| From: | dhinkley@***.org |
|---|---|
| Subject: | Re: GM Helper Program |
| Date: | Mon, 30 Sep 1996 00:48:46 -0700 (PDT) |
>wondering what features people think they need most.
How about those of us that are still running Windows 3.1.
There is no way I would try Windows 95 on a 386-40.
>The core feature set I perceive is this:
>Roll dice (including success tests)
I have mixed feelings about the computer doing the dice
rolling. It is somewhat easier to accept failing a roll of 12 dice
when you are looking at the dice then reading the result on the CRT.
The big question is how random is the dice rolling program.
>Keep track of character stats.
Please make the format compible with Paolo's excellent
Character Generator. Also include a means of printing out a current
version of the character stats.
>Roll initiative + show which character acts next etc.
This should permit the option of inputting the players rolls
or having the computer do the rolling. The acceptability of the
computer rolling verys from group to group.
>Keep track of Pools.
This should be expanded to cover the calculation of all pools,
initiative, and track Karma (and its use) The key may be a electronic
character sheet that is up dated frequently. A means of printing it
out is also needed so the players have a copy to refer to.
>Keep track of injuries to characters.
>Have a character roll a success test ( including injury mods +
>visibility mods etc)
>Have a character resist damage.
>Ability to handle characters, critters, spirits
A must if the program is to gain wide acceptance. There has to
be a way to bring in the somewhat weird yet wonderful special
character types.
>Non-Core but nice:
>Combat and Spell "Wizards" to deal with these very common situations.
>Keeping track of ammo.
Only works if a complete shooting module is included. Other
wise the GM is now tracking the players Ammo consumption. This results
in more work for the GM.
>Decking "Wizard"
>A "Map" mode to drag characters around on.
>A log of past dice rolls and events.
>Ability to load characters created from the SRCG program.
This should be moved to the Core group.
>Ability to handle vehicles, spells, barriers and programs.
>Context sensitive help.
>What do you think should go in first?
I would start with an electronic character sheet. One that
self calculates pools and other similar items. It should be able to
import from SRCG and make hard copy print out. Next I would develop a
similar record for NPC's and a means that a group of them could be
prepared in advance ready for use during the game. An option to reset
the stats after combat or to retain (this permits the development a
group or group of thugs, security types, and gangers that can be
carried over from game to game) should be included. Next I would add
the Initive calculator and a means of generating a list of who comes
off at what phase.
>Keep in mind that I want A) a >simple user
>interface and B) if the program needs to much data entry to use a
>particular
>feature, no one will use it.
>Once it's in a releasable state, I'll send it to peoples' archives,
>so don't bug me for
>it untill then.
>Double-Domed Mike
Good Luck with this project. I am looking forward to seeing
the result. You might consider doing it in sections and releasing Beta
test versions for evaluation and feedback. That way you can react to
comments and fix some of the bugs on an on going basis.
David Hinkley
dhinkley@***.org
