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Ramsey
08-31-2008, 01:44 AM
1) Update Overview: (TOC)

-SWGEmu Web Development
-New Test Center Login System
-Database Wipe
-New Profession Representatives!
-Accurate Server Status
-Loot Group System
-State packs
-Various Bug Fixes (listed)

2) Body:

SWGEmu Web Development:

We have begun preliminary work on what we are calling a Packaged Community Portal (PCP) (http://www.assembla.com/wiki/show/swgemu/PCP_Packaged_Community_Portal). This PCP will be shipped with every server, and will allow server operators to have access to many tools they will need to manage their server and player base. Public, User, and Administrative access will yield different results when accessing the PCP. When an anonymous web surfer lands on the PCP page, they will find information about the server, how to join, the server status, and much more. If they create an account through registration, or login with an account, they will gain access to information such as their profile, character information, a viewable list of inventory items for each character, guild pages if they are in one, and faction pages if they are in GCW. The administrator interface will give access to a full set of tools for manipulating the server, and keeping it in optimum shape. Everything from setting up the connection information to posting updates and bringing the server up and down to despawning resources and deleting/banning characters and accounts.

Please drop by #swgemuwebdev if you are interested in contributing to the idea. We are looking for potential developers with knowledge in PHP, XHTML, CSS, and XML.

A live demo can be tracked at http://pcp.swgemu.com.

-------------------------------

New Test Center Login System:

We have recently changed the way the Login and user system on the Test Center functions. The Test Center and the SWGemu forums are now linked. For you, this means that from now on you must use your username and password from the SWGemu Forums to log into the SWGEmu Test Center.
If you have not already done so, you will need to register at the SWGEmu forums, and use that username and password both here and on the Test Centre from now on. This is the only way of creating an account for use on the Test Center.

We have posted a more detailed announcement reguarding this subject a few days ago in this topic (http://www.swgemu.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14443).

-------------------------------

Database Wipe:

As you have all probably realised, the Test Center's database was wiped on 08/30. This means that every account, character and item was deleted. Unfortunately, there is no way for us to retrieve your lost items or characters. The DB wipe was to accomodate the transition to the integration of the TC and the Forums.

-------------------------------

New Profession Representatives:

Please join me in welcoming the new Prof Reps who have volunteered their time to help make the SWGEmu better.

Thank you to all those that sent me apps, it was not easy to choose the final list as some profs had multiple good candidates.


Bounty Hunter: Iakimo
Musician: Amitrov_Derinth
Pistoleer: Aslad
Ranger: whistletock
Swordsman: egoa
Teras Kasi Artist: Murreki
GCW: Sirius

-------------------------------

Accurate Server Status:

Revisions; 611 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/611), 613 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/613), 614 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/614)

Bobius has added a "StatusServer" thread to Core3 which will return an XML file detailing the status of the server. The test center now has this change implemented. You can check the server status either in the #test channel topic, or by pointing your browser to http://chicago2.swgemu.com:44455 . Revision 614 (linked above) in particular shows website owners how to check the server status with a PHP script. We will integrate a test center status script with a few changes coming to our web page :).

-------------------------------

Loot Group System:

Revisions; 581 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/581), 588 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/588).

We mentioned "loot groups" in our previous update and have continued to expand on them in the last few weeks. Loot Groups are now being documented in the lootgroups.xls file (docs folder). The spreadsheet contains information on the loot database to make scripting new creatures and their drops, easier. All creature scripts have been updated to use this new system. We are confident this particular change will make maintaining scripted mobs an almost enjoyable task for future server admins.

-------------------------------

Statepacks:

Revision: 602 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/602).

Along with a few other fixes, cRush has added state packs to the game and put them out on bluefrogs for general consumption. Please report any bugs regarding state packs to him via the support system.

-------------------------------

Various Bug Fixes:

-Profanity filter now checks entire name for blacklisted words.
-Added system messages for the Group and meditation actions.
-Creature & Player attacks/skill scripts cleaned up.
-Updated trainer locations (Thanks to the Profession research team!)
-Character deletion now removes more information from the database.
-HAM bar updating fixed.
-Regen begins after primary wounds are removed.
-Bluefrogs deal focus damage.
-Fire Blankets added to bluefrogs.
-@kill & @killArea no longer destroy bodies, so that respacks can be tested.
-Server startup time improved.
-Stat migration exploit fixed.

Along with these feature bugs being fixed, we (mostly Oru & TheAnswer) have done an excellent job in plugging memory leaks (among other assorted bugs) by getting YOUR feedback directly from Test Center logs.

The following 14 revisions fixed major threats to stability;
579 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/579), 591 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/591), 593 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/593), 595 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/595), 603 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/603), 604 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/604), 605 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/605), 610 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/610), 621 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/621), 622 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/622), 623 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/623), 624 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/624), 625 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/625), 634 (http://trac2.assembla.com/swgemu/changeset/634).

Ramsey
08-31-2008, 01:44 AM
3) Developer Perspective: ("Round Table"):


cRush:
College courses have resumed for the Fall Semester, and I have been busy getting organized to be successful in that regard. I am also looking to complete my personal web page and start the job hunting process, as my funds are starting to get low. I will continue to work on knocking bugs out in the recent additions to TC. Please remember to submit any bugs you encounter through the Support site. I still plan on moving on to Combat Medic afterwards, but school will have an impact on my free time.

I am also looking to start work on a web based administration panel to assist server operators in keeping their servers well managed and optimized. The outline for this is in the works.



panchjr:

I have 2 projects on the go at the moment.

The first one is to implement what I am going to call hunting grounds. These will be areas defined in luas that will contain a set number of lairs chosen randomly from a list of possible lair types. The lairs will be randomly placed within the area, with some checks so they are not bunched together. After a lair is destroyed a new one will be spawned after a random delay.

The other much bigger project is reviewing and proposing ways to improve the combat code. This could take months as we want to make sure that code is as optimal and bug free as possible.



Bobius:

The last few weeks we have spent tirelessly trying to fix bugs and memory leaks, but I did manage to squeeze in a few features. Most notably is the status server. No more should we have to hear the question "is the server up"? The status server releases real time, accurate server stats in a flexible xml format. I've already seen a few great apps that the community has made to reflect server stats. Keep an eye out for new features coming to the status server, such as server up time, and possible memory and cpu usage.

I'm currently working on patching some exploits and revamping the item structure, so that we can set permissions on who exactly can use each item (race, sex, faction, covert/overt.. etc..) That should be coming in the upcoming days. However, it probably means that we'll have to wipe the DB again. Remember, this is a TC. We're still defining the Database structure, and every now and then when we change it, we have to wipe.

I may be out for a few days. As many of you know, I'm from New Orleans. If this hurricane comes any more east, I'm out of here. Otherwise, I may just be out of power / internet.



Valkyra - Client Developer:

Hey guys, I know you all haven't heard very much about me on the subject of Kashyyyk. And there are a few reasons for that, but the main one is that, I am sorry to say however I have stopped working on Kashyyyk somewhat. I know for those of you who would love to see that planet don't fear - as I still think the planet will get done someday.

The primary reason for this is because at this time I am not confident that we have the resources to work on such an adventure planet. Sure, I can put some buildings down and alter some terrain and call it a planet, but the content would be missing. In the future (perhaps after a 1.0 release of SWGEmu) it may get picked up on again, but I'd need a brainstorming team to help me with content for Kashyyyk, such as creatures, quests, dungeons, etc. Another reason that I decided to drop Kashyyyk was that many people have pointed out that it's not 100% accurate to the lore - there's no tree levels like KotOR's Kashyyyk for example... And unfortunately there's not a whole lot I can do about that at this time.

But I'm not just sitting here twittling my thumbs, I have done some non-territorial work for another planet - Chandrila. Synter is working on his TRN editor, and he has been doing a fantastic job on it. The reason that I chose Chandrila as a planet to add into SWG because there is just enough information about it (such as city names) to make it a decent planet, but not enough so that people can't say it isn't true enough to lore (as Kashyyyk). Also it's a more 'casual' planet such as Taanab, and I plan on making it a build-able planet (aka you may have a player city on Chandrila)... As for what it'll look like, it will be somewhat similar to Corellia, but will have it's own distinct features.


Here's some load screens for Chandrila that I made -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k94/XValkyX/SWGEmu/Chandrila/chan_load_1.jpg


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k94/XValkyX/SWGEmu/Chandrila/chan_load_2.jpg


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k94/XValkyX/SWGEmu/Chandrila/chan_load_3.jpg


You can also read more about Chandrila here - http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Chandrila


Well that about wraps it up, stay safe SWG Pre-CU fans!

-Valkyra


Kyle:

Things have been pretty quiet for me as of late. I have been working on a number of behind the scenes items for crafting and the server. The only thing added to the server from me as of late is the forum integration. I have also made tons of progress on my Crafting Schematic Tool, as well as wrapping up one of the more difficult areas of crafting (for me, at least). This area is subcomponents. I'm a pleased to report that subcomponents are virtual finished. Aside from double checking math, the wild world of working subcomponents should hit TC in the next few updates as well as a soon to start steady stream of new schematics. School has also started for me, and I may or may not have less time with things going on, but crafting is approaching full implementation very soon. Stay tuned.

Example Component (http://www.ocdsoft.com/component.jpg)




Ramsey:

I've been running private tests with a few people to fix bugs within the ActionCreature (interactive npcs) and their missions. What I need to do now is work out item stuff for deliver missions as well as granting rewards. I don't see any stability problems arising with that - so the whole thing should be hitting svn soon.

Screenshot of an NPC that is carrying a conversation w/ a player using scripted dialogue and various actions tied to dialogue options:

http://swgemu.com/images/bw8-30_miso.jpg

When it hits the TC, you'll see the special mission terminal pictured above.


4) Closing:

As some of you may have noticed, we are spending more and more time fixing bugs through TC feedback. We'll be shifting more focus to simply testing over the next few weeks and go back to old features to make sure everything is working properly.

While we will be doing the actual work in code to fix bugs, we really need people making the effort to report them in the first place. Unfortunately, there are players on the TC that do not view the TC as a work environment. The TC isn't meant to play around on - we need your bug reports submitted through the support site (http://swgemu.com/support). All we ask if for more of the community to meet us halfway: we'll do the code, you fill in 5 fields in the support site :).

PLEASE SUBMIT BUG REPORTS!

Until next time,
-Team SWGEmu

Ramsey
08-31-2008, 01:44 AM
Reserved

Vashman
08-31-2008, 01:55 AM
woot! thanks for the BiWeekly Update ramsey:D

Ketaris
08-31-2008, 02:07 AM
I appreciate all of the hard work.

coasterboi
08-31-2008, 02:08 AM
Do you have...it? :O

egoa
08-31-2008, 02:10 AM
Thanks for the Update Ramsey! Good info! :D

blazinyou
08-31-2008, 02:19 AM
awesome. thanks guys, its much appreciated.

Enflorence
08-31-2008, 02:28 AM
Good Job!

Max
08-31-2008, 02:38 AM
A pleasure as always!

Emerzon
08-31-2008, 02:42 AM
Welcome New REPS! Great news as always. /salute

SethonC.
08-31-2008, 03:17 AM
Once again; EPIC! Always great to see stability fixes.

Ekaika
08-31-2008, 04:02 AM
While we will be doing the actual work in code to fix bugs, we really need people making the effort to report them in the first place. Unfortunately, there are players on the TC that do not view the TC as a work environment. The TC isn't meant to play around on - we need your bug reports submitted through the support site (http://swgemu.com/support). All we ask if for more of the community to meet us halfway: we'll do the code, you fill in 5 fields in the support site :).

PLEASE SUBMIT BUG REPORTS!

Until next time,
-Team SWGEmu

QFE

praxi34
08-31-2008, 08:07 AM
W00t another brilliant bi-weekly. Keep it up SWGEmu. :)

Tolbat
08-31-2008, 09:16 AM
Great Update, thanks

Kruge99
08-31-2008, 09:24 AM
wow! what great progress!! Great work everyone!

Kruge99.

bignuts
08-31-2008, 09:55 AM
Thanks for the updates everyone! As soon as the TC gets back up and running I'll do my best to squash some bugs. Hope more features come in the next few weeks! :D

Daxx32
08-31-2008, 09:56 AM
Thx for the update :)

Baak'Cha
08-31-2008, 09:57 AM
Good stuff. Thanks for all the hard work!

TAfirehawk
08-31-2008, 10:10 AM
In case somebody stopped reading before the end or missed ekaika's post :)

*TAfirehawk pulls out his BFH* :O


4) Closing:

As some of you may have noticed, we are spending more and more time fixing bugs through TC feedback. We'll be shifting more focus to simply testing over the next few weeks and go back to old features to make sure everything is working properly.

While we will be doing the actual work in code to fix bugs, we really need people making the effort to report them in the first place. Unfortunately, there are players on the TC that do not view the TC as a work environment. The TC isn't meant to play around on - we need your bug reports submitted through the support site (http://swgemu.com/support). All we ask if for more of the community to meet us halfway: we'll do the code, you fill in 5 fields in the support site .

PLEASE SUBMIT BUG REPORTS!

Davickk
08-31-2008, 10:21 AM
<333

melikeybouncy
08-31-2008, 10:22 AM
lol pcp but seriously, i love you guys

Skappato
08-31-2008, 10:38 AM
U are a great developers team :)
Congratulations for your hard work.

Murreki
08-31-2008, 11:07 AM
Looking good!
Oh, how I can't wait to see crafting again. :) Keep it up guys! ^^

goldcrud
08-31-2008, 11:10 AM
Awesome update devs especially can't wait to see some screen shots of the planet Chandrila :).

Sirius
08-31-2008, 11:35 AM
Seeing everything coming together definitely makes me smile =)

to all the people out there on TC that do truly have lots of fun playing on there: don't worry! Even if it'll be a little bit more work to submit bug reports, we'll be right there to respond to them. You can take my word to the bank on this one- if we all work together to pull this off, the game will come together much faster, and the finished product of precu will dwarf the amount of fun you're currently having on TC. It is worth it to work hard now to gain the reward later!

if any community can do it, it's this one!

apowerr
08-31-2008, 12:00 PM
Great work devs.

Diehomey!
08-31-2008, 12:09 PM
sweet updates!

Pake
08-31-2008, 12:22 PM
sweet, I had a slight problem with "peace"; going to try and reproduce it. If so I'll report it assap.

DragonSage
08-31-2008, 12:30 PM
Sweet! Mmm, Chandrila...

TravisC555
08-31-2008, 12:50 PM
Nice update! And Bobius stay safe!!

okegima
08-31-2008, 01:42 PM
awsome works keep going

Torekk
08-31-2008, 02:08 PM
good job guys!

Keep it up

Lubbe
08-31-2008, 02:11 PM
Great updates :)

MrBlonde
08-31-2008, 02:53 PM
woot! thanks for the BiWeekly Update ramsey:D

^^

Many thanks folks :)

259fol
08-31-2008, 03:18 PM
Great job, finally an update. :)

bongandbeer
08-31-2008, 03:35 PM
awesome update!!

but -

this link isnt working in the section: Accurate Server Status:

or by pointing your browser to http://chicago2.swgemu.com:44455 .

for me at last,... im from germany, maybe regional problem

Zaff
08-31-2008, 03:41 PM
Good news as usual. Especially the work on memory leaks and bug squashing.

I haven't been doing systematic testing. But I managed to stumble across a bug and report it. And even though it took some of my time to report my first bug, I felt like I had finally accomplished something more than just pushing CPU cycles for the team. So do what you can. Every little bit helps.

Serpentkaa
08-31-2008, 03:50 PM
Nice update! This project is moving right along :D

morganellie
08-31-2008, 04:11 PM
Well done on all the hard work everyone, I speak for all of us when I say you people truly are astounding considering the fact that you do this volountarily in your spare time without a multinational corporation and massive resources at your disposal.

Shame on you SOE, shame on you indeed

Xenomorph
08-31-2008, 04:53 PM
Lovely progress being made still. :D

DeCastro
08-31-2008, 05:12 PM
Great update.

Taspo
08-31-2008, 05:31 PM
Excellent! 1 step closer to the finish line :D

kaque
08-31-2008, 05:34 PM
Great progress and hats off to all involved. I can't wait to see more schematics. Woot! I'll be submitting those bug reports.

Rhotten
08-31-2008, 06:41 PM
looks awesome guys
imma go test now
THNX ALOT

mandolorianoutcast
08-31-2008, 07:25 PM
Very nice; remember though school first. =p

Fedora
08-31-2008, 07:27 PM
A big welcome to Aslad, the new Pistoleer Representative!

whistletock
08-31-2008, 07:43 PM
Another meaty update.
Many thanks!

TheA-froChild
08-31-2008, 08:31 PM
WOOT DB WIPE!!!

Also I *tear* love you guys!

Tow'lin
08-31-2008, 09:37 PM
Great update! Look forward to the next.

Regards,
Tow'lin Tow

USMCNick
08-31-2008, 11:24 PM
Great update guys! Cant wait to see what will come next.:O

gurluas
09-01-2008, 12:46 AM
A shame work on Kashykk was halted, hows work on Taanab?

Will Cinco_City be the template for Chandrila?

Seph
09-01-2008, 12:52 AM
Great work guys!

Anyone know whats going on with structures lately? I remember them talking about heightmaps and stuff a lot for a little bit but its been silent for a while.

Ekaika
09-01-2008, 02:01 AM
I know McMahon placed a Naboo house in the middle of Theed a while back. There were challenges to overcome after that. Good question.

Fedora
09-01-2008, 03:46 AM
I know McMahon placed a Naboo house in the middle of Theed a while back.

That's trippy...

cable-odinson
09-01-2008, 05:00 AM
this project is getting better and better and better !!!!

Gj al

toilet_duck
09-01-2008, 06:30 AM
Great update. Thanks for all the hard work!

Jarryd999
09-01-2008, 02:04 PM
That's trippy...

star wars is one rllllyyy hard trip

Sadeous
09-01-2008, 02:44 PM
Awesome stuff guys :D (btw Valkrya sry to hear about Kash yea I know it's a tough job but good luck on Chandrila)

Timbab
09-01-2008, 03:09 PM
Always great to see the BiWeekly Updates, good job guys, as always. :D

Grija
09-01-2008, 06:48 PM
me love ramsey long time

Ka'hik
09-01-2008, 08:22 PM
Do the members of the Client Development Team lack the skills necessary to push forward the main build of SWG? Or is it that because they cannot contribute to the progression of the emulator that they work on extra content?

MikeCool
09-02-2008, 12:57 AM
Good job with the update guys! :)

Keep it up.

Kyle
09-02-2008, 01:29 AM
Do the members of the Client Development Team lack the skills necessary to push forward the main build of SWG? Or is it that because they cannot contribute to the progression of the emulator that they work on extra content?

The client dev team does exactly that, the work on the client. The main dev team works on the server. The client works fine for publish 14.1, so it is kinda a necessity for the client dev team to make additions by the nature of their jobs. It's probably better to phrase your questions in a less demeaning manner when you don't understand the context.

Cazmu
09-02-2008, 06:04 AM
ok cool

Farmer_John
09-02-2008, 10:14 AM
Great work guys!

Anyone know whats going on with structures lately? I remember them talking about heightmaps and stuff a lot for a little bit but its been silent for a while.

That is a huge update. Many thing go hand in hand, relying on each other, so we can think of it as a task "some would consider unnatural"... :emperor: ;)

Rancor292
09-02-2008, 10:55 AM
I, iam new here, but i want say: Thanks and good work. I follow yours updates constant.

KroniK
09-02-2008, 11:15 AM
Great update as usual. Makes me sad bout Kash, but maybe will see again one day.

cRush
09-02-2008, 11:34 AM
That is a huge update. Many thing go hand in hand, relying on each other, so we can think of it as a task "some would consider unnatural"... :emperor: ;)

I have just uncovered a terrible truth. Farmer_John is the Dark Lord of the Sith. He is the one we have been searching for.

Itek
09-02-2008, 01:03 PM
Nice work guys good effort. I have a few bugs I will report when I log on next.

Kaadus
09-02-2008, 02:51 PM
WOOT... #71

I have low expectations and for that reason I am excited about doing minute things most could care less about.

Great update, You guys rock

toro45
09-02-2008, 03:16 PM
:O gettin better every update

Fedora
09-02-2008, 06:44 PM
I have just uncovered a terrible truth. Farmer_John is the Dark Lord of the Sith. He is the one we have been searching for.

Surely you can't be serious?

Dialgo
09-02-2008, 07:39 PM
nice job guys keep it up!

Seph
09-02-2008, 07:47 PM
Surely you can't be serious?

I am serious, and don't call me Surely.

Oh dang wrong movie :p

Fedora
09-02-2008, 08:29 PM
I am serious, and don't call me Surely.

Oh dang wrong movie :p

It's funny because just as I was writing that I said to myself, "hey, if he's smart he'll pick it up and write about the Shirley comment..."

lol, that is too much. Well played my friend.

Ascher
09-02-2008, 10:20 PM
Great work, thank you for all you guys are doing.

Araiti
09-02-2008, 11:00 PM
gj on the update :)

meccmax125
09-03-2008, 08:34 AM
Great update! :)

Newsound
09-03-2008, 02:29 PM
Always love these updates. Kyle's work has me very excited:O. The new planet sounds cool too.

I am not bummed really about Kashy, the new planet sounds like a logical fit to me.

Thanks for everyone's hard work!

Shnoo
09-03-2008, 06:53 PM
Ok, havent tried the emu for about 8 months or so. Logged on last night and tonight for the first time since then. Two words: just awesome! I am very impressed by how far along you guys are!! I know there are still bits missing but it already feels so much like the original game!

Keep up the good work guys!!

ttspawn
09-04-2008, 04:06 PM
Wow, that PCP thing looks great! i might have to host a server.. any1 here knows the basic requirements to host a server like this?

Paganpryde
09-04-2008, 05:18 PM
I never played Pre-NGE Always thought people were exaggerating about how SOE messed it up.. Then I logged into the test server last night and had my first look at pre-NGE... People were NOT exaggerating, I know there is a long way to go but all I can say is keep it up guys.. I can't wait until this project is compleated.

spazz5391
09-04-2008, 11:21 PM
I never played Pre-NGE Always thought people were exaggerating about how SOE messed it up.. Then I logged into the test server last night and had my first look at pre-NGE... People were NOT exaggerating, I know there is a long way to go but all I can say is keep it up guys.. I can't wait until this project is compleated.

its fun to be proved wrong sometimes...hah

Lion84
09-06-2008, 08:02 AM
Great work, devs! Keep it up!

The world is watching... :)

Seph
09-06-2008, 06:09 PM
Besides NPC missions, is there any info on the current status of regular missions you'd get from the terminal? Are there any major snags on either types of missions?

Thanks!

<3 you guys

Ramsey
09-07-2008, 01:50 AM
Besides NPC missions, is there any info on the current status of regular missions you'd get from the terminal? Are there any major snags on either types of missions?

Thanks!

<3 you guys

The mission pictured was from a terminal. There is a special "SWGEmu Mission Terminal" in the back left of the pic.

Kaelmythe
09-08-2008, 02:24 PM
I've gotta say, the PCP looks absolutely phenomenal. Amazing idea, guys. Keep up the great work!

cRush
09-09-2008, 12:02 PM
Added PCP Demo link: http://pcp.swgemu.com

HELL--RAISER
09-09-2008, 12:25 PM
Vey nice cRush. Good preview :cool:

Kell Aset
09-13-2008, 08:46 PM
Interesting update.