Observer mode

[flash9286]

I read in a preview that people could observe an online game.

1. Can the host turn this feature off?

2. How many people can watch?


3. Do the observers cause lag?

[Bridger]

observer mode would rock! i'd like to hear those questions answered also.

[flash9286]

Here is where i fount the observer mode

http://www.bighugegames.com/riseofnations/faq.html

Q: Will I be able to record my games to play back later or share with others?

The game does include a recorded game feature that will allow you or others to play back games at a later time. There is also an "Observer" mode that allows players to join and watch games as they happen, but they are unable to interfere with anything that goes on.

[tniem]

Seems like that would be option that you could turn off by simply closing the room. Although BHG would have to tell you for sure.

[Brian Reynolds]

Couple notes about Observer mode--

* Host can choose on whether to allow observer players into the game (that is, he can boot them or close empty game slots).

* Related point: host has a checkbox (game setting) which controls whether observer players are allowed to "chat to all" during the game. If box is not checked, Observers can only chat to other observers.

* Observer players each use one of the 8 player slots for the game (so you can't observe an 8 player game)

* My understanding from Jason is that the Observer players aren't allowed to cause lag (algorithmically they use a different method for receiving game information, and in any event if their connection creates too many issues they're just dropped).

* If you're an observer you can view the map from any player's point of view, or remove all the fog-of-war and view everything. You can click on buildings and find out what is going on inside, etc.

* In observer mode the Data display (the optional stats at the lower right) shows extra information about the players.

Brian

[Solver]

* My understanding from Jason is that the Observer players aren't allowed to cause lag (algorithmically they use a different method for receiving game information, and in any event if their connection creates too many issues they're just dropped).

Quite perfect, I hope that you guys were really able to make this practice. I just imagine knowing of some big tourney final match in advance and visiting it to observe the game live... sweet!

[flash9286]

thank you Brian. Sounds like a cool feature.

[ixnay]

That is awesome.

[tniem]

Nothing gets past you guys... Excellent work.