: Omega on 4 October 2008, 14:50:07

Title: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 4 October 2008, 14:50:07
Glest Guide v5: Now Released!

Well, it's finally up, and the new domain is http://glestguide.co.cc/

Note, of course, that it's not without flaw. This is just temporary hosting until I can get a commercial host, and will only allow 2k viewers a month... Still, it'll do for now. 110mb still hasn't replied to my appeal, so I've left them forever :|.

More information can be found at:
http://glestguide.co.cc/archives/7kr0uj190b.php

Note:
Due to server changes and permission changes, please report ANY errors or oddities you encounter (though don't report outdated information, that'll be changed soon). Noting that at the moment, the archive articles (including the one above) have a faulty CSS link and look funny. That is being fixed, once my FTP client finishes cycling through all the permissions... Fixed. No known errors.



Changelog for v5:
-Stylesheet and images were overhauled to create a new "theme", which resembles the Glest Board's default
-Archives now use a WYSIWYG editor instead of the proposed BBCode one
-MDC can now edit the existing mods
-MDC can also create new mods
-MDC has a "mod of the month" area. starting with the megapack of course
-Site is now IE compatible in all the pages, fixing the bug with fixed content
-All pages are declared as XHTML v1 Transitional
-MegaGlest Page added
-GAE page brought up to date
-MegaGlest button is added to main page
-Page that lets you change the version numbers of GAE and MG available (NOTE TO SELF: Give GAE/MG teams link)
-Added GAE functions to Lua page
-Updated the map editor page so its for the Mega Glest Map Editor
-Fixed some errors in the XMLs
-Improved the strategies page
-Fixed broken images in magitech page
-Fixed numerous things that were broken from theme change
-Updated several pages to keep them up-to-date, or to reword better
-Numerous smaller changes
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: modman on 9 October 2008, 02:12:25
It has some bugs...especially in the animation and texturing parts--just the ones I was hoping to see.  I'll download it again...

Nope.  Doesn't work.  I can't see the images on those pages.
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: modman on 9 October 2008, 02:24:58
Woa woa!   I see what you wrote and (I'm not taking offense, I'm questioning facts) I agree with most of the facts, but I don't get what you said about the images.  I plan to have all TGAs done by the end of the month as well as all new unit sounds.  You didn't mention that I have new music, unlike some other factions either.  Sorry if I sounded like I took offense; I took none.

I beg to differ on the "overly well balence" of Nihilirian.  Its balence needs tons of work.
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: Trappin on 10 October 2008, 04:07:08
Playing Glest > swordsman177px × 550px jpeg overlays on text ( at least on my firefox browser).

Tips for Glest > Play styles vary but its a good basic start.

Exploring Magitech > all images overlay on text (at least on my firefox browser).

Final Word (Closing) > legal disclaimer(s) and not a summary/closing statement.

I don't code so the rest is gibberish.

 8)
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: Omega on 16 October 2008, 03:08:48
Quote from: "Trappin"
Playing Glest > swordsman177px × 550px jpeg overlays on text ( at least on my firefox browser).

Tips for Glest > Play styles vary but its a good basic start.

Exploring Magitech > all images overlay on text (at least on my firefox browser).

Final Word (Closing) > legal disclaimer(s) and not a summary/closing statement.

I don't code so the rest is gibberish.

 8)
This doesn't work right on Firefox. On the first page, it says that it was made for IE. Firefox has HORRIBLE alligning skills! Map making... did I forget that? There is no code in there, that's the xmls. (For modders)

Quote from: "modman"
It has some bugs...especially in the animation and texturing parts--just the ones I was hoping to see.  I'll download it again...

Nope.  Doesn't work.  I can't see the images on those pages.
To see the Images, YOU MUST UNZIP THE FOLDER!!! Also, try using IE, since it has the best aligning between browsers.

And BTW, where is the bugs in modeling/animation?
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: modman on 2 November 2008, 06:43:05
Of course I unzipped the folder!

The error is the pictures overlaying the text.  Plus, I wish you could be a little more clear.  You lost me when you started talking about the sphere.  I might make a video titled "what am I doing wrong?" with a screen capture program so someone can help.

And there already is a guide to making maps in the maps/tilesets/scenarios forum by Martino.
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: pgraham on 18 November 2008, 14:44:49
Hi,
Thanks for putting this together.  As someone new to glest this is very helpful in getting to know the game's interface.
I have however found a minor error in the main page:
Code: [Select]
<IMG style="Z-INDEX: 100; POSITION: absolute; TOP: 24px; LEFT: -2px" border=0 alt="" src="images\glest_main.jpg" width=800 height=600>should be:
Code: [Select]
<IMG style="Z-INDEX: 100; POSITION: absolute; TOP: 24px; LEFT: -2px" border=0 alt="" src="images/glest_main.jpg" width=800 height=600>The change is that you have backslash (\) in the image source instead of a forward slash (/).

Also, you may want to consider not using the ALIGN attributes of the HTML spec.  While browsers do still support them they are deprecated and may not always be :).  A good rule of thumb for web development is that if it works better in IE than Firefox you're doing something you shouldn't.
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Download now!
Post by: Omega on 28 November 2008, 00:26:54
Ok, I admit, that was my first (and last) attempt at using a visual editor. When I made that, I wasn't very good with HTML. Now I am more than competant and now use MS VS Web developer 2008, which relies on code and is good at spotting errors and can complete tags. If I were to write that now, I would size the image perfectly, maybe center it (I forget where I placed that pic)
Unless it's a link, the border=0 is unneccessary. I would align it normally, not absolutely. (which is what caused the poor alignation in firefox)
I would also add an alt tag so that if it didn't load, we'd see a description. And of course, when manually doing the code, I would never screw up like that. (Blast you fricken visual editors!) I didn't notice because both IE and Safari didn't pick up the error.

If I were to do this now, I would use a CSS to allow backgrounds and text effects throughout the webpage.

I'm not going back to visual editors. They are unreliable, use more space than neccessary, and have limited support for some objects, and some don't offer good JS compatibilities.

You know, maybe I should redo this thing from scratch... Lets see if I have the time. (Ok, I don't have the time right now, but sometime...)
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: Omega on 17 December 2008, 15:23:46
All right! The new version is out. This version is online, and was done completely long hand. It also includes sections on map making, improved modeling/animation/texturing pages, better XMls, ability to submit tips, improved format, and much much more!

Please comment it via the contact page. http://glest.110mb.com/contact.html (http://glest.110mb.com/contact.html)
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: modman on 13 January 2009, 00:07:00
404 Error!
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: mictes on 13 January 2009, 09:35:28
http://glest.110mb.com/
Look at the url.
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: martiño on 13 February 2009, 00:16:21
Hi, I've uploaded the manual to the glest server:

http://glest.org/files/contrib/manuals
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: battle machine man on 14 February 2009, 18:27:54
I've created a compiled help for glest, in the HTML format. It has to be downloaded, and can be viewed completely offline. It boasts a number of sections:
~How to play Glest
~Tips for glest
~Full list of magitech units nwith pictures and advice
~Full list of a number of mods available with RANKINGS. See how your mod did on my judgement.
~Lau Scripting commands and example scenario
~How to make basic models in blender, and getting them ready for glest
~How to basic animate
~How to edit TGAs, list of programs that may be used
~Final word, sums up all with contact, legal, and a final word of advice.

Download it here: LINK DOWN

I realized that there is no tutorials on making tilesets, so I made the most complete one ever! It too is HTML format. Just download the zip, unzip it, and open main.html. Now you've got you're tutorial. Here's the link to that Tilesets download:
http://www.mediafire.com/?zqdt510c8db (http://www.mediafire.com/?zqdt510c8db)

Post your comments, questions, and concerns, and of course, rate it!
~OMEGA

EDIT// Here's the new version: glest.110mb.com (http://glest.110mb.com)
didnt u make a site or was that the first? I looked at 1 of them last week
Title: Re: 'Official' Glest Manual -- Now at v2
Post by: Omega on 15 June 2009, 17:53:28
Simplified: It's new, its everything. It's here: http://glest.110mb.com (http://glest.110mb.com)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: assassin on 15 June 2009, 18:25:24
Could we have a list of changes please?

Oh and there are these guys spamming up your forums...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 17 June 2009, 03:38:51
Oh and there are these guys spamming up your forums...
Yeah, I know. I was going to clean it until I realized that there is next to no users, and almost no posts. No sense cleaning a board that isn't used... *sigh* Kinda makes sense since there is the Glest Board.

LIST OF CHANGES (note that not all changes might be listed):
-PHP Powered
-Ability to post ideas for improvements
-Forums board (ABANDONED)
-New unique layout
-Services such as scenario creator and soon to come faction creator.
-Tips for playing, and ability to add your own easily.
-Mod Download Center, which allows downloading finished mods, scripted scenarios, tilesets, and map packs. Has ratings and allows everyone to rate as well. *Modders please tell me if yours is missing from the list. Make sure it is in the FINAL format.
-Tutorials for modding, including XMLs, Layout, Planning, Modeling, Texturing, and Animating.
-EVERY aspect of XMLs covered in detail with a new method, showing details in a floating box
-Lua details given in a lightbox, providing high details on scripting, and including one sample scenario
-Scenario creator can create scenarios in just a few minutes.
-Fan art posting, and ability to submit your own
-List of ways to maximize your glest experience
-Tutorial for using the map maker
-Hosts the military and elfs sites, as well as labyrinth and omega map pack
-Map pack with over 40 maps to download with images of each one(!)
-TO COME: GAE page
(note: some are features that are not new, but simply improved or even just features)

EDIT://
IE Trapper. Enter the main page with IE and you will get a warning that looks exactly like how IE shows its 'Not a safe site' warnings. After all, browsing with IE is a security risk! Code finished, just need to upload.

BTW: Try to go to the main site with IE to see the sweet spit in microsoft's face! Be sure to hit the 'diagnose' button for a good laugh!
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: modman on 22 June 2009, 19:53:37
 :o Dude, I love the IE warning!  I tried it out, and it's pretty cool.  "Get Firefox, Recommended". ;D ;)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Coldfusionstorm on 24 August 2009, 10:50:51
OMEGA!. what the hell is that bullcrap about IE that you have on your homepage, are you crazy? or just dump and ignorant, that "ANTI" ie crusade you are going on is send new users running away....

if anyone wonders what i talk about visit his homepage with IE and push dianoctics....

new non-technical users will run screaming away, this is NOT approiate....

and i find it horrible that glest links to such rubbish. you have loads of good articles on your homepage but THAT is just giveing glest a bad reputation......
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 24 August 2009, 11:30:09
No, IE gives glest a bad reputation.
Telling people to get firefox, is saving them from IE.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: John.d.h on 24 August 2009, 19:49:22
While IE may be (probably is) the worst web browser ever made, it's still extremely snobby to deny someone access to your website just because they're misguided enough to use it.  Plus, sometimes people don't have a choice, like if they're at the library and the computers only have IE.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 24 August 2009, 19:53:19
Give them access but before, just tell them to get firefox.
If they can;t then they'll just view it on IE anyway.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: modman on 24 August 2009, 22:08:47
You can go into the site.  It just says "Continue to site: not recommended".  And then it takes you to the site.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 24 August 2009, 22:14:49
Oh
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 25 August 2009, 04:06:33
GRAHHHHHHHH!

DO NOT USE IE! DO NOT USE IE! DO NOT - *collapses from a virus, obviously caused by an IE security error*.

Well, the real reason I do not allow IE on the site is because some of the most important pages CANNOT DISPLAY on IE properly. You see, I find it better to get an appropriant browser that will display the site 100% GUARANTEED without SECURITY RISKS, BUGS, DISPLAY ERRORS, CRASHES, and NON-FUNCTIONAL PAGES. Having a page claim to do something and end up not doing it because you came with IE would really suck.

If anyone goes running away because of this, who cares? I just (possibly) saved them from a very nasty security risk. Of course, this beats the alternative I considered, which was to plant a virus on the page, and if the person has IE, then hack their computer and delete IE's executable, but I decided that was a bit dangerous, and possibly illegal. Of course, still a possibility for the future *a glint rises in Omega's eye, and you think for a moment you saw a flash of red, but as you look back, everything appears normal*.

Besides, that only affects if they enter glest.110mb.com (http://glest.110mb.com) from the starting link. The main page is actually glest.110mb.com/main.php (http://glest.110mb.com/main.php), which is redirected to from the glest.110mb.com/index.php (http://glest.110mb.com/index.php) page. In short, every page will give you a proper link, unless you visit through the main page. Of course, that means that the IE users that come from a direct link are in for an unwarned scare... Which is why I have alert boxes and cookies to help there. I got nothing against IE users. Inside every IE user is a professional firefox user.

Of course, don't expect me to lose that warning for as long as it fails to display incorrectly on IE. You never know, maybe microsoft will smarten up someday and get better.

Of course, I may change it to a lighter warning, but that would ruin my fun.

NEWS:
Version 4 of the GG is coming out soon!
Features:
-Archives, a news directory with articles for everything, such as blender tutorials, modeling tips, XML features explained, indepth articles, and eventually, user submitted content.
-Ads on specific pages, in hopes of generating enough profit to upgrade to get some new features, including PHP mail function use
-GAE section, with XMLs, tips, features, etc
-Updated MDC
-fixed errors in XML pages
-add how color-no-energy and size-no-energy work. I finally figured it out!
-updated military page (short)
-DTDs for all XMLs except the unit XML (see below for why) available
-Hopefully a schema for the unit XML, but have to check features

WHY THERE'S NO DTD FOR THE UNIT.XML:
You see, glest's XML was, to put bluntly, poorly planned. It is completely unnacceptable to have the same element (ie:type) appear in multiple tags if it is not the same one (ie: skills, commands). While some such as type are fine, others are just not. I need a way to define only the elements that are children to certain elements, so I will check if XML schemas allow this. I am completed DTD's for all other formats. Testing has proven them functional, and they are GAE compatible! Tested with various XMLs, including my own and ones from Magitech and FPM.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 25 August 2009, 12:08:57
hmm

why don't you create a virus that delete the IE exe AND installs firefox.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: modman on 25 August 2009, 19:13:59
Because that would take too long.  Plus, as Omega says, it's probably illegal!  There is a link to the Mozilla website from that warning page.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: assassin on 25 August 2009, 19:27:09
Maybe you could include Glest installation instructions?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 26 August 2009, 04:55:59
 :D :D :D

Good idea. My coding sucks, I don't suppose any of you know someone with more experience? :D
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: assassin on 26 August 2009, 11:42:33
Well, command-line Linux installation instructions for glest are here:
https://forum.megaglest.org/index.php?topic=4375.0
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Coldfusionstorm on 26 August 2009, 13:27:43
its about sending a signal that we as a communty do NOT support false infomation, or virus. and i seriously think that you are misguideing people with that.

and imo 90% of all virus can be avoided by common sense. .ei, hey cool this site just randomly offered my a .exe file lets click on it!, or just turn on your anti virus when you surf "adult" sites. :D

(that the common user then is too stupid to get this is just bad mojo.)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 31 August 2009, 01:56:33
We don't supply viruses. But microsoft does! If you don't have a virus on your computer, you won't see that message. This is a LEGIT virus check. It checks for a common, hard to remove virus known as IE.

Serious Stuff:
-Lua page is almost done
-Archives are complete and FULLY AUTOMATED. You can post your own articles, and I added a small degree of formatting using Regular Expressions*. Articles are posted instantly, and it is possible to report bad topics. Porn and spam checks are in place by checking for common pornographic words and preventing the post if any occur. Fully made by me, with tons of very professional code. Using my own automation, filtering, and parsing code.
-GAE page is done, and more acurate than all the wiki pages on GAE put together (though shorter and GAE only). Some errors have been fixed. Still to do the MDC. Full syntax highlighting.
-Install instructions to be added. I'm copying and pasting the linux ones, since I got 0% nowledge, and no plans on touching this HDD wiping stuff until I get an external HDD to back up on first.
-other minor changes underway
-stylesheet modified to change link style. No longer easily confused with bolded text (bold darkblue comic sans ms)
-still gotta do ads. So little time...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: John.d.h on 31 August 2009, 02:15:40
Honestly speaking, the whole topic violates people's number 1 right. Choice. We cannot take people's choice away for things (with some exceptions, such as homosexuality, terrorism, abortion, spinach, etc;).
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 31 August 2009, 02:25:38
Heh... ::)

You are welcome to use any browser you want. I won't mess with that choice. However, viruses don't count as browsers.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: modman on 31 August 2009, 17:36:45
Yes, but calling names doesn't count as an argument.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Mark on 31 August 2009, 20:31:21
Though I have to agree with modman that proper debates shouldn't include blatant insults, I don't think that gets Microsoft off the hook for their terrible programs.  I mean, who uses Paint?  Internet Explorer?  No one, that's who.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Coldfusionstorm on 1 September 2009, 10:54:32
i dindt call you names, i said that perhaps you was. i dindt say for sure you where, but its a really bad signal you are sending there, we need to be userfriendly, and ive might gone abit over the top. but you are scareinhg users away with that homepage. thats for sure.

EDIT:wow, i really need to take time to type my posts.....,those are some horrrible spelling error's :D
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: gameboy on 1 September 2009, 13:31:29
i agree with Coldfusion, user may think ur a stuck up loser when they see that, on the other hand they may think u have an awesome sense of humour :P
And mark, paint is just for cropping pictures and blah blah, i remember using it a lot when i was a kid XD
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 2 September 2009, 01:25:27
I'm not going to remove the IE warning, but I think I'll tone it down a bit to a 'this browser is disfunctional, please try firefox' style error. I have a membership on one of these firefox promotion sites, and I'll use the special images they use, but at the same time trying to keep this looking like IE style warnings!

Status: most of the MDC is done, the lua is done, instructions page is done, parsing code is improved. If you have something to request, DO IT NOW!

And no more offtopic. Not here, please!
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: assassin on 2 September 2009, 07:43:54
installation instructions?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 3 September 2009, 05:00:28
Yeah. The install instructions are simply the windows install for vanilla glest and GAE, and dito for the linux (though the 'compile from source' method is for gae 0.2.11). On that same page is how to install tech trees, maps, tilesets, scenarios/tutorials (both GAE and glest).

I also added rollover images for many links.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: kazakore on 3 September 2009, 09:22:36
Images aren't working for Map Makers Guide or Fan Art (and maybe other areas.)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 4 September 2009, 18:38:58
No? Gee, must take a look at that.

I need to find a PHP script to download the entire site (and all sub dirs) by placing it into a zip folder. I think I got one, but gotta get it uploaded...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 10 September 2009, 19:00:37
I was going to upload BETA release codename dark2light, but my site's down! >:( >:( >:(

Very annoying, so now it must wait. Oh well, it could have been worse (I think?)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 25 September 2009, 23:06:58
Yehaw! I finally found a method of uploading that will work now! FTP!

Using fireFTP, I managed to upload a sample page. The only problem is that I must use my personal computer, and you all know how bad my access is to high speed... Maybe I should travel more? :D

Hmm... google time.

YES!

http://www.net2ftp.com/ (http://www.net2ftp.com/)

I think this will do. I haven't tried it yet, but let's keep our fingers crossed!
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Hectate on 25 September 2009, 23:10:28
I use FTP Commander, it's always been good to me. I keep it on my thumbdrive so I have it anywhere I go. It saves the server settings so even if I use a different computer I don't have to worry about the passwords, server names, settings, etc.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 26 September 2009, 01:02:45
In the future, I hope to also make a new layout for the site.

But what? I've been browsing template sites, looking for ideas, but not so sure. Anyone got a good idea? I can make something from scratch.

As well, I need to get started on a roman sub-site for the roman tech tree. Still need some good ideas. I can imagine a basic layout in my mind that will have two columns on the sides that would look pretty cool. What about the rest though? Anyone wanna draw some concepts? I'll credit you!
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: hailstone on 26 September 2009, 01:06:46
Yeah. The install instructions are simply the windows install for vanilla glest and GAE, and dito for the linux (though the 'compile from source' method is for gae 0.2.11). On that same page is how to install tech trees, maps, tilesets, scenarios/tutorials (both GAE and glest).
Note the data for GAE is being used a bit different to how it was in the previous version if you weren't aware already.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 26 September 2009, 01:12:11
Go to cooltext.com you can create lots of things there for free.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 26 September 2009, 01:19:34
Yes. It will need an update. Once I get it up, hopefully someone will be able to show which parts need to be changed. I really got no clue how linux works...

Will try that. I'm on http://www.websitetemplates.org/ right now... But what about ideas? I need some good idea in the event I decide just to go by my own thoughts (likely).
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 28 September 2009, 18:57:28
Well, it's up. Did it work?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: -Archmage- on 28 September 2009, 19:06:30
Just looked the Glest Guide, noticed a lot of other things I didn't see a month ago, very good job.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 30 September 2009, 05:08:37
All righty! It's up and loaded! Please check it out now!

Note that the archives are still in beta, but are fully functional. By beta, I mean PLEASE report anything that goes wrong. My tests have shown they work flawlessly, but I don't know this without more testing.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: ElimiNator on 30 September 2009, 15:43:01
Looks very good omega but I did all the models in Rome and the icons and the xmls and I mapped the mod out. :P
Is that just some help?? O wait arch sent me an untextured changed up sword man for me to texture and animate.
I sent him the faction and he changed the xmls a bit, And I made the partials and splashes.
Arch is learning how to model and contributed a untextured changed up sword man for my moon mod too, but it was animated.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- v3
Post by: Omega on 30 September 2009, 18:53:30
You made the romans? Or did you two work together? I'll fix it soon.

On another topic, please check out this sweet canvas thing. It uses a HTML 5 element called canvas, which is really fun to learn. All points for it are on the page. Animated, and controlled by JS. of course, you need a web browser that supports HTML 5 (Firefox, Safari, Opera, etc).

Really cool! Might consider using it in the future.

http://glest.110mb.com/test.html
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ElimiNator on 30 September 2009, 19:16:08
Well it was archmages Idea but I made it, Hie did some stuff so I guess we worked together.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 16 October 2009, 14:02:24
Omega, I was just taking a look at the MDC, it's very out-dated, and doesn't include many mods.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 16 October 2009, 18:50:02
Yes, I know. Once i get the time, I want to XMLize it. I will have to take a look, but I  believe it is possible to cycle through all the XML files in a folder and use it to build the PHP page. XML's can be updated by their owners, thus making this easier. But how to XMLize?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 19 October 2009, 23:10:12
Sorry for DPing. I've successfully XMLized the MDC!!! You're most welcome, it wasn't easy. I was going to upload too, but it appears the library computers don't have USB slots?!?

I'll post it and the XML layout soon. I haven't yet updated the XMLs. That's for the faction developers, but I did create XMLs of all the previous entries. The code is gorgeous, and for the developers, it only takes seconds to make the XML (not counting the description tag). No known bugs, though being XML, you MUST encode & (&amp;) < (&lt;) and > (&gt;)!

The rendering is also improved, as is the catigories and the rating system. In the future, I wish to convert to AJAX for rating, though my first priority is to get the new version uptodate. Developers who noticed the MDC behind, PLEASE get your information ready to create the XML (which is very easy).

Until next time! I hope to upload at home, since it's a mere 64 KB zipped.

EDIT// It's up. Check it out at http://glest.110mb.com/mdc
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Mark on 21 October 2009, 01:31:58
Very nice work! I am impressed by the obvious dedication, though knowing your high quality of work I am not that surprised.  Nice look to the icons, too.

Just a couple petty things:

About how you say Dark Magic was done by modman and Glade, well you should say Mark, modman and Glade or just Glade.  If you choose the former maybe you could make a link to emailing or PMing us?

You say that Invaders is not good... first of all, I take no credit for anims or statics, but I do take credit for realistic XMLs, balancing, new textures and new images rather than ones from tech.  Other than sounds, I turned it into a finished version, not even mentioning how I compiled a new indians faction.  I do not care about the credit, but could you at least tell people what it is about?  Like say it is a Napoleonic-era techtree completely balanced and fun.

Here is what I would like you to change it to:

A techtree featuring 2 factions Mark using retextured models from various factions.  It has 2 factions: Colonists, a group of technologized europeans trying to take over North America, and the Natives, who are a race of indians who use all available strengths to hold back the invaders.  The colonists faction uses models from tech and Domineonic, a dead faction that had only new models, while the natives faction uses models from Gameboy's elves and Titi's indians.  It is a fun mod that can entertain players for hours.  Though some amount of credit goes to Mark for 'Frankensteining' the techtree, the real credit goes to the factions the models were used from.

Oh, and I did add new music...  it is from Kevin Macleod.

Also, you could do lua scenarios for the french and indian war, war of american revolution, war of 1812 (you could even have canada be involved ;)), and fictitious ones between colonists and natives.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 21 October 2009, 02:01:22
Dude is the site down or something, because I can't access it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Mark on 22 October 2009, 02:01:01
Dude is the site down or something, because I can't access it.
Uh-oh.  No, it seems to be fine for me.  Try typing the url in the address bar.  Both the hyperlink and the latter method work for me.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 22 October 2009, 11:40:09
I put in this: http://glest.codemonger.com/
I came up to a Firefox Can't Find the Server At "http://glest.codemonger.com/"
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: hailstone on 22 October 2009, 21:22:21
There is no need to talk about codemonger here. Daniel has already stated that the server is down and is working towards a solution at https://forum.megaglest.org/index.php?topic=4704.0
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 26 October 2009, 04:41:48
Please remember my site is glest.110mb.com. Don't confuse it with the GAE site.

@Mark: PLEASE make your own XML. The guidelines for making an XML for your mod are available at the MDC. This ensures you can properly describe it, removes my opinion and puts in YOURS, allows you to credit who you wish (no emails, sorry. Besides, that would mainly result in floods of spam. If you must, insert your email after your name, but don't post it as it is, or else spammers will take it!).

Why don't you ALL make your own XMLs for mods rather than leaving the MDC inaccurate, or behind, or just arguing it's inaccurate or behind... ;)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 26 October 2009, 04:59:25
tech|tileset|scenario|map|other
   Mod Name (as it appears)
   one_word_short
   #
   Author's Name (as it appears)
   Description of the mod (as it appears)
   http://download.link
   1|2|3|4|5

How are we supposed to create an XML out of this?
Provide a template please
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 26 October 2009, 18:47:09
Save the bloody XML dude. I tested in every browser I have (Firefox, IE, Safari, Opera, Chrome) and it works 100%. What did you do? For some reason, you aren't seeing the XML tags. Make sure to either open the XML or 'save target as'.

The XML layout is found here:
http://glest.110mb.com/mdc/layout.xml

Or you can use this:
Code: [Select]
<mod>
  <type>tech|tileset|scenario|map|other</type>
  <name>Mod Name (as it appears)</name>
  <shortName>one_word_short</shortName>
  <version>#</version>
  <author>Author's Name (as it appears)</author>
  <description>Description of the mod (as it appears)</description>
  <download direct="true|false">http://download.link</download>
  <editorRating>1|2|3|4|5</editorRating>
</mod>
See the link above if you don't know what is meant by each tag. It's VERY simple. Compared to glest's XMLs, it couldn't be easier, though mine are MUCH less strict, and it's necessary to use proper case, etc; In the future, expect a XML generator.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 13 December 2009, 01:09:33
All right ladies and gentlemen (and not so gentlemen), step right up for the next version (a minor version, but next version nonetheless) of the superb, fantastic, one-and-only... GLEST GUIDE!

Ok, now that I've issued my sales pitch, I present the new list of changes in version 4.1:

-Fixed up scenario creator, now you can add custom resources! Spread the news, get the newbies comin'
-Fixed up scenario creator's downloading process for faster, easier downloads without worries of opening the xml file (forced save)
-Fixed up military website, particularily some links for downloads
-Added a few more entries to the MDC and fixed a few blank spots there (DEVELOPERS: Please send in your xmls, either post them here or email them to me)
-Improved the archives parsing format to fix a bug with the anchor and image tags (before, it used defined characters, now it uses an ASCII range: [\x00-\x33 \x35-\xff] to allow near perfect URLs, breaking ONLY on the double quotes which ends the string.
-Improved the archives parsing format to fix a bug where a few abbr keywords were taken from partial words. Now they are only taken if they are the beginning AND end of that word
-Fixed a minor bug that prevented a certain article from being posted from a bad character.

To sum it up, the scenario creator is much better (what did I do wrong before? I tried to use '.' instead of '.='! Crap!) and the archives had a few bug fixes. I stress again how I'd like developers to help with creating the VERY simple XML needed to tell the MDC all about your mod. Its very easy and can be done in minutes. See the XML format in my last post for more details.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 17 January 2010, 08:21:10
Great Guide! ;D
But are you still going to make changes to it, like for updates?  ???
such as mods-
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 25 January 2010, 19:23:24
Mods? You mean like the MDC (Mod Download Center)? It posts info and downloads for all the mods, but it depends on the mod makers to keep up to date. You make a mod, fill out the simple XML, then send or email it to me. I'll make an online creator if I get enough requests...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 28 January 2010, 00:41:31
Mods? You mean like the MDC (Mod Download Center)? It posts info and downloads for all the mods, but it depends on the mod makers to keep up to date. You make a mod, fill out the simple XML, then send or email it to me. I'll make an online creator if I get enough requests...
Oh... I thought you edited it yourself...  :) But then that would take too long... I guess that is what the wiki is for...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: modman on 4 February 2010, 02:48:36
You should take down the poll and put up a new one talking specifically about v4.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 3 March 2010, 03:36:09
Sorry for late reply. Pondering if to have poll. Very few entries... If so, give me an idea.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 4 April 2010, 03:54:32
Weird, I can't seem to access it right now, is the guide down?  ::)
And yeah I agree.  :thumbup:
You should take down the poll and put up a new one talking specifically about v4.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ElimiNator on 5 April 2010, 05:19:43
I like the guide but it isn't updated very much.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 6 April 2010, 00:09:51
I like the guide but it isn't updated very much.
Same. Ditto.  ::)
Cool, it is not "down" anymore...  ::)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ElimiNator on 6 May 2010, 16:52:47
This is the same site and it is not updated.
Omega you need to update it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 11 May 2010, 16:54:18
Yeah, it could use a bit of updates like mega glest and new GAE. Of course, military needs fixed links. But I can't bloody access the site... Time to file a bug complaint (again) to 110mb. Anyone know any good free hosts?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: hailstone on 21 May 2010, 13:06:16
byethost.com . I've been using hosting from one of their free resellers for a few years and actually bought hosting with them. I haven't had any complaints.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 11 June 2010, 05:22:03
Hmm...at least now your site is "good"...I mean it "works" now...right?
(cause you updated Military...)
Good.  :thumbup:
-------------
About updates, meh, that is less important, I mean, it is important, but your guide already has good information,
(But it would still be good to update...)  ::)
 :thumbup:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ElimiNator on 11 June 2010, 05:38:01
Hmm...at least now your site is "good"...I mean it "works" now...right?
(cause you updated Military...)
Good.  :thumbup:
-------------
About updates, meh, that is less important, I mean, it is important, but your guide already has good information,
(But it would still be good to update...)  ::)
 :thumbup:
Yah, mostly the factions and packs.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 11 June 2010, 05:40:28
Hmm...at least now your site is "good"...I mean it "works" now...right?
(cause you updated Military...)
Good.  :thumbup:
-------------
About updates, meh, that is less important, I mean, it is important, but your guide already has good information,
(But it would still be good to update...)  ::)
 :thumbup:
Yah, mostly the factions and packs.
Mods? You mean like the MDC (Mod Download Center)? It posts info and downloads for all the mods, but it depends on the mod makers to keep up to date. You make a mod, fill out the simple XML, then send or email it to me. I'll make an online creator if I get enough requests...
Yeah...basically.
But the wiki is the best thing for that.
Omega has good tools though.,,  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 11 June 2010, 19:37:19
I'm going to fix it up more (probably this summer thouhg, because its final season, and...) so that people can automatically make it and their faction information as well as it being possible to update a new one. I'll have to use those text-entering captcha-wachamacallits to keep bots from messing it up, since I cannot make a log in system, as I do not have an SQL databse on that site. In the future, if I can upgrade to a commercial site, perhaps I'll add such a thing...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 23 June 2010, 05:12:30
I see, well, good luck. Can't wait for the update you mentioned in another thread...  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 25 June 2010, 17:19:23
Yes. For the record, here is my planned changes:
-Layout. I need ideas! The blue layout isn't very glesty, and causes bad navigation as the site grows. I want something that can be effective, easy to use, have a place to put drop down menus, and can hold all our information well.
-MDC entry creator, which lets you put in your mod
-MDC entry editor, to let you edit the mod's information (ie: change the link because of a new release)
-Some basic organization
-Make the archives have BBCode support, and try to advertise them a little

Anything else?

Also, layout ideas?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 30 June 2010, 00:54:09
Hmm, can't think of anything else for now.
Was going to check but looks like 110 MB is currently down for maintenance...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 3 July 2010, 21:01:11
Haha!! I've done it! Now the site can be compatible with IE (though firefox is still better).

Still no ideas about layout :(...

Anyway, now I can get rid of that entry warning (but I'll put a firefox ad on every page, which will only appear on IE).
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 3 July 2010, 21:32:56
Quote
Anyway, now I can get rid of that entry warning (but I'll put a firefox ad on every page, which will only appear on IE).

 :O



If you make it easy enough, I'll keep the MDC nice and updated. :P
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 4 July 2010, 23:44:18
I did, I bashed em, wee Omega's da one, and er... You get the point. Either way, the MDC can now edit existing entries, as well as create new ones online. I also got a new layout for the site which is similiar to the Glest Board's (should look nice and familiar, since the only way to know to go to the site is through the board). I also made it *IE Compatible*, fixing up the old bugs and removing the warnings. A pretty firefox add will appear.

http://www.spreadfirefox.com/affiliates/utw#utw-plugins
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 5 July 2010, 01:11:13
That banner is great. :O

By the way, I think I'm going to scour your site for info to put in the brand new Tools FAQ. :look:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 6 July 2010, 03:20:10
Yes! I think I can access it now. Time to see...or maybe after the update? You got lots of good info you know, after all it is the "guide"...  :O
Wow, cool, sweet banner! FTW, always, Firefox.  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 6 July 2010, 13:32:31
So far I'm not seeing anything new. :look:
I read your animation tutorial again, and I have to say you do the rigging part very strangely, and it's much harder to use than the rigs John and I use, if you want to now how John rigs things, watch his video tutorial. :)  Since quite a few people go to that site, you should probably fix that tutorial... ;)
No offense intended.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 6 July 2010, 17:17:20
Er, yes, you are best off waiting until I actually finish. I will upload everything at once. I still have to put in parsers for the MDC to check for all fields filled appropriately, and to put in basic security against bots.

What rigs would you and john use then? My rigging tutorial is a very standard, basic tutorial, which uses vertex groups (highly recommended, since letting Blender automatically make bone groups tends to form undesirable results sometimes) and armatures. Not sure what is so different? Unless, of course, you try to use the bone heat method, which is the auto-vertex group sort of thing. I also used the automatically add keyframe function, though I wouldn't recommend that for large scale projects. Its basically the equivilant of hitting 'i' and setting a keyframe every time you edit something.

I dunno what video tutorial you are refering to though... Perhaps you could simply summarize? I don't plan on removing my method, since it works well in the hands of a good animator, but I'm all for multiple methods!

Still to do:
-Fix up everything that may be broken or weird colored, after changing the styles and layout to a more glest-like theme.
-Get parser for MDC Edit/Submit pages.
-Either add BBCode, or make a WYSIWYG editor for the Archives.
-Add that firefox 'ad'
-Add a megaglest page
-Update the GAE Page (started this, got water units and the updated INI)

In the megaglest page, I could use some help. I need to know first of all, the summary of all the major changes. I don't have the newest version, (downloading ATM, but still behind on MG), so let me take a guess of the changes: Masterserver (not sure if this is functional yet or not?), Particle changes (see below), and AI changes (which GAE has though now too).

So, particle changes, I understand most of the XML, but still have some questions for the more knowledgable people. What are the following tags for exactly?
Code: [Select]
<relative value="true" />
<fixed value="false" />
Also, are the only modes available normal and black? How does the color values (rgba) work when the mode is black?

I assume the team color and team color no-energy ones let you set the particle color to team color, as cue color and color-no energy, but how do they blend with the inputted color tag?



And a screenshot of the layout:
I may still add a green header bar like the forum theme has, where the logo is, so that it looks better.
(http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/8748/66545989.jpg)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 6 July 2010, 18:36:26
Regarding rigs: http://wiki.blender.org/index.php/Doc:Tutorials/Animation/BSoD/Character_Animation (http://wiki.blender.org/index.php/Doc:Tutorials/Animation/BSoD/Character_Animation)

That one, the absolute must-read for everyone intending on making a humanoid character in Blender.  I fully intend on (eventually) adapting that to a more Glest-appropriate one, like fixing which axis is up, and building a face, then trimming off the stuff about sounds, etc.  I also did a pair of videos on my youtube channel (link in my signature) for quickly rigging a humanoid, based on that tutorial.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 7 July 2010, 02:08:20
Omega, if you'd like an example I can show you some of my animations. :) I'll give you .blends not .g3ds so you can move the bones for yourself.  ;)

BTW, Bone Heat works very well in most cases, I suggest that you modify it to say something like "I recommend trying the Bone Heat method since it's easier and faster if it works, though sometimes it can do a horrific job, it can still do a really great job. To use Bone Heat select the model(s) and then the armature(s) and hit "Ctrl + p", then in the little thing that pops up, click on "armature" and then click "Create from Bone Heat", that's it! And even if it doesn't work, it can be undone in 5 seconds(literally), by hitting "Ctrl + z" or by selecting the model(s) then the armature(s) and hitting "Alt + p" then selecting "Clear Parent". Or if it did an ok job you can modify it and fix the mistakes. If it does a bad job and you decide to undo it, then follow the method below [*Omega walks up on the stage, trumpets blare, and he explains his favorite method*]".
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 7 July 2010, 23:36:42
Well, I used to use bone heating until I got sick of moving an arm and having the leg move too. Or trying to get a breathing animation... Ugh, I will never go back to bone heating! ;D In all honesty, making bone groups isn't hard, and if you can't take the time to do it, perhaps you don't have the patient for modeling. Modeling is not a 'done in an hour' thing. A fully modeled, textured, and animated model should take no less than a good few hours on a humanoid model.

The animation method I used in Military sucks, and I'd like to redo the animations sometime (though I'll have to import the models with the G3D importer, completely re-fix and re-bone them, and start from scratch  :-[ to do so). The method on the glest guide is better. If anything on the glest guide was bad, its the unwrapping... Of course, it was a quick unwrapping job, so.... :P

Anyway, I don't suppose I could simply get a summary of the video? ;D

And a final note on bone heating, it is useless in very advanced models, so good practice states you should get used to using better methods, since in the future, you may not be modeling for glest forever! :D
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 8 July 2010, 14:17:43
Omega, Bone Heat can do a much better job in a lot of cases, admit it, you lose. Bone Heat can be done, tested, and if needed, un-done/fixed, in about 30 seconds(not the fixing part though...).
There's no reason not to try it before manually parenting everything.

Quote
And a final note on bone heating, it is useless in very advanced models, so good practice states you should get used to using better methods, since in the future, you may not be modeling for glest forever! Cheesy

I can manually rig, it's just that I like to save my time and automatically do it whenever possible. :|



Quote
Anyway, I don't suppose I could simply get a summary of the video? Grin

Something I've animated would show you the result of a good John-style(sorry, dunno what to call it) rig. ;D
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5207065/Glest%20Files/Mods/MISC/squire-new.blend (http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5207065/Glest%20Files/Mods/MISC/squire-new.blend) - basic-running animation
Sorry, if I'm not allowed to re-animate that John, I just got bored and I thought it would be fun, it's the best example I have on this computer.
For Credits and copyright: Everything but the running animation was made by John, and for copyright stuff on that you gotta talk to him, for the running animation that I made, just credit me if you happen to copy it or something.



Quote
The animation method I used in Military sucks, and I'd like to redo the animations sometime (though I'll have to import the models with the G3D importer, completely re-fix and re-bone them, and start from scratch  Embarrassed to do so). The method on the glest guide is better. If anything on the glest guide was bad, its the unwrapping... Of course, it was a quick unwrapping job, so.... Tongue

On the GG animation tutorial if you move the neck the whole body moves, if that's not a problem I don't know what is. :look:
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 8 July 2010, 18:11:22
I've never seen bone heating do a 'better job' unless you are terrible at bone groups. At the best, I've seen it do 'just as good', though usually its worse. You are welcome to use it if you wish, but I WILL show people the way to do it that will work every time. If I just showed bone heating and it didn't work, then I just screwed people over on the GG. That is not my intention, so I showed them the 'guarenteed' way. I never claimed it was the 'simplest' way. Just the better way to do it.



I'll take a look at the file eventually, once I get home.



Yeah, thats because I placed the first bone in a bad place. Everything parents itself from the first bone, and I still need more tests to discover the best location/rotation for the first bone. You're welcome to help me there.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 8 July 2010, 18:35:20
Quote
I've never seen bone heating do a 'better job' unless you are terrible at bone groups. At the best, I've seen it do 'just as good', though usually its worse. You are welcome to use it if you wish, but I WILL show people the way to do it that will work every time. If I just showed bone heating and it didn't work, then I just screwed people over on the GG. That is not my intention, so I showed them the 'guarenteed' way. I never claimed it was the 'simplest' way. Just the better way to do it.

I proposed to teach both methods, not one or the other.



Quote
I'll take a look at the file eventually, once I get home.

Then that will solve your bone issue:
Quote
Yeah, thats because I placed the first bone in a bad place. Everything parents itself from the first bone, and I still need more tests to discover the best location/rotation for the first bone. You're welcome to help me there.

You know you can change bones parents and stuff right? :|
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 8 July 2010, 19:03:34
Well, here's where my technique differs from the one you have in the Glest Guide.  
(click to show/hide)

In summary, the main differences are that I have the legs controlled by a pair of "handles", some knee targets, and IK solvers.  Additionally, I use symmetrical extrusion (starting from the bottom of the spine) to make the rig even.  I also use weight painting to assign vertex groups (which can be done symmetrically, saving time).

(http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/9438/screenshotiq.th.png) (http://img717.imageshack.us/i/screenshotiq.png/)

I want to wait and only release my Solunar stuff under a CC license once everything is final, so people don't end up using old WIP models, but you're free to use that one for educational purposes.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 8 July 2010, 20:02:25
Quote
I want to wait and only release my Solunar stuff under a CC license once everything is final, so people don't end up using old WIP models, but you're free to use that one for educational purposes.

Well, you already released this model, I just made a new walking anim. Oh BTW, on top of doing the animation for fun, I did it to show you how I do running animations, I was thinking that maybe you could learn something from my method of animation. If you like that animation, and want to know how I did it, I'll gladly tell you. I don't mean to offend you when I say that your running animations could use improvement.



About the rigging method, I recommend parenting the toe to the foot(which is what is automatically parents to anyway) rather than to the leg handle. I sometimes forget to rotate the foot into a natural looking position before I animate and then I'd have rotate each leg bone or fix the parenting issue. I say just not even have the problem, and have the thing parented right in the first place. It would definitely be helpful to newbie animators.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 8 July 2010, 22:21:50
No offense taken whatsoever.  When I put together my grand Glest modeling and animation tutorial, I'll let you look over it and we can compare techniques and improve upon it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 8 July 2010, 22:53:46
Quote
No offense taken whatsoever

Glad to hear it. :)



Quote
When I put together my grand Glest modeling and animation tutorial, I'll let you look over it and we can compare techniques and improve upon it.

Cool! :thumbup:
When do you plan to do this exactly? :look: I think you're about to say 'after solunar and the aliens mod and I got some school stuff to do then maybe we'll see'.
(click to show/hide)

We're getting slightly off-topic here.... :|
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 9 July 2010, 04:57:58
I proposed to teach both methods, not one or the other.
Good idea. Will have to make sure I do that before I release.

You know you can change bones parents and stuff right? :|
Yes, but once when I tried, the drop down box for the parent of the bone only had a limited number of options... I tried typing the bone name, but that didn't work. Will have to try a little harder (not sure if I was edit mode/pose mode/what ever).

@John: I noticed that method when I inspected your model of the Spider for glestimals. However, I tried to test it, but couldn't move your spider... I was moving the knee things you mentioned, and even tried the master to no avail.. Of course, that's just one example, and there may have been something missing, but not sure what was happening there...

And I do hope you can get at least a basic modeling tutorial in sometime. I think the community would benefit from it greatly from it. The square heads are hurting my brain!
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 9 July 2010, 05:42:55
Well, I'm off to a good start:
(click to show/hide)

I'll work on it some more this weekend.

When do you plan to do this exactly? :look: I think you're about to say 'after solunar and the aliens mod and I got some school stuff to do then maybe we'll see'.
If you know me well enough to know I'd say that, then I guess you also know me well enough to know I'd step up to that challenge!  Well played, if intentional. ;D

Yes, but once when I tried, the drop down box for the parent of the bone only had a limited number of options... I tried typing the bone name, but that didn't work. Will have to try a little harder (not sure if I was edit mode/pose mode/what ever).
Basically, you can't make a bone the child of its own children, so you'd have to un-parent the um... grandchild bone, and... *sigh* you'll see. :)

Quote
@John: I noticed that method when I inspected your model of the Spider for glestimals. However, I tried to test it, but couldn't move your spider... I was moving the knee things you mentioned, and even tried the master to no avail.. Of course, that's just one example, and there may have been something missing, but not sure what was happening there...
The knee targets are just for keeping the knees pointing the right direction.  The handles sticking down from the bottoms of the legs are what moves the legs, and you may have to turn auto-IK off to move them properly.

Quote
And I do hope you can get at least a basic modeling tutorial in sometime. I think the community would benefit from it greatly from it. The square heads are hurting my brain!
lol Yeah, even a lot of the members around here who have been at if for a while are missing some really basic knowledge.  I finished almost all the buildings for Solunar before I learned how to do a loop cut or use the knife tool, both of which would have saved me a lot of hassle in a few cases. :-[  When I finally went through the tutorial I'm adapting, I wanted to kick myself for not doing it earlier, because of all the stuff that I had been missing out on that would have helped me immensely.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 9 July 2010, 11:43:36
Quote
Quote from: -Archmage- on July 08, 2010, 15:40:08
You know you can change bones parents and stuff right? No Opinion
Yes, but once when I tried, the drop down box for the parent of the bone only had a limited number of options... I tried typing the bone name, but that didn't work. Will have to try a little harder (not sure if I was edit mode/pose mode/what ever).

@John: I noticed that method when I inspected your model of the Spider for glestimals. However, I tried to test it, but couldn't move your spider... I was moving the knee things you mentioned, and even tried the master to no avail.. Of course, that's just one example, and there may have been something missing, but not sure what was happening there...

Have you downloaded the model I posted earlier, that was just animated by me, and I posted that so you could try out the rig for yourself. ;)
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5207065/Glest%20Files/Mods/MISC/squire-new.blend



Quote
Quote from: -Archmage- on July 08, 2010, 19:58:34
When do you plan to do this exactly? Look I think you're about to say 'after solunar and the aliens mod and I got some school stuff to do then maybe we'll see'.
If you know me well enough to know I'd say that, then I guess you also know me well enough to know I'd step up to that challenge!  Well played, if intentional. Grin

Well, you only have two legs, don't step up to too many challenges. ::) Thanks, that was intentional. ;D
So is this going to be a set of video tutorials along with a huge set of texts? Or something like that?

Actually Glest is the one with the normal axes, Blender's are just plain wrong. X is side to side, and Y is up and down in 2D, so why isn't it the same in 3D, except of course you have the Z axis which is forward and back, and just don't get why they switch it all up on ya.



Quote
Quote
And I do hope you can get at least a basic modeling tutorial in sometime. I think the community would benefit from it greatly from it. The square heads are hurting my brain!
lol Yeah, even a lot of the members around here who have been at if for a while are missing some really basic knowledge.  I finished almost all the buildings for Solunar before I learned how to do a loop cut or use the knife tool, both of which would have saved me a lot of hassle in a few cases. Embarrassed  When I finally went through the tutorial I'm adapting, I wanted to kick myself for not doing it earlier, because of all the stuff that I had been missing out on that would have helped me immensely.

This sounds like I'm gonna want to read it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: John.d.h on 9 July 2010, 17:55:55
Well, you only have two legs, don't step up to too many challenges. ::) Thanks, that was intentional. ;D
I figure since this project has the potential to benefit the community a lot more than any one mod, it gets top priority for now.
Quote
So is this going to be a set of video tutorials along with a huge set of texts? Or something like that?
There's no way I'm turning this into a video series any time soon, and probably not ever.  It took me all day just to get those two rigging videos right (and within youtube's time limit), so doing an entire start-to-finish video series is way beyond my patience.  I think text with pictures will do just fine.  If somebody wants to adapt it into a video series, they can be my guest.

@Omega: If this turns out well, would you consider including it in the Glest Guide?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: -Archmage- on 9 July 2010, 18:03:57
Well, John, you could just make some videos and include them, you don't really have to do a whole video series or none.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 11 July 2010, 00:48:40
Ah, now I see how to move the legs... Makes me feel kind of... dimwitted... ;)

And yes John, though I'll need to play work with them some more so I can give my own tips a bit better. Unless, of course, you want to give me something I can just copy and paste into there? :D

I must admit though, I always found paragraphs with images to be better than just  videos. Perhaps you could make both?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 19 July 2010, 19:16:04
Hey guys, am just on my way back, and must hurry, on gas station wireless and this won't last long.

In creating the MegaGlest page, I would like to request better definitions for the tags. Here's my default XML for unit-particle-systems:

<?xml version="1.0" standalone="yes"?>

<unit-particle-system>
   <texture value="true" path="path/to/texture.bmp" luminance="false" />
   <mode value="normal" />
   <primitive value="quad" />
   <offset x="#" y="#" z="#" />
   <direction x="#" y="#" z="#" />
   <color red="#" green="#" blue="#" alpha="#" />
   <color-no-energy red="#" green="#" blue="#" alpha="#" />
   <radius value="#" />
   <size value="#" />
   <size-no-energy value="#" />
   <speed value="#" />
   <gravity value="#" />
   <emission-rate value="#" />
   <energy-max value="#" />
   <energy-var value="#" />
   <relative value="true" />
   <relativeDirection value="false" />
   <fixed value="false" />
   <teamcolorEnergy value="false" />
   <teamcolorNoEnergy value="false" />
</unit-particle-system>

I know some, not all. Can someone give definitions?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: Omega on 23 July 2010, 22:54:50
Well, I'm uploading now, so please refrain from visiting until I notify you its complete (gonna be really buggy with missing files until its complete). May take a little bit, lots of new stuff, and sloooow 'net.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ultifd on 24 July 2010, 00:16:06
Hmm, I guess it should be done now...looks very cool!  :thumbup:
I'll look...more...later. I see you put the "Glest colors" into it. (next one for that is the wiki I guess)

Firefox FTW!

EDIT: Should it be v5 (!) now?  :|
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- Now v4!
Post by: ElimiNator on 24 July 2010, 02:16:10
Well, I'm uploading now, so please refrain from visiting until I notify you its complete (gonna be really buggy with missing files until its complete). May take a little bit, lots of new stuff, and sloooow 'net.
OK, can't wait.
Title: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 24 July 2010, 02:43:57
Glest Guide v5: Now Released!

Today marks a great day in human history... Ok, maybe not, but it marks the release of GGv5.

Changelog:
-Stylesheet and images were overhauled to create a new "theme", which resembles the Glest Board's default
-Archives now use a WYSIWYG editor instead of the proposed BBCode one
-MDC can now edit the existing mods
-MDC can also create new mods
-MDC has a "mod of the month" area. starting with the megapack of course
-Site is now IE compatible in all the pages, fixing the bug with fixed content
-All pages are declared as XHTML v1 Transitional
-MegaGlest Page added
-GAE page brought up to date
-MegaGlest button is added to main page
-Page that lets you change the version numbers of GAE and MG available (NOTE TO SELF: Give GAE/MG teams link)
-Added GAE functions to Lua page
-Updated the map editor page so its for the Mega Glest Map Editor
-Fixed some errors in the XMLs
-Improved the strategies page
-Fixed broken images in magitech page
-Fixed numerous things that were broken from theme change
-Updated several pages to keep them up-to-date, or to reword better
-Numerous smaller changes



The alternative animation method I'll still have to put in. Unless, of course, John or Arch is willing to write a short paragraph form that can just be copied into the GG? :angel:

Either way, some big changes. Next up, learning how to edit the Wiki's theme.



If anything isn't working properly or seems off, please tell me. The upload was EXTREMELY difficult (my internet is so bad that it lets me create new curse words!) and I had to reupload a few files I found that got broken.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: John.d.h on 24 July 2010, 03:24:39
The alternative animation method I'll still have to put in. Unless, of course, John or Arch is willing to write a short paragraph form that can just be copied into the GG? :angel:
I'll see if I can pound out my tutorial in a reasonable amount of time, but it might be helpful if somebody wants to write up a quick stop-gap.  I'm still on the modeling part of my guide.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: -Archmage- on 24 July 2010, 05:21:34
I just made a rigging vid, unfortunately it shows what time it is here. :P 1 in the morning. ;D

I guess I could compress it and upload it overnight for you to see. ;)
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ElimiNator on 24 July 2010, 14:49:51
Love it  :D
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 24 July 2010, 20:42:09
Awesome!  :O Still looking into it.  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 25 July 2010, 02:54:26
Oh, I forgot to mention I released the new version of the Map Pack, which took me two days to take pictures of all the new maps and I revamped its coding based on the MDC. It now contains 60+ maps, pretty much every map released on the forum, some quietly released in mods only, and a few never yet release (aka: military's new naval-compatible) maps. It can be downloaded from the MDC (http://glest.110mb.com/mdc#omegamp).

Note: I am missing credits for most of the maps, so if you notice your map is there and the author is stated as "Unknown", please contact me so I can update it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ElimiNator on 25 July 2010, 04:21:29
Its good that I can create my own enterys.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: -Archmage- on 25 July 2010, 05:57:12
Last I checked there was three entries for the Megapack.
One in the mod of the month/week(whatever it was), and two amongst the others. Shouldn't you have just two, one in the mod of the week/month which can't be rated but shows the rating from the other entry in the normal area?
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 27 July 2010, 02:56:53
Last I checked there was three entries for the Megapack.
One in the mod of the month/week(whatever it was), and two amongst the others. Shouldn't you have just two, one in the mod of the week/month which can't be rated but shows the rating from the other entry in the normal area?
3?! That's not right... there should be two, one as mod of the month (gratz titi!) and one as a normal mod. I'll check into that.

EDIT// Ah, I see what's wrong. The XML parser was reading the mod of the month XML as well... Will fix it soon by giving it a unique directory.

Oh, and one thing I forgot to mention that's pretty cool about the new MDC is that it creates backups whenever you edit the mods, so if they were to get vandalized, etc, they can be restored (of course, this does NOT mean you should vandalize them...).
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 12 August 2010, 20:01:20
Code: [Select]
<center><b style="font-size: 14pt;">MegaGlest [b]3.3.6 [/b]is out!</b><br><a href="http://sourceforge.net/projects/megaglest/"><img src="resource/download.megaglest.png" id="image1" onmouseover="this.src='resource/download.megaglest_h.png';" onmouseout="this.src='resource/download.megaglest.png';" alt="Download MegaGlest"></a></center>Yeah, 3.3.6 (!) is out. Just reminding ;)  :O
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 13 August 2010, 01:01:37
Indeed. The version can be changed by anyone really, since there's a special page that changes the versions, to ensure its always up to date. Security on that page is lax (only converting HTML tags and cross browser scripting tags to prevent basic hacking) so only the developers of the respective programs have the link to that page. The download links always point to the sourceforge page, because there's too many different versions, as well, there's windows and linux versions, which generally do not work on the wrong OS.

Nice to you noticed though. :) I updated it now.

But you know, what the heck, to update the version numbers, go to: http://glest.110mb.com/versions.php

EDIT: Ooh, good thing you pointed this out and I tried to update the versions myself. The stupid linux webhost defaultly sets the positions so the page cannot edit other pages... I will change the permissions now :P.

A quick question for the linux savy. I am familiar with linux permissions to some degree, namely the latter three digits, but what is the first digit? ie: 0777, what is the first one do? I just keep it as 0, and it doesn't seem to interfere.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 13 August 2010, 01:05:53
Ah, I see. I guess I didn't know, since I'm not a developer.
By the way, titi and softcoder like your guide...(I told them...) although titi does not like the HTML stuff...he said. Which is also why he didn't update his site...
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 13 August 2010, 01:20:38
Ah. Of course, the pleasure of my method is that it's totally newbie-friendly. No experience necessary! :D

(http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/2707/instructions.png)

Although I'm still getting the permissions set. Its a bit of a pain using FTP to do it... :P
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 14 August 2010, 19:46:06
Oh...

Quote
Warning: rename(mods/tech/darkmagic.xml,backup/tech/darkmagic 14-8-10.21-43-33.xml) [function.rename]: Operation not permitted in /www/110mb.com/g/l/e/s/t/_/_/_/glest/htdocs/mdc/create.php on line 57

Warning: fopen(mods/tech/darkmagic.xml) [function.fopen]: failed to open stream: Operation not permitted in /www/110mb.com/g/l/e/s/t/_/_/_/glest/htdocs/mdc/create.php on line 59

Warning: fwrite(): supplied argument is not a valid stream resource in /www/110mb.com/g/l/e/s/t/_/_/_/glest/htdocs/mdc/create.php on line 60

Warning: fclose(): supplied argument is not a valid stream resource in /www/110mb.com/g/l/e/s/t/_/_/_/glest/htdocs/mdc/create.php on line 61
hmm? I tried updating DM...
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 14 August 2010, 21:29:31
Stupid permissions are going to send me to an early grave :P. Anyway, its fixed. I had to go through the entire directory again and set the permissions. Dunno why it only worked for some of the files last time.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Bruce on 14 October 2010, 22:24:38
Is it just me, or is the guide currently down at the moment? I'm getting an error saying the account has been suspended (a bit annoying because some of the kids like using it for tips on how to do things!).
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 14 October 2010, 22:29:49
Is it just me, or is the guide currently down at the moment? I'm getting an error saying the account has been suspended (a bit annoying because some of the kids like using it for tips on how to do things!).
No, it also says it is suspended for me too.
 :( What happened...
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 15 October 2010, 02:44:51
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I do not know why the account has been suspended, nor have I recieved notification of this, but have sent an appeal to the host, and hope to have it back up, or, at the very least, a reason as to why the account was suspended. I haven't violated any ToS, so no clue why this has happened.

I appologize for the inconvenience, and am considering looking for a new host ;).
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 18 October 2010, 22:33:01
Well, have you tried to
Code: [Select]
[url=http://www.110mb.com/forum/massive-number-of-suspensions-taking-place-appeal-process-t54206.0.html]Appeal[/url]?
Quote
APPEAL PROCESS:

Include all of the information below (exactly) and e-mail the information to abuse[at]110mb.com.

What to include:

=====================================
MAIL TO:  110mb.server[at]gmail.com   (replace [at] with @)
SUBJECT LINE:  [APPEAL REQUEST] - 110mb.com Account "Your Account Name"

BODY OF MESSAGE:

Your e-mail:
Your 110mb user name:
Date of appeal:
Why your suspension should be appealed:
Please include any steps that you will take to ensure you site does not violate our terms in the future.
========================================
Hmm...maybe somehow you had some code that violated their TOS? Maybe... I guess you'll see.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 18 October 2010, 23:22:43
Already appealed. They have not replied. I have not violated any terms of service, nor recieved any warning. Needless to say, I am looking for a new host. Suggestions?
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: -Archmage- on 19 October 2010, 00:52:15
"viviti.com" is free for 6 months, and you could use that for a temporary host, but I dunno about permanent hosts, I'd need to do a little research.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 19 October 2010, 01:06:09
Meh, not sure about them, they aren't that good of a host.

I might consider paying for a cheap host, such as:
http://www.webhostinghub.com/
http://www.ipage.com/ipage/index.html
http://www.inmotionhosting.com/hostingplans.html

After all, all I need from a host is: enough bandwidth to serve the needs of the site (but, if I were to get a host that offers very high or infinite bandwidth/filespace, I'll happily host all the glest mods in one location, making it possible to create a mod downloader), PHP 5, a SQL database, preferably MySQL, support for the use of .htaccess, etc; The rest is just pretty extras. It's probably the cost that's the biggest issue, but even I can afford $5 a month, and if I add ads, I can probably cover most of the costs. Biggest issue is how to pay, since I've never been really able to put money onto my paypal, though I am going to apply for a credit card soon (got a new job anyway). Nothing immediately, though I should get uploaded to a free site until I can get a commercial host.
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: ultifd on 19 October 2010, 01:09:18
Maybe
http://www.heliohost.org/home/
http://www.freehostingcloud.com/
Code: [Select]
http://0000free.com/index.htmlI guess you could use co.cc ...
http://www.free-webhosts.com/power-search.php try this, might be a little bit biased (not sure) but it's the best thing, or it compares...
Title: Re: Glest Guide v5
Post by: Omega on 19 October 2010, 01:26:56
Maybe
 http://www.heliohost.org/home/
http://www.freehostingcloud.com/
Code: [Select]
http://0000free.com/index.html
I guess you could use co.cc
I recently registered a co.cc, and will look for a host for it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 19 October 2010, 22:45:42
Well, it's finally up, and the new domain is http://glestguide.co.cc/

Note, of course, that it's not without flaw. This is just temporary hosting until I can get a commercial host, and will only allow 2k viewers a month... Still, it'll do for now. 110mb still hasn't replied to my appeal, so I've left them forever :|.

More information can be found at:
http://glestguide.co.cc/archives/7kr0uj190b.php

Note:
Due to server changes and permission changes, please report ANY errors or oddities you encounter (though don't report outdated information, that'll be changed soon). Noting that at the moment, the archive articles (including the one above) have a faulty CSS link and look funny. That is being fixed, once my FTP client finishes cycling through all the permissions... Fixed. No known errors (note: the fix may take up to 48 hours to be reflected on the server)

Also, I now have access to subdomains, and military claims the first stake!
http://military.glestguide.co.cc/
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 19 October 2010, 23:29:31
I see, you used freehostingcloud. Looks good, cept the 2,000 viewers limit. How many visitors did you get before per month, though...
Edit: don't forget to edit the "news"...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 19 October 2010, 23:49:27
Edit: don't forget to edit the "news"...
Thanks for reminding me.

Hmm... According to google analytics, september had 300 views, though I'm not sure when exactly the site went down. Being well under 2k views, we are good for now. It appears to be completely unrestricted, the only limitation being the 2k view limit, so obviously no full mod hosting there yet, though I suppose I can start preparing a better download station. Now... If only some genius programmer could make the download client... :)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: John.d.h on 20 October 2010, 02:04:06
You probably should update your signature as well. ;)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 20 October 2010, 03:29:32
Yep, and your profile URL.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 20 October 2010, 22:06:10
Ah, thanks. There's gonna be a ton of broken links now, especially since I originally hoped that when I moved to a new domain, I could just post redirects on the 110mb site, but seeing they locked that account and haven't replied since, that isn't possible...

I'll get the links in Military though too...
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: hailstone on 23 October 2010, 04:21:30
I'm with byethost.com . In the cpanel it says I have unlimited disk space and 256GB monthly bandwidth. Has all the features you would expect from a good webhost. Haven't had a problem with them, even on their free hosting plan (no ads). $2.99 per month and you get a free domain name if you sign up for a year.

The free plan has just 50GB less bandwidth, limited at 5500 MB disk space, no free domain (but you can use the co.cc one) and less install scripts.

Edit: I'm not sure if it was an oversight of freehostingcloud but their features page says all accounts have a file size limit of 30MB and the premium account section doesn't suggest that it's different when you pay. This would make it extremely difficult to upload mods.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 23 October 2010, 23:35:10
Edit: I'm not sure if it was an oversight of freehostingcloud but their features page says all accounts have a file size limit of 30MB and the premium account section doesn't suggest that it's different when you pay. This would make it extremely difficult to upload mods.
I'm not going to use this host when I upgrade to a commercial! I can get better for 1/3 the price. To be honest, I like the iPage hosting... Upon closer inspection, the first changes the cost based on initial purchase and is even higher after that initial purchase, it's 6.50 a month after the initial 3.50, but that's still reasonable, and I'm reading up on reviews on it, which look quite favourable:

http://www.thetop10bestwebhosting.com/us-hosting-reviews/ipage
http://www.webhostingsecretrevealed.com/ipage-review/
http://ipagehostingreview.com/ (link here for 2.99 a month)

Or, as an alternative, I did find another site with very favourable reviews, JustHost (http://www.justhost.com/), which sports the same price at 3.50 starting (though, as always, it depends on the pay rate. ie: pay every 48 months for 3.45 a month, while paying every month would be 7.95 a month, etc...)



To be honest, all I really need is:
-Full access to permissions and files
-Ability to use CGI scripts
-PHP5
-Access to .htaccess and robots.txt
-MySQL database
-Unlimited bandwidth/disk space/max file size/sql databases
-Email accounts
-FTP accounts

Of course, that's just what I specifically need... If we are gonna go into what I WANT... Well, I'd just take everything and have fun with it ;).
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 24 October 2010, 19:13:16
Or, as an alternative, I did find another site with very favourable reviews, JustHost (http://www.justhost.com/), which sports the same price at 3.50 starting (though, as always, it depends on the pay rate. ie: pay every 48 months for 3.45 a month, while paying every month would be 7.95 a month, etc...)
I know someone that used it before, but that's about it. Not sure how it went...
Anyways, I heard that their fees are like this...
Quote
1 month - $7.95 per month - $20.00 setup - $9.95 Domain registration ( total $37.90 )
6 months- $6.95 per month - Free setup - $9.95 Domain registration (total $41.70 )
12 months - $5.95 per month - Free setup - Free Domain registration (total $71.40 )
24 months - $4.95 per month - Free setup - Free Domain registration (total $118.80)
Or something like that...better double check.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 24 October 2010, 23:49:13
Or, as an alternative, I did find another site with very favourable reviews, JustHost (http://www.justhost.com/), which sports the same price at 3.50 starting (though, as always, it depends on the pay rate. ie: pay every 48 months for 3.45 a month, while paying every month would be 7.95 a month, etc...)
I know someone that used it before, but that's about it. Not sure how it went...
Anyways, I heard that their fees are like this...
Quote
1 month - $7.95 per month - $20.00 setup - $9.95 Domain registration ( total $37.90 )
6 months- $6.95 per month - Free setup - $9.95 Domain registration (total $41.70 )
12 months - $5.95 per month - Free setup - Free Domain registration (total $71.40 )
24 months - $4.95 per month - Free setup - Free Domain registration (total $118.80)
Or something like that...better double check.
You got it. Thus, why I'm leaning towards iPage. Hosting over 1 million webpages can't be a bad sign either. :) Of course, plans aren't immediate. Started a new job, and gotta see how things turn out.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Psychedelic_hands on 29 October 2010, 06:09:23
Hey, the link in the news bar is wrong.... it leads to
Code: [Select]
http://glestguide.cc.co/.
Mixed around the cc and co....  :|
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 29 October 2010, 06:34:59
Oops! Thanks for telling me.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: hailstone on 30 October 2010, 03:35:50
There are some more web hosting plans at
Code: [Select]
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Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Psychedelic_hands on 30 October 2010, 09:56:13
Oops! Thanks for telling me.

No worries, thanks for making the GG! it's helped me out a bunch.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 27 January 2011, 00:01:17
The next Glest Guide version is under development as a major change that will completely rewrite everything and will make future updates easier!

So, first of all, I'm rewriting all the pages with valid XHTML and CSS3 (it's very messy, old code, as someone mentioned earlier ;)), with compatibility for IE7+, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, and Opera (and if it works on them, it should work on nearly every other browser). The layout is nearly the same, but the content and coding is being rewritten for efficiency.

Now, the first change that will be noticeable besides the content changes will be the drop down menu. This will make navigation far easier because it's no longer based on the front page (which will be changed, as per below), but from every page, and allows more room for expansion, as well as categorization of the pages.

Nextly, as mentioned above, the main page will be changed to a professional style. In fact, that's the biggest change. All the content across all pages will be rewritten, focusing on professionalism, clarity, neutral point of view, and multiple options. I do particularily plan to showcase many different Blender techniques, and hope to get the support of fellow modelers here in explaining in depth and with images their modeling techniques (*cough*john*cough*).

The MDC will become something more akin to download.com's style, rather than be a giant, ever growing list, it will be tabbed based, searchable, and split into pages. Of course, it will still be XML based and you can edit articles like before, but I plan to add the ability to comment in addition to rate, as well as allow images to be uploaded and processed.

Ads will probably make a showcase, because if the site becomes popular enough, it's going to have to be paid for. The ads would be customly as unobtrusive as possible, and just there to support the GG, the same as every other site that has ads.

Now another major change, the way URLs work! This is going to make adding new pages easier, as well as reduce page size. You see, like many sites, such as this forum board, it'll just be the index page and everything else is included via parameters. For example, the home page can be either glestguide.co.cc or glestguide.co.cc/?go=home. The part after the equal sign defines how pages will work. For example, ?go=mdc would be the link to the MDC. This makes the site easier to control because formerly, if I wanted to change the layout of the site, I would have to edit EVERY page. Now, I'd just have to edit the index page. Each individual page only actually contains the content area and a few javascripts to modify the title of the page, etc;

Of course, the site will become a lot more javascript based. I'm adopting the syntax highlighter instead of manually doing it, which will make for neater, easier code there, as well as things like pop up boxes, tooltips, etc will appear to describe how to do things. Lightboxes are moving to the Slimbox script, which is faster, smaller size, and easier to customize, while still doing everything the lightbox can do.

Nextly, the branches of the GG, including the scenario creator (http://glestguide.co.cc/scenario_creator), romans (http://glestguide.co.cc/romans), and elves (http://glestguide.co.cc/elves) pages will be brought up to date, and the scenario creator will be refactored and fixed (it's currently broken. Notice the stylesheet is not linking correctly due to a change in the page's code).

In short, there's a lot of changes to come, and it will take a while. Finals are just mopping up now (at the time of writing, english final is tomorrow, and is the last one), so I hope to have more time on my hands soon. Please comment or suggest additional things.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 27 January 2011, 02:43:15
Good Luck on your Final!
Thanks for the update. I didn't know there was a roman page, cool.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ElimiNator on 27 January 2011, 18:34:36
BTW: since archmage is not with romans any more, (See here (https://forum.megaglest.org/index.php?topic=5639.msg65161#msg65161)) And there is basically nothing left in it that archmage did. Can you ether remove the romans page or add my name on it? (Keep his there too if you want)

Quote
Roman Mod Copyright © 2009 Archmage101. Web design Copyright © Omega (Michael Hoffert) 2009.
All images belong to original authors and may not be used without permission.
Web hosting provided by the Glest Guide.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 28 January 2011, 04:00:45
BTW: since archmage is not with romans any more, (See here (https://forum.megaglest.org/index.php?topic=5639.msg65161#msg65161)) And there is basically nothing left in it that archmage did. Can you ether remove the romans page or add my name on it? (Keep his there too if you want)

Quote
Roman Mod Copyright © 2009 Archmage101. Web design Copyright © Omega (Michael Hoffert) 2009.
All images belong to original authors and may not be used without permission.
Web hosting provided by the Glest Guide.
I'd be interested in updating the page. If you'd like to change any of the site, feel free to send me a PM or email and I'll be sure to include that when I release the next version of the site. As well, up to date pictures would be nice.

I suppose the same should be applied to the elves. There's not a lot of changes, but the credits and download links are a definite must.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Psychedelic_hands on 28 January 2011, 14:10:39
sounds excellent  :thumbup:
Thanks heaps for spending your time on this man, I really can't wait.  :P
The glest Guide helped me heaps when I first started. (still does)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 28 January 2011, 18:52:13
First screen:

Not a whole lot to see, to be honest, as most changes so far are in how the code works, but the commentary on this image should explain how the pages will look a bit:

The link is just an example on the new link format. It's not online yet, and won't be until it's finished.

(http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/7346/gg1stedition.th.jpg) (http://img121.imageshack.us/i/gg1stedition.jpg/)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 3 February 2011, 02:31:18
And now a screenshot with content. The main page is fleshing out, and has the nice shiny content now, though it has room for more. Please suggest what you would prefer to see on the main page. Possibilities I've thought of include editorials and featured images (randomly display one of many nice screen shots). Feel free to reply ideas.

(http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/8035/egecs1.th.png) (http://img19.imageshack.us/i/egecs1.png/)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ElimiNator on 3 February 2011, 06:53:41
I think it should say Glest Guide on the top, not just Glest.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 4 February 2011, 03:43:58
Except that I can't make the text with the same style that looks decent (remember the old megaglest logo with the cheesy "mega" text? I don't want that to happen to the guide).

Updated the previous image to be image shack, now that it's working again.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Psychedelic_hands on 4 February 2011, 05:38:32
Why not add the menus bar to the brown bar in the header?

Looks excellent though, very good start. Can't wait to see it done :)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ElimiNator on 19 February 2011, 18:16:03
Spam \/ \/ \/    >:(

Edit: Its gone now  :)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 20 February 2011, 03:45:45
Seeing how you were so nice to give me a free bump (with questionable ethics), here's a quick update:

-Pages required: 52 (not counting MDC and archives pages, which will about double that or more!)
-Latest addition: Modders Center. This handy box (and separate page) at the bottom of the main page is everything from start to finish on making a glest mod. What kind of Glest mod? Every kind of Glest mod. Factions, techtrees, scenarios, maps, tilesets, it's got it, and it does so by starting with the very basics, on how Glest works, ending with the finalizing and uploading process, and even how to make an MDC page for your new mod ;).
-Total filesize of main page including images and scripts (so far): 129kb
-Latest coding change: Tiny javascript to modify the title of the page dynamically



Now, looking at the modelling pages, any suggestions on how to make them? Obviously I want to give multiple modelling, texturing, and animating options, such as John's animation method, etc, in equal lighting, but where am I going to get this information from? *cough*john*cough* ;)



Edit: And the new biggest change: conversion to MySQL! This will speed things up and reduce clutter, while allowing more functionality. Variables such as the version numbers of MG and GAE on the front page, and entire sections such as the MDC and the Archives will utilize MySQL.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 20 February 2011, 22:38:38
Hmm, you would probably have to change your host too once GAE and MG is merged...(I'm pretty sure the MG site already gets much more than 2,000 views per month)
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 20 February 2011, 23:01:40
Hmm, you would probably have to change your host too once GAE and MG is merged...(I'm pretty sure the MG site already gets much more than 2,000 views per month)
Possibly. I hope to have the next version up before Glest 4 hits us though, bringing in a new wave of viewers. Most of the changes will be more accomodating for these extra viewers too, such as the searchable MDC, which will sport individual pages for the mods too, allowing comments, an enhanced rating system, and more. It will allow individual maps to be uploaded too (noting that until I move to a full, commercial server, you still don't upload the actual mod to the site. I hope to change that in the future, should the site become popular enough to allow so).

And of course, suggestions are always accepted.



I managed to half the number of images by converting to CSS sprites. The main page has gone from 10 background images to 5 background images used! This will cut loading times, as there's much less requests per page. This is not the only optimization though, as I am trying to adopt many of Yahoo's recommendations for speeding up webpages. Of course, some, like the CDN (Content Delivery Network) are far far too impractical for this site, but many of the others are applicable, and at the moment, it is scoring an A in the small website category at 95/100 points, maxing in all categories except the gzip compression, as my testing server does not have that module installed (but I expect any decent commercial host to have it installed).

But, the kingpin, I have the main page uploaded online (I used the SpriteMe service to make CSS sprites, and for that, it had to be online), and can be viewed at:
http://glestguide.co.cc/~miasma

There is only one page, and all other redirects will give either a dummy page or a 404 every time. It's just to give a quick view of the site. Also, the database function that gets the version numbers has been temporarily replaced with static text in this example for reasons explained below.
 
However, one issues was discovered: the Databases are not connecting. Running my tests locally, they work fine, but when replicating the same online, the server always returns an error... I can only hope there's a delay in updating this, in the same manner my initial uploading of the site. However, should it not be working by tomorrow, I'll ignore that and continue working in a standardized way. I plan to move to a commercial host soon anyway, and never a better time than now (too bad that mod downloader idea had died off... I really wanted to tailor the MDC around it to make it the center of mod downloads).

How will we know if the host is a go? Well, we just need one of my tests to pass. Once we can see green at http://glestguide.co.cc/~miasma/test.php we'll know we have achieved connection to the data base. It should look like this:
(http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/3748/capturejyq.jpg) (http://glestguide.co.cc/~miasma/test.php)

Enjoy the preview, and be sure to let me know of your thoughts.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 29 March 2011, 01:32:52
Progress report?  :) Maybe you can update it after both of the final forks are released.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 29 March 2011, 01:43:33
Catching news that a Mod Download Center is in development, and it's not the Glest Guide's MDC, I ponder the reasons to keep this project alive. Development is going slowly, due to less time available, but the main issue is the use of it. The MDC was really the core feature of the Glest Guide, and if it becomes obsolete, that really just leaves the documentation, which I propose we instead start redoing in the Wiki, which has the advantage of easy editing and that everyone can edit. While that does have downsides, I think it would better the Glest community. Sure, some things would not be able to adapt well, but for the most part, I am able to add Javascript to the wiki (since my account is an auto-confirmed bureaucrat), though am reluctant about going overboard with it, and don't want to make it a necessity to view content (currently, I have added javascript to aid in sorting, the navboxes, collapsing boxes, etc. The full script can be seen here (https://docs.megaglest.org/MediaWiki:Common.js)).

Too long; Didn't read version: Considering phasing out the Glest Guide with some degree of merging into the Wiki.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 29 March 2011, 05:20:41
:-\ But you knew that someday there would be a Mod Download Center...why the sudden change?
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 19 April 2011, 02:02:51
Sorry for the DP as always.
You should probably remove your Firefox promo thing. Or update it.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 19 April 2011, 04:31:54
The guide is dead. The code I used for the firefox ad was bugged anyway. I'm slowly trying to move the guide's contents to the wiki, but no work will be done to the guide, besides its sub domains such as http://military.glestguide.co.cc/
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: ultifd on 19 April 2011, 04:44:02
What's the exact or real reason that you're choosing to abandon the guide? Please remove the outdated firefox ad code.
Title: Re: Glest Guide -- New domain: glestguide.co.cc
Post by: Omega on 19 April 2011, 04:57:28
What's the exact or real reason that you're choosing to abandon the guide? Please remove the outdated firefox ad code.
The reason it's abandoned is because the wiki has every advantage over it. It's easier to edit, can be edited by anyone, it's an easier platform to edit because of the clear set policies, it is ranked well in google, and it is easier to maintain.

I suppose I can try and remove the firefox code, but that will be a pain in the arse due to the foolish way I implimented it. Ironically, the revamp I planned would have made such things easier to add and remove, but meh.