New pbem

[Mart]

we would not have random map, but designed with human starting locations. The thing is - the designer does not choose the location, but takes the last after all other chose.

We could play 5 of us. Hopefully Arcainite answers shortly. What do you think?

[Kataphraktoi]

So your saying make a random map, edit it for playability, then everyone chooses a spot publicly and mapmaker chooses last. Sounds good(like the brother sister system of having one divide a cookie and the other choosing first, ensures fairness)

Regarding 5 players-possibly bad idea although it would be cool, but it looks like arcanite is inactive

[Mart]

I designed map - it's not random. However I agree - it is not symmetrical, so there are differences in land shape. What can be helped in design is amount of land, bonuses etc.

Then all players take a look at the map before factions are in place and select best suited for them. The map creator takes the last location available. I should add, human locations are numbered, but different from AI locations - AI has some better stuff there.

A bit tedious, but when you have no CMN it would work ok, I think.

vets map - is this flat one? (not cylindrical) and with symmetrical land shape. I prefer smth with more unique stuff.

[Kataphraktoi]

Yes, vets is flat and almost perfectly symmetrical. There are errors(owing to the lack of a mirror function in the editor) but for the most part the only things differing in start positions are factions and player skill.

Now to await the others

[t_ras]

lets not take vet...

[JMarshFox]

I'm okay with whatever you guys decide, as long as the rules of the game are the same as before

[Kataphraktoi]

lets not take vet...

I think its loosly agreed to use marts map

but can you post the map here?

[Mart]

ok, shortly, i have it on the other comp.
But it's for 3 players now, and we do not know if Arcainite shows up.
So do you play or CMN, Kataprhraktoi?

[Kataphraktoi]

Im in i was going to take drones but then i remembered it was SMAC1 so ill get back here with a faction choice.

[Mart]

map for 3 human players, it will have to be changed

[Kataphraktoi]

I think ill play Morgan

[Mart]

T_ras, please select your faction

[Arcainite]

I'm ok with any # of players

I responded to the map e-mail finally. I am sorry it took so long. I will be playing the Spartans. It will be nice not to have an AI Spartan breathing down our necks.

[JMarshFox]

So are we using the new map now, or the old map, or another new one now that Arcainites back

[Mart]

It is nice to see you Arcainite. I have to prepare a new map - for 5 players. I'll let you know shortly.

Meanwhile, players are:

Arcainite ------: Spartans
JMarshFox ----: University
t_ras ----------: ...
Kataphractoi-: Morganities
mart7x5 ------: PK

Remaining factions:
- Gaians
- Hive
- Believers