PDA

View Full Version : Brainstorming for Multiplayer Guide



Dionysus9
11-27-2002, 02:10
I think its time the multiplayer community put together a guide to help introduce new players to the multiplayer experience and give them an idea of what to expect (and how to behave)[EDIT: I would not presume to "tell someone how to behave" but rather, I endeavor to inform what behavior is discouraged] when they join us online.

I am proposing that we come up with a Multiplayer Guide written by players for new players. I don't have the time to write it all by myself, but with a little help (and maybe some archives cutting and pasting) we whould be able to get this thing done without too awfully much trouble. Ideally it could be a permanent post at the top of the Multiplayer forum for new players to read as a "welcome" of sorts. [Edit: Thanks to all those who have contributed.]

Here is my outline of topics that should be addressed in such a guide. If anyone is interesting in helping to write portions of the guide, please post your contribution and I can cut and paste it into the finished product. Ok, here we go (this is a rough skeleton):

I. Introduction

Greetings noble Lord (or Lady as the case may be). Welcome to Medieval Total War ("MTW"), Multiplayer. This Guide should help you get used to the multiplayer interface and act as a reference for players who are new to online MTW. If you have any questions regarding online play you should post them at The Guild, the forums off of www.totalwar.org ("the .org"), specifically in the "Jousting Fields." This guide is not intended as an exhaustive "how to", but rather as an introduction to what you may expect when you log on to the gamespy server. If you have questions about unit-stats, go to www.totalwarassembly.com (or the .org forums). If you have questions about strategy/tactics go to http://shogun-academy.tripod.com/ (the shogun academy--although the units may be slightly different, all of the morale system and the vast majority of tactics remain the same in MTW).

A. What you need
1. A CD Key (you must have purchased MTW)
Although you can play single player ("SP") with a pirate copy you cannot play Multiplayer ("MP") without the CD Key that comes with the purchased copy. Please support Total War and buy a copy. The CD key is inside the CD case on a white sticker.

2. An Internet connection
Duh You can play LAN with your friends without an internet connection, but then you wouldn't really need this guide. If you want to play on the internet you gotta have a connection.

3. Patience (this game requires some patience)
Unlike many simple arcade games, Medieval Total War requires patience to play (and unfortunately, sometimes in setting up a game). Don't let this scare you off. Patience is a virtue. MTW Multi is worth the wait. There will be some frustration and waiting involved with waiting in the lobby - you wanna start fighting straight away - but there are games and there are games and the great games are worth waiting for and sometimes they take some work on behalf of the host. Once your in a game you have to wait while everyone picks units and setups their men on the battlefield - use this time - If you are joining a group game talk to your allies - hopefully they will talk back and you can plan you battle. In setup talk about where you are setting up but remember for team games united you STAND and divided you will FALL so make sure you are united with your allies and stick to the plan - sometimes the plans need not be volumes - Ill go left - this is a plan - hold this hill - thats another plan. Take the time you need to place your men but dont take forever you can move them in game if a few units arnt right. Attacking can be harder than defending so be prepared to lose alot if you attack alot - everyone loses and some more frequently than others - some days you win alot - other days you wont - but dont despair - just have fun - YES EVEN LOSING CAN BE FUN - The point Im making is sometimes youll drop from games - sometimes your men will turn and run for no apparent reason - sometimes youll make blunders - sometimes all the games on the board will be crap

but every now and then you will get a battle -

not just a battle but a GREAT BATTLE -

a battle with new friends who are cheering for you - a battle where you and your general will be surrounded but the enemy begins to waver - you cry out to your allies - ON ME - they counter charge - the enemy lines faulter - the battle flows back and forth across the battlefield like a red tide of blood -

Your general sits on a hill top and in the valley to each side he sees huge armies of thousands smashing together - the screams of the men - the music is drumming in your ears - You YELL - TO THE DEATH and charge in to join the midst of the battle - arrows like black rain whistle past your ears -

You and the enemy general meet in the midst of the frey and do battle not just for your life but the outcome of this fight between these two brave men could rule the day - ONE will stand ONE will fall - will the god of war shine on YOU this day - or HIM

the worst of the battle is over you gather what is left of what was once a thousand men their ranks a meagre few bloodied and exhausted men - you enemy gathers what is left of his force - you stand and face each other - the wind howls with a fresh breeze and the first droplets of rain start to fall - between you is a sea of bodies - ten deep in places - you silently salute him and march your army off the field - you have lost the day - BUT WHAT A HELL OF A DAY IT WAS

THESE ARE THE GREAT BATTLES WHERE HEROS AND LEGENDS ARE MADE
THIS IS WHAT YOU WAITED FOR
THIS IS WHAT EVERYONE IN THE ROOM IS WAITING FOR

and every now and again the internet gods smile on you get it - you will remember the greatest battles always. [Contributed by Yun Dog]

4. Patch v.1.1.
Like many games, there is currently a "patch" (update) for this game. You do not strictly need the patch (version 1.1) to play online, but you wont be able to play the vast majority of players without it. You can only play with people who have the same version as you. The patch can be downloaded from the official site or from the .org. It must be installed. Make sure MTW is not running while it is being installed.

5. Proper Specifications:

The Number One Multiplayer Problem

This problem is really very serious as it has, and is driving both new and experienced away from the online game.

Please, please, please do not come to multiplayer without the proper equipment If you do otherwise, you will be ruining other peoples fun, and quite literally killing the game.

Remember that little readme file you didn’t read when you first fired up the program? Or maybe you did quickly read it but also quickly forgot because you really just wanted to get on with learning the game at the time? Let’s take another look.

It gives minimum (350 MHz /128 MB), recommended (600 MHz/128 MB), and ideal (1.2 GHz 256 MB) system requirements to play MTW.

After that is a little blurb called:

REQUIRED FOR MULTIPLAYER That says, the minimum specification is based on 2 players. More than 2 players participating requires a higher specification incrementally. A total of 8 players will need the ideal multiplayer specification (750 MHz) or higher for smooth game play.

Everyone just loves to blame GameSpy for drops and lags, but it’s players with poor internet connections and/or lame computers that are at fault. If you want to play online, please do whatever you have to do to get things right. We all do want you there, but only if you have the right stuff.

II. Logging On
A. Creating a Gamespy account
First you will have to create a Gamespy account. Start up MTW and select Multiplayer from the menu. [Note: you will see a "v1.1" in the upper left corner of the main menu if you have installed the patch]. Select "Register on Gamespy" and follow the instructions. You don't have to use your real name, but you do have to fill in all the required fields. Make sure you keep clicking NEXT until your registration is complete (you will be referred to the official www.totalwar.com site). When selecting your name try to stick to letters. Blank spaces dont work, so if you want a space in your name use "____" an underscore.
B. Shut down uneccessary programs
MTW puts a fair amount of strain on your memory and CPU. For best results shut down programs that are not strictly necessary (such as AOL instant messenger, internet explorer, and any other programs you might find have an icon in the lower right of your windows display [right click the icon and hit exit]).
C. Turn off your firewall if you want to host
Playing MTW MP involves a lot of data sharing and if you have a firewall up you may not be able to host a game (although you should be able to play just fine). ZoneAlarm is the most common culprit. Turn it off.
D. Enter your Logon info in the Logon Information window of MTW--After you have done all of the above, select Multiplayer from the MTW menu. Click "Play on Gamespy". Enter your account details in the logon screen, it should say "Logon Information" at the top and a green Gamespy logo will be present if you have v1.1 installed. Remember to enter your CD Key (you only have to enter it ONCE, even though it seems like you have to do it everytime). Click "Continue" on the bottom and hopefully you be logged on If the game seems to lock up (even your mouse), give it a minute (or two) and you may just pull through. If the game crashes, reboot your computer and try it again. If problems persist, see Erado at the Apothecary in the Guild at the .org. lol. its just south down beggers lane past the monestary.
E. Common problems and their solutions
1. Account Details incorrect
Restart MTW and try again. Sometimes you have to close the game and restart it. If this problem persists, recheck your account details and try again. If you are still having problems, ask Erado in the Apothecary (at the Guild...www.totalwar.org forums, remember?).
2. CD Key entry problems
Make sure you use dashes, capital letters, and use zeros instead of "o"s (ohs).
3. Other problems
Im sure there are others, but cant think of any right this second.

III. The Lobby
A. Etiquette
Generally, polite behaviour will be rewarded. If you are mean or abusive people wont like you and wont want to join your games or play with you. Please dont use foul language--I've noticed Americans can handle a bit more in the way of crude language than some other folks, please be respectful of our international community. This game is played around the world and someone's kids could be looking over daddy's shoulder at any time. This is just a matter of courtesy to others. If you insist on being a jerk, you may find yourself on everyones IGNORE list--or even worse--you may be banned from peoples games. At the most extreme your CD Key will be revoked by the publisher (it does happen).
If you must talk smack, do it in private chat please.
B. Private messages/Public Messages/No Spamming please
On the right side you will see a list of peoples names who are logged on. You will also see a scrolling list of messages as people talk with pulic chat. If you click on a persons name you can speak with them privately.
C. Commands (#ignore, #unignore)
If someone is annoying you type:
#ignore [THEIR NAME HERE]

Some people have whacky names like XxX_zFD_ . You must type the name in exactly if you want it to work. You can use the #unignore function the same way.

You can also hold CTRL and click on peoples names to add them to your Private Chat Selection. If the Chat cursor says "to selection>" you will send a private message to each selected person.

Edit: This was posted in December 2002 by Gregoshi of the Org:

"The Situation
Recently there have been complaints made to CA and GameSpy regarding unacceptable behaviour in the GameSpy foyer. This behaviour included harrassment of and threats made to some individuals. Such actions are intolerable regardless of the situation. Whether it be here at the Org or in the GameSpy foyer, the online experience should be enjoyable for everyone. After all, we are here to play a game.

The CA Policy
CA has stated quite strongly that they have zero tolerance for harrassing and threatening behaviour. To help them eliminate the problem, CA will be keeping chat logs of the foyer postings for confirmation of complaints. Persons found to be harrassing and making physical threats of any nature will have their CD keys terminated and their GameSpy accounts terminated. Such abuse is in direct violation of the terms of service of GameSpy.

The Org Policy
The above policy is not the Org's, nor is this notice a warning from the Org. We post this notice at the request of CA to help communicate their message that the community be more vigilant in self policing the foyer.

Members of the Comunity who feel they have been threatened in the GameSpy foyer, or who have concerns over threats they have seen made there are encouraged to contact CA and report the matter. You may report an incident by sending an email to Richie "The Shogun" Skinner at webmaster@totalwar.com

The Guild Forums
We at the Org will not enter into debate on this issue. The issue is closed with the release of this notice. All discussions on the subject will be removed. While we fully support CA and GameSpy's stand on the issue, the Org is not the place to debate this topic. "

---

IV. Joining a game
A. How to join
B. What types of game to join if you are new (1v1, 2v2)
C. Being asked to leave...its ok.
D. Common problems and solutions
1. Not "seeing" games
i. firewalls
ii. refresh by relogging
iii. refresh by hosting and then quitting

V. Selecting your Army
A. Factions / Colors
B. Units and Upgrades
C. Cavalry/Artillery are available if you click on icon
D. Choosing an Attacking Army
E. Choosing a Defensive Army

Picking Units for a Defending Army [contributed by vexatious]

This is a strategy that I've shared with a number of new players that I have played with/against. As a neophyte defender, try to take a balanced army. My standard formulation is as follows:

3 Missile Units
5 Spears
4 Infantry
4 Cavalry

I generally use the following opening formation:

MMM
I SSSSS I
C II C
CC

Missile Units- Missile units are critical for two reasons. First, without missiles, you are subject to ranged attacks. That's not good. As a defender, you have a natural advantage in that you decide where the engagement will take place. This is advantageous in two ways. First, the attacker must move, and hence fatigue, its army in order to engage. Second, you can take advantage of available terrain bonuses by setting up on a hill, around a forest, etc... If you don't have missiles, an attacker can simply pepper you with missiles until you capitulate and engage the attacker on its ground.

The second reason to take missile units is that they can be used to adversely effect the morale of enemy foot troops. After the initial missile volley exchange, it is very important to continue using missile attacks against your enemy's foot troops as they engage your foot troops. Doing so will cause targeted enemy units to suffer a loss of morale, making them easier to rout.

Which kind of missile unit should you take? I suggest pavise arbalests (High Period). PA's have a sheild to protect against incoming missile strikes, do well against armored troops, are fairly durable in melee and do not exhaust their ammo very quickly. The downside is that they have a long reload time and move slowly. [Thanks Vex]

[Edit: this was contributed by Cheetah]
This is a good formation vex, but on defence you can take a more missile heavy army. For example:

5 Missile
5 Spears
4 Cavs
2 Shock inf.

deploy like this:

M M M M
C S S S S S C
C M C
I I

[Thanks Cheetah]



F. Please dont waste time selecting your army. In a 4v4 you have 7 other people waiting to play. If you need to go to the bathroom or grab a drink, select your army first and then take care of it. You should have a good idea what units you want before you go to the army selection screen. If you take too long selecting your army you will make everyone else in the game angry with you (even your allies) from the get-go. You will also look like an ultra-newbie--so give unit selection some thought before you get to the selction screen.

VI. Deployment
A. Greetings (HF,GL, and others)--In game Chat T/Y
B. Color and deployment Zones
In a 4v4 there are (obviously) 4 deployment zones per side. Standard terminology for each zone is:

Center,
Reserve (or backup),
Right,
Left.

Reserve is always located in the left back. Right is always off by himself. Left is always set forward a bit into enemy territory (right in front of enemies reserve position). Center is obviously, well, center.

In v.1.1 your deployment zone is determined by the COLORS you and your teammates select in the army selection screen. In v.1.0 it was determined by the FACTIONS you and your teammates chose.

Colors are ranked in the order they appear on the army selection screen, from top left to right. Almohads (orange) are ranked highest and Turks are ranked lowest (green). Deployment zones are determined by the rank of your color, and they follow this pattern:
1) Highest ranking color = Center
2) Second highest = Reserve
3) Third highest = Right
4) Fourth highest = Left

Colors are ranked as follows:
1) Almos (Orange)
2) Byz (Purple)
3) Danes (white)
4) Egypt (tan)
5) English (dk. red)
6) French (dk.blue)
7) German (black)
8) Italian (dk.green)
9) Polish (lt.red)
10) Russian (lt.blue)
11) Spanish (yellow)
12) Turks (lt green)

So if you select Orange (Almohads) you will always be Center. If you select Turkish Green you will always be Left. That is as far as the "always" go, because, lets say the enemy has taken Orange and Purple--the Orange enemy will surely be center, but who would our center be? It will be whoever has the next highest ranking color.

If we all understand this system we will always know:
1) where each of us will deploy
2) which enemy each of us will face.

This will produce an advantage.

So when you are looking at our colors remember we will deploy in the following order: Center, Reserve, Right, Left.

The enemy will deploy in the same order, based on their colors. Center, Reserve, Right, Left (remembering that they will mirror us, so enemy "right" is actually facing our Left, and visa versa).

C. Attackers face down mini, Defenders face up
IMPORTANT for 4v4's: Attackers FACE DOWN THE MINIMAP. Defenders FACE UP THE MINIMAP. The game will try to auto-deploy some positions facing the center of the minimap--this will normally cause you to lose, so make sure you face the right direction (up or down depending on if you are attacker or defender).

D. Dont setup too far forward (back half ofyour circle)

VII. The Battle
A. What your allies will expect of you
B. Movement
C. Combat
D. Morale (rout penalties effect your allies)
E. Droppers suck
So youve played a team battle but you got wiped out in the early part of the game and your allies are still there - why not to quit - everyone gets dark about having been eliminated from the game - and you want to start a new game - but there are 2 dudes left in this game that were counting on you. When you have been wiped out of a team game - BUT THIS NEED NOT BE THE END OF THE GAME You go to an unresricted camera mode - from here you can view the whole battle field all the armies and all the battles - you can still help your allies - and its also a good place to chat with people and have a laugh about the game without all the noise of the lobby. This is a very valuable part of the game because you can watch the tactics both of your allies and your enemies and you can LEARN new tactics and spy for your allies - YOU CAN CHEER THEM ON TOO

On one occasion when I thought I had in part been responsible for losing the game - my ally rallied one of his last units and the game came down to his general and the enemies general and he won - Im glad I hung around to watch and cheer him on

In another battle I got knocked out of a Free For ALL 8 player battle Royale - but I stayed and watched the battles - some of the battles and tactics I got to see were ausome and in the end everyone was watching the last two guys taking each other on cheering for one or the other - was Soooo glad I stayed for that one

Other times I had only a few gun units left but this was all the fire support my allies men needed to win Other time you can distract the enemies watching your half dead army while your ally sneaks up on them

If you quit you miss all this - you miss the opportunity to talk to the other dudes in the game and you miss the chance to learn new tactics.

So if you lose dont suck by quitting hang around and see how it all ends - you might make some new friends

In a single 1v1 game it can be worse still - if you just quit you dont get to see the stats or the valor gained and you wont learn which units did well and which one lets you down - you miss the chance to find out what your enemy thought and how they beat u - BUT WORSE STILL - you miss the opportunity and the HONOUR of congratulating your opponent on beating you - he knows you will be back and you could well beat him next time - he will appreciate that you hung around to see the end of the battle - there is a wait between battles - you may as well see through what you began - some of the best generals and most reknowned vets were not the ones who won every battle but the ones who were the most fun to play [Contributed by Yun Dog, thanks] Your skills will improve quickly if you have the patience to learn from your own mistakes and from the skills of others.

VIII. Some Notes on Strategy (Contribute by Skomath)

The Battle: Its Parts and Strategies
2/6/2003
by Matt Gorski

Introduction:
This guide is going to focus on the different parts of a battle (e.g. skirmishing), give the player some overall tips for each part, give some specific strategies for the section, and provide replays featuring some excellent examples of each. The type of battle this guide will focus on is a 1v1 with about 15000 florins. Though some replays may feature team battles it will talk about them in the context of a 1v1 because that is the simplest type of battle (well not quite but you’ll understand eventually) and its tactics can be adapted to team play. Hopefully by gaining a better understanding of the battle, the player will be more equipped to tackle more advanced tactics.Also, If you don’t know your controls and hotkeys, learn them I won’t explain them here so you may not know how to do what I’m talking about. You’ll only learn so much from this guide, so get a teacher or a couple games with a veteran supervising you.

Choosing your army:
Despite some players’ insistence that this is the last thing they need advice on, it is the first. Having the right units means you’ll be able to do what you want without thinking “hey, maybe I should have upgraded the valour” as your unit flees the field. I’ll provide some exact 15k armies to get you started:
Byzantine Army:
Qty Unit Valor Armor Weap.
2 Pronoiai Allagion 2
4 Byzantine Infantry 4
3 Varangian Gaurds 1
2 Spearmen 4
4 Pavise Arbalesters 1

French Army:
Qty Unit Valor Armor Weap.
3 Chivalric Knights 1
4 Order Foot 2
4 Chivalric MAA 3
4 Pavise Arbalesters 2
1 Turcopole 2 1

English Army
Qty Unit Valor Armor Weap.
4 Chivalric Knights 1
4 Chivalric MAA 3
2 Order Foot 2
2 Billmen 3
4 Pavise Arbalesters 1


German Army:
Qty Unit Valor Armor Weap.
3 Chivalric Knights 1
3 Chivalric MAA 3
2 Swiss Halberdiers 2
2 Order Foot 2
2 Halberdiers 3
4 Pavise Arbalesters 2


These are very basic armies and you may see people doing crazy things like all cavalry armies but don’t be tempted into using them unless you are too good to be reading this in the first place.

Setting up:
Setting up is the stage on the battle map when you can position your units without having to wait for them to walk there.

Formation:
The first thing you’ll want to do is pick a spot right in the middle of the map and set up your formation. There are a variety of these so here’s a replay of me going through several different set-ups with the same army, and then positioning it.

Positioning:
This is pretty simple to do, but tactically complicated. Select your whole army and then stick it on the map where you want it. The complicated part is selecting the right spot. Here are a couple points:


Don't set up too close to the front

Set up where you can gain high ground quickly or are on it already

Don't set up in the corner (no one likes campers)

Trees provide cover, but spears and cavalry are weak in them and it's hard to keep track of all your units.


Grouping:
Now group your units. I suggest dividing them either into types (swords, spears, cavalry) if you use them in one line, or sides (front line, left flank, right flank).

Maneuvering:
Now that the battle has begun you’ll want to move your army to where you want the battle to take place. Move in small increments so if you need to, you can change direction. Stop just out of archer range.

Positioning:
This positioning is different than above. Basically move your spears to where the enemy will have his horses and so on in the rock, paper, scissors fashion. Again, this is more complicated than it sounds because of the varieties of different troops and terrain. This you may have to learn on your own. Again I stress getting a teacher. Another option is not to position and rely on flanking to win the day. This is used best when you don’t have time to position, with order foot in the front (strongly defensive) and the left/right flanking groups.


Skirmishing:
Your goal during skirmishing should be to wear down the enemy force in numbers and fatigue while suffering minimal casualties. Don’t get too cocky or you’ll end up worse than the enemy, be on guard to counter his maneuvers, and don’t be wasteful.

The Archer Duel:
This is probably the most dreaded and boring part of the battle, but often the most crucial. The idea is to be able to inflict damage on the enemy’s melee units while receiving few to your own. To do this you’ll have to get your archers further in front of your front line than the enemy has his. You’ll have to use a hill or trees to do this, or just be a little more daring. You can either guard your archers with spears behind them or cavalry. The enemy will probably try to kill some of your archers with fast cavalry so when you see them coming either send your spears close to your archers to change his mind or send your cavalry out to kill him. Protecting your archers with heavy cavalry on the end slightly out of range of the enemy archers is preferable to using spears, which are often too slow to save your archers. Meanwhile target your archers on expensive enemy units or ones with low morale. Use your own light cavalry to charge unprotected enemy archers and then either make them run back or hit the rout button to get them out of there really quick, though you might not be able to get them back.

Other Tactics:

Use horse archers to shoot lightly armored units, but keep away from enemy archers.

Use cavalry to trap a slow enemy unit too separated to get help.

Hide a unit at the beginning of the battle and then rush out in an ambush.

Shoot at an enemy who didn't take light cavalry with your horse archers.
He will chase you with his heavy cavalry which won't be able to catch you.
This will hurt the heavy cavalry's fatigue.



The Melee:
Okay now, down to business. There are two types of situations you may encounter now: having the enemy suddenly rushing at you, or vice versa. When both armies rush at each other consider it attacking.

Defending:
First of all get your archers back behind your front line. Next, move your units so your front line is about the same width as his and with the same number of units. You now have two options as to what to do with your flanks. First, you can move out your units out around the enemy’s flanks and hope to break through on the edges, or hold down your corners and plug gaps with your cavalry. When you notice your front line may be breaking you can easily change the tide by sending a cavalry charge to a problematic area. Support wavering units with your own archer fire and move your general close to them. Another trick could be to move your general away from your weak spots to draw away enemy attacks and lead them into ambushes. This is especially useful with the Byzantines because most of the troops aren’t affected by their general’s death. Killing the enemy general can also help you turn the tide or seal the coffin.

Attacking:
You don’t have much of a choice as to when to defend, but attacking is different. Usually you will be attacking either because the enemy has made a mistake and you want to capitalize on it or waiting around any longer will get you killed. Never attack because you’re bored of skirmishing. Since your army may not have an easily definable middle from the positioning stage, you may not be able to correctly place the whole thing at once. First start your archers moving to a little ways behind where the fighting will be. Next aim your flanking to where you want them to be and then your front line. Since cavalry is the fastest move that last. When everyone is moving make them run their fastest. Make units attack the ones you positioned them across from. Use free units to flank or help suffering ones.

The Regrouping:
Well someone just faired better in the melee and if you or your opponent haven’t totally routed of the field you have some units waiting to do something. Gather your units at a spot roughly in the middle of where they all are now, hopefully on a hill or in the trees. Use cavalry to “cover” slow units so the enemy won’t be tempted to pick them off.
Reform your army much as you did your first time, except put units in deep formation with weak ones in back. Rest your army until there are two bars of fatigue and then move it towards the enemy.

The Final Conflict:
Now for the final clash that will decide the winner. Conduct this in much the same way as the first conflict but remember your units have lower morale so support them with weakened units. Only skirmish here if you have a lot more archers than your opponent. In the battle just hit all of his units best you can and watch his your morale. In the final battle horses are a lot stronger than they are at first because of the reduced sizes and valour gains so use them to take on large units and beware of the enemy’s.

IX. The Aftermath
A. Results and what they mean
B. Saying thank you or "GG", or not--being a good sport
C. Other post-game issues

IX. Hosting your first game
A. Firewalls
B. Common options (morale, fatigue, 10k-20k florins, etc.)
C. Seasons
D. Commands (#ban, #unban, #kick)
E. DO NOT DROP OR ESC FROM A GAME IF YOU ARE THE HOST

X. Having fun and getting a good reputation

---------

So anyway, there is my outline for what we need to tell new multiplayers. Please feel free to criticise, add, or delete anything you think is important. I think we could get more people interested if they werent so intimidated by the system.

YunDog
11-27-2002, 03:02
Dion,

I think youve got a great idea there - my only comment is the fact you have to have a whole chapter just on how to log on and log on problems really epitamises the MTW and back further the STW problem - If I was noob and I was trying this game - I would goto multiplay - If I couldnt log on Id goto the forum - see this great guide on playing the game - see there was a whole chapter of reasons why the game might or might not work and that there was a whole etequite of behaviour - and think hmm maybe if I lose my job and am unemployed for 6 months Ill think about trying to play this game.

The greatest training tool for newbies would have been multiplayer with AI - so a vet and a newbie could sit in a game against the AI at whatever level they want and thus the noobie could be trained against a predictable AI whos army could be customised to demonstate things - but this was never included as part of the game - and the game has suffered for it. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif


but your idea would be better than nothing which is what they have now - I mean the instruction book you get with game is inadequate even for SP - let alone multi - ah for the days when youd buy a PC game and get this huge volume with it - now they are no better than platform games.

Dionysus9
11-27-2002, 03:32
I totally agree. Just the fact that we, as a community of players, have to come up with documentation to explain how the multi system works is really quite rediculous. I'm sure not doing this out of love for the publisher.

Its a complex game and a complex multi interface. CA didn't include good docs for the SP part of the game(let alone MP) so if we want to encourage more MP play, I think we have to do it ourselves. I just want to see a lot of people out there getting better and having fun...it builds more competition for all of us in the long run.

I agree that people might be put off by the complexity of the documentation I'm proposing....thats why I have included "patience" as something you need to have in order to play MP http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif. But I also agree, its better than nothing.

Jochi Khan
11-27-2002, 18:12
Hello Dionysus9
It sounds like a good idea but I think the reading would have to be pretty well contained and brief.
Unless you have plenty of time to read and digest movements manouvers attack and defend strategies along with all the other things involved, I think it would look pretty daunting to a new-comer.
A good point is the fact that it could be 'printed-out' if the person has a printer attached to their computer. I have found this an advantage with some of the posts that i have wanted to refer back to.
YunDog, Hi, As you say one to one instruction is the best way to learn, I have been very thankfull for my training in this way. Shogun is the only game I have played. Some 6 months now.
Most of my experience has been gained just playing online and being helped along.
Still, it's a good idea, better than nothing and if it will improve the numbers playing online, Good Luck.
...........Jochi

Dionysus9
11-27-2002, 19:06
I am planning on just including basic stuff. Like how to move the army as a group, how to turn it as a group. A little bit about rout penalties so people will no when to abandon an ally and when it is worth trying to help.

A paragraph or two under each heading would be all that is really needed. Yeah, it might look daunting, but I would hope the players would know most of the stuff anyway (from playing SP). It's gonna be awhile till I get a chance to write it up though...

baz
11-28-2002, 08:27
what happened to the shogun academy? i always thought there would be a medieval one too http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

ShadesWolf
11-28-2002, 09:04
This is a very good thread....

and I believe will be very useful for newbies

tootee
11-28-2002, 12:17
Baz, Shogun Academy is still around, although I have stopped updating it. But the traffic is still there *and I thought most has stopped playing STW online*.

I have a Medieval Academy set up but hidden somewhere, as I yet have time to write and publish the material *about 50% porting from Shogun Academy*. But I think Shogun Academy is still somewhat relevant to MTW online gamers, although there are some difference in the control now.

Currently I have two personal projects for MTW in mind, but gotta prioritize as to which is more useful to the MP community. However the tarot cards foretell that I'll fall madly in love soon and that may slow things down abit http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

baz
11-28-2002, 16:48
your right tottee http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif and i understand the time constraints http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/dizzy.gif

and good luck in the love department too http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

ElmarkOFear
11-28-2002, 16:55
Tootie stop sending me love emails I'm a married man I don't care what the Tarot cards say http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Postino
11-30-2002, 21:46
he is sending love lertters to you too??? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

perhaps something to tack on to the guide at the end (for the devout reader) would be a summary of the basic units of the major factions and their best uses. Thius would be lengthy and so i say it should be after all the importqant issues, but i also think that a complete noob would benifit and be thankful.

i would volunteer my services for this "chapter" so contact me if you wish flexorill@yahoo.com

ShadesWolf
11-30-2002, 23:29
I will have a look at this guid thing and add a few bits...

As a first place of call, I would suggest all newbies visit Total War Assembly (http://www.totalwarassembly.com/waracademy.cfm)this is an excellent site, that analysis units and faction.

Dionysus9
12-03-2002, 02:32
I have a few minutes to add some stuff to the "Guide", so I will just go up and edit it in...

vexatious
12-03-2002, 23:33
hmmmm....I'm not sure that there are answers for the most common multiplayer problems. are there? What do you do when you can't see other games in the lobby? what do you do when the game consistently crashes before logon? after logon but before a game? during the transition from the lobby to a game? during the transition from a game to the lobby?

My point is that none of us should be going out of our way to encourage others to play this game online--to do so would be a disservice. I played online for about a month. I LOVE this game, but I will not subject myself to the torture of trying to play online any more. I haven't played online for 3 weeks now and I don't plan to return. I still enjoy reading the forums...I secretly hope that a new patch will be announced that will correct the online problems. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

NinjaKilla
12-04-2002, 00:09
Where has fucy gotten to? I haven't seen him around for a while. He did a similar site for MI, I wonder if he started updating it.

MagyarKhans Cham
12-04-2002, 01:26
vexa, belive me there will not be a patch, but our hopes are for teh add on solving these things. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pissed.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/redface.gif

Dionysus9
12-04-2002, 02:39
Quote[/b] (vexatious @ Dec. 03 2002,16:33)]hmmmm....I'm not sure that there are answers for the most common multiplayer problems. are there? [SOME] What do you do when you can't see other games in the lobby? [EITHER RELOG, OR HOST A GAME, HIT CONTINUE, and then EXIT THE GAME] what do you do when the game consistently crashes before logon? [REMOVE ALL MEMORY RESIDENT PROGRAMS AND RESTART, SHUTDOWN AND REBOOT IF NECESSARY, UPDATE DIRECT X DRIVERS, DEFRAG HD] after logon but before a game? [RELOG] during the transition from the lobby to a game? [RELOG] during the transition from a game to the lobby? [RELOG]

My point is that none of us should be going out of our way to encourage others to play this game online--to do so would be a disservice. I played online for about a month. I LOVE this game, but I will not subject myself to the torture of trying to play online any more. I haven't played online for 3 weeks now and I don't plan to return. I still enjoy reading the forums...I secretly hope that a new patch will be announced that will correct the online problems. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif
I'm sorry you feel that way Vex, and I understand what you mean. It's pretty frustrating sometimes, but the incredible battles and good cameraderie make up for the bugs in my opinion. If you pw your games the newbs dont come straight from SP and cause out of sync's--thats really the biggest problem because the loggin on and off speed has been dramatically improved by the patch.

Still, it is not a finished product and I wish they would patch it. What are the chances Viking Invasion will help? not much.

Magyar Khan
12-04-2002, 02:53
not much dion? where is that based upon? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/idea.gif

Dionysus9
12-04-2002, 09:03
I dont understand, Magy, do you mean what do I base my statement that log on/off speed is better?

My speed is better. I can relog in under 30 seconds if I dont crash, which is much better than before. I would wait 30 seconds just to log off, then at least 30 more to get back on.

Otherwise, there arent any "fixes" for the bugs, just patient ways to deal with them.

Edit: Actually, I shouldnt say its the patch because people without the patch have experienced improved logging on and off speed. Anyway, the bugs are frustrating but liveable.

AMPage
12-04-2002, 09:40
Right, i don't think the Viking Invasion will help much either to fix the bugs. From STW to MTW not much has been done to fix multiplayer problems, but it's either take it or leave it, cause the totalwars are for single player.

I'll buy the add-on because i like this type of gaming, controling massive armies, where it takes skill to win, well most of the time. So, untill another game comes out that is better than this having awesome graphics, better engagement with troops, multiplayer support, and much more, mtw it is for now.

The wait is on and i have a feeling it's gonna be a long one... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

MagyarKhans Cham
12-04-2002, 16:27
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif (my Khan and me crying)

FasT
12-04-2002, 23:00
i hate to see grown me cry http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif What the hell i'll join them...
Anywaz good thread this will surely help other who come online......

YunDog
12-05-2002, 09:00
Re: why noobies should persist with total war online

As Dion had mentioned in a previous chapter the game takes some patience. But wait before you switch off It is worth the wait. There will be some frustration and waiting involved with waiting in the lobby - you wanna start fighting straight away - but there are games and there are games and the great games are worth waiting for and sometimes they take some work on behalf of the host. Once your in a game you have to wait while everyone picks units and setups their men on the battlefield - use this time - If you are joining a group game talk to your allies - hopefully they will talk back and you can plan you battle. In setup talk about where you are setting up but remember for team games united you STAND and divided you will FALL so make sure you are united with your allies and stick to the plan - sometimes the plans need not be volumes - Ill go left - this is a plan - hold this hill - thats another plan. Take the time you need to place your men but dont take forever you can move them in game if a few units arnt right. Attacking can be harder than defending so be prepared to lose alot if you attack alot - everyone loses and some more frequently than others - some days you win alot - other days you wont - but dont despair - just have fun - YES EVEN LOSING CAN BE FUN - The point Im making is sometimes youll drop from games - sometimes your men will turn and run for no apparent reason - sometimes youll make blunders - sometimes all the games on the board will be crap

but every now and then you will get a battle -

not just a battle but a GREAT BATTLE -

a battle with new friends who are cheering for you - a battle where you and your general will be surrounded but the enemy begins to waver - you cry out to your allies - ON ME - they counter charge - the enemy lines faulter - the battle flows back and forth across the battlefield like a red tide of blood -

Your general sits on a hill top and in the valley to each side he sees huge armies of thousands smashing together - the screams of the men - the music is drumming in your ears - You YELL - TO THE DEATH and charge in to join the midst of the battle - arrows like black rain whistle past your ears -

You and the enemy general meet in the midst of the frey and do battle not just for your life but the outcome of this fight between these two brave men could rule the day - ONE will stand ONE will fall - will the god of war shine on YOU this day - or HIM

the worst of the battle is over you gather what is left of what was once a thousand men their ranks a meagre few bloodied and exhausted men - you enemy gathers what is left of his force - you stand and face each other - the wind howls with a fresh breeze and the first droplets of rain start to fall - between you is a sea of bodies - ten deep in places - you silently salute him and march your army off the field - you have lost the day - BUT WHAT A HELL OF A DAY IT WAS

THESE ARE THE GREAT BATTLES WHERE HEROS AND LEGENDS ARE MADE
THIS IS WHAT YOU WAITED FOR
THIS IS WHAT EVERYONE IN THE ROOM IS WAITING FOR

and every now and again the internet gods smile on you get it - you will remember the greatest battles always http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

Naagi
12-06-2002, 00:14
Well cool i did find this somewhere. Thanks for starting this guide as ive only been playing MTW about a month now and havent tried the mp part yet. Was curious as to what the mp required, though had some basic knowledge of mp games. Anyways it appears ill have to hold off on joining them till i can afford an actual copy of the game as im playing on a pirated copy right now. Boo-hiss. I know but when your broke you go with what you got. So soon as i can get it ill try to log on and let you guy romp on me some, meanwhile ill stay in sp and learn the units a lot better.

Naagi http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

Dionysus9
12-06-2002, 01:41
Yun,
Awesome post--I've meshed it in with the "patience" part of the Guide and given you credit. I thought you wouldn't mind. Excellent description of the fun to be had online.

Naagi,
Ask for it for christmas As you can see from Yun's post there is a lot of fun in the MP side. Some bugs, yes, but liveable and worth the hassle. See you online soon man.

YunDog
12-06-2002, 02:38
Thats why I posted it - thanks for making the effort to you Dion

tootee
12-06-2002, 02:58
Yes definitely worth the money.

YunDog
12-06-2002, 03:30
Section VII part E
Droppers Suck
So youve played a team battle but you got wiped out in the early part of the game and your allies are still there - why not to quit - everyone gets dark about having been eliminated from the game - and you want to start a new game - but there are 2 dudes left in this game that were counting on you. When you have been wiped out of a team game - BUT THIS NEED NOT BE THE END OF THE GAME You go to an unresricted camera mode - from here you can view the whole battle field all the armies and all the battles - you can still help your allies - and its also a good place to chat with people and have a laugh about the game without all the noise of the lobby. This is a very valuable part of the game because you can watch the tactics both of your allies and your enemies and you can LEARN new tactics and spy for your allies - YOU CAN CHEER THEM ON TOO http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

On one occasion when I thought I had in part been responsible for losing the game - my ally rallied one of his last units and the game came down to his general and the enemies general and he won - Im glad I hung around to watch and cheer him on

In another battle I got knocked out of a Free For ALL 8 player battle Royale - but I stayed and watched the battles - some of the battles and tactics I got to see were ausome and in the end everyone was watching the last two guys taking each other on cheering for one or the other - was Soooo glad I stayed for that one

Other times I had only a few gun units left but this was all the fire support my allies men needed to win Other time you can distract the enemies watching your half dead army while your ally sneaks up on them

If you quit you miss all this - you miss the opportunity to talk to the other dudes in the game and you miss the chance to learn new tactics.

So if you lose dont suck by quitting hang around and see how it all ends - you might make some new friends http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

In a single 1v1 game it can be worse still - if you just quit you dont get to see the stats or the valor gained and you wont learn which units did well and which one lets you down - you miss the chance to find out what your enemy thought and how they beat u - BUT WORSE STILL - you miss the opportunity and the HONOUR of congratulating your opponent on beating you - he knows you will be back and you could well beat him next time - he will appreciate that you hung around to see the end of the battle - there is a long wait between battles - you may as well see through what you began - some of the best generals and most reknowned vets were not the ones who won every battle but the ones who were the most fun to play http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

youssof_Toda
12-06-2002, 16:59
Dion: when the guide is ready maybe it's an idea to make a version of it in acrobad reader or something similar. This way ppl can print it out and have a comprehensible guide besides them when they are playing the game.

Dionysus9
12-06-2002, 20:03
Yeah, thats a good idea Yousuf. It's slowly getting pieced together, and it will need to be edited before it is formalized.

I'm editing in new stuff as we go....

Thanks for your help Yun

Jochi Khan
12-06-2002, 20:50
Dionysus9
Now this thread is getting really interesting, (and I don't think I'm classed as a newbie anymore)
From the above discription by YunDog any newcomer would be itching to get into battle online. I know I would.
If I can think of anything to add to the Multiplayer Guide
I will post later.
It's a good idea. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/idea.gif
.......Jochi

vexatious
12-07-2002, 02:26
Ok, I take it back. I'm playing online again and LUVING it. I installed a router. Now, I can only join and not host (it was the opposite before). http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif oh well. just thought i would pipe up to encourage the noobs.

Dionysus9
12-07-2002, 02:45
Wooohoo....thanks for coming back and posting, Vex....I'm glad you gave it another try

See you online, bro

Magyar Khan
12-08-2002, 04:39
without reading this

"get a trainer" and every time someone new who is better than teh one u had, but keep paying respect to your former trainers unless u felt misused. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

baz
12-08-2002, 13:48
thats how i learnt...

youssof_Toda
12-09-2002, 19:32
The right trainer will come to you not the other way around. I can still remember it, I got my first win in a 2v2 and a guy came to me saying: reveal yourself And so it begun. At least that was the case with me. I played quite some 2v2's with impy, meanwhile he gave me advice on unitchoice and troop depolyment.

*sigh* those were them newbiedays. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

TenkiSoratoti
12-14-2002, 13:05
Tip ------ join clan tenki

vexatious
12-16-2002, 21:47
You might want to divide section 5 (Selecting your army) into 2 subsections--one for selecting an attacking army and one for selecting a defending army.

Dionysus9
12-18-2002, 09:03
Thats a good idea vex-- would you like to write those portions? please?

vexatious
12-18-2002, 18:18
I'm not sure that you want me writing these. I'll try and send you something but I haven't met with much success crafting attacking armies. If someone else would do that, we'd all be much obliged.

vexatious
12-19-2002, 18:23
Picking Units for a Defending Army

This is a strategy that I've shared with a number of new players that I have played with/against. As a neophyte defender, try to take a balanced army. My standard formulation is as follows:

3 Missile Units
5 Spears
4 Infantry
4 Cavalry

I generally use the following opening formation:

MMM
I SSSSS I
C II C
CC

Missile Units- Missile units are critical for two reasons. First, without missiles, you are subject to ranged attacks. That's not good. As a defender, you have a natural advantage in that you decide where the engagement will take place. This is advantageous in two ways. First, the attacker must move, and hence fatigue, its army in order to engage. Second, you can take advantage of available terrain bonuses by setting up on a hill, around a forest, etc... If you don't have missiles, an attacker can simply pepper you with missiles until you capitulate and engage the attacker on its ground.

The second reason to take missile units is that they can be used to adversely effect the morale of enemy foot troops. After the initial missile volley exchange, it is very important to continue using missile attacks against your enemy's foot troops as they engage your foot troops. Doing so will cause targeted enemy units to suffer a loss of morale, making them easier to rout.

Which kind of missile unit should you take? I suggest pavise arbalests (High Period). PA's have a sheild to protect against incoming missile strikes, do well against armored troops, are fairly durable in melee and do not exhaust their ammo very quickly. The downside is that they have a long reload time and move slowly.

vexatious
12-19-2002, 18:27
Dion-

I'm going to work on this in installments. This was the first.

Dionysus9
12-19-2002, 20:51
Hey thats perfect Vex, thanks for the contribution. I went ahead and added it into the Guide. Its perfect. Cant wait for the next installment.

There are basically 3 strategies for attacking that you might want to explore, vex:

1) bring more ranged units than defender and force him to charge you

2) bring same # of range units as defender and duke it out.

3) bring less # of range units as defender and "rush" him.

tootee
12-21-2002, 00:42
Good stuff.. keep up the good work http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

Tomisama
12-21-2002, 04:09
Thanks YunDog, your "should persist" post warmed my warrior's heart http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

It reminded me of one I wrote a while back. Just thought I'd revive it again here, for whatever encouragement it might give also http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif


I am personally love big games with seasoned players who are dedicated to the game. The intensity can be incredable, and as the battle unfolds and skills unleashed, a truly marvelous thing happens. Win or lose, one excellent game can make up for all the problems, and pain, and cost, and time you've spent. One superb battle can send you out of the room exclaming "God I love this game" to people who have no idea what your talking about. Well there i go...off the edge. But that's why I want to do this clan vs clan thing. I like that feeling :P

Alastair II
12-21-2002, 18:55
I'm an MP newbie (and I'm REALLY bad), so I thought I might bring some perspective to everything. I read the most recent version of the topic post, and what I'd like to see most is not army composition, nor technical help (though I can see we need that), but some basic instruction on battlefield tactics. I seem to get routed every time using the same tactics that won me battle after battle on Expert in MI (keep in mind I've played a total of three MP games).

Thanks in advance.

Krasturak
12-24-2002, 18:00
Quote[/b] (Dionysus9 @ Nov. 26 2002,19:10)]X. Having fun and getting a good reputation
Gah

This is the most important part.

Gah

Krasturak
12-24-2002, 18:05
Quote[/b] (ElmarkOFear @ Nov. 28 2002,09:55)]Tootie stop sending me love emails I'm a married man I don't care what the Tarot cards say http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Gah

Besides which, Krast has dibs on Elmo

*pulls bag out of backpack*

Gah

Cheetah
12-24-2002, 19:16
Quote[/b] (vexatious @ Dec. 19 2002,11:23)]Picking Units for a Defending Army

This is a strategy that I've shared with a number of new players that I have played with/against. As a neophyte defender, try to take a balanced army. My standard formulation is as follows:

3 Missile Units
5 Spears
4 Infantry
4 Cavalry

I generally use the following opening formation:

MMM
I SSSSS I
C II C
CC



This is a good formation vex, but on defence you can take a more missile heavy army. For example:

5 Missile
5 Spears
4 Cavs
2 Shock inf.

deploy like this:

M M M M
C S S S S S C
C M C
I I

vexatious
12-26-2002, 19:30
Agreed. There are a number of possible formulations and Cheetah's army is good for countering attacking armies that are missile heavy.

Orda Khan
12-26-2002, 22:18
Nobody has mentioned strategy, really. What about out manoeuvring the enemy? Bringing an army that suits the terrain or that suits the choice of your allies

.....Orda http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif

Dionysus9
12-29-2002, 06:56
I added the CA warning against making threats in the gamespy foyer. I added Cheetahs formation.

I think we can fit Battlefield Tactics under one of these chapters:

VII. The Battle
A. What your allies will expect of you
B. Movement
C. Combat
D. Morale (rout penalties effect your allies)
. . .

Or we could make a new chapter for it... but first we need material....

Orda? Cheetah? Vex? You guys want to but together some "battlefield tactics" ??????

Do it for the newbs Its the holidays.

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

Tomisama
01-11-2003, 16:46
I scanned all the posts in this topic, but don’t think I saw anything about what I consider to be:

The Number One Multiplayer Problem

This problem is really very serious as it has, and is driving both new and experienced away from the online game.

Please, please, please do not come to multiplayer without the proper equipment If you do otherwise, you will be ruining other peoples fun, and quite literally killing the game.

Remember that little readme file you didn’t read when you first fired up the program? Or maybe you did quickly read it but also quickly forgot because you really just wanted to get on with learning the game at the time? Let’s take another look.

It gives minimum (350 MHz /128 MB), recommended (600 MHz/128 MB), and ideal (1.2 GHz 256 MB) system requirements to play MTW.

After that is a little blurb called:

REQUIRED FOR MULTIPLAYER That says, the minimum specification is based on 2 players. More than 2 players participating requires a higher specification incrementally. A total of 8 players will need the ideal multiplayer specification (750 MHz) or higher for smooth game play.

Everyone just loves to blame GameSpy for drops and lags, but it’s players with poor internet connections and/or lame computers that are at fault. If you want to play online, please do whatever you have to do to get things right. We all do want you there, but only if you have the right stuff.

starkhorn
01-23-2003, 12:12
Great thread and good idea Dion,

I'm not much of a writer so I won't attempt to write a chapter or anything but something I think would be useful would be a mention about hosting a game.

Specifically I have had a few problems where I've had a GREAT BATTLE. Truly great fun with it all coming down to a lst few men.....
Afterwards I want to "save replay" but the guy hosting has quit before I get a chance. Really annoying and rude. If your hosting, it would be nice if you let everyone know that your are quitting at least 30 sec's in advance.

My apologises if you have already mentioned this point but I didn't see it myself.

Cheers
Starkhorn

Dionysus9
02-11-2003, 19:03
Updates have been made, but as the release of the Viking invasion is impending, it doesnt make a whole lot of sense to edit much of The Guide.

Contributions are still welcome and will be accepted, but we'll wait to see if any changes are made in the foyer before completing The Guide.

The Scourge
02-25-2003, 23:19
I was wondering about talking/spying for allies after you've been beaten.
Is that considered to be ok by most.
plus,if i do decide that I don't want to stick around(And no men left:).Does it do any harm to press Esc.
I know it did in Shogun,if playing a ladder game.

Elrich of Gaul
02-26-2003, 06:09
Geezzzz Bachus... where DO you find the time.... yeeshh.

Swoosh So
02-27-2003, 10:26
Also check out swoosh replays here at the org for the 3v3 to see why cav are so important in team games, player using cav wisely can easily rout 3 armies as u will see in the replay vs tenki

Div Hunter
04-24-2003, 12:35
Well I'm a newb at multi so I thought this would be a good place to try and get an answer. I played a few games and it was cool. Lost them all but lot's a fun. But now I go in and it says invalid cdkey what is with that? I have a legit bought copy and checked and rechecked the cdkey but it doesn't work http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif I don't think it's possible I could have been banned for any reason what can I do?

spacecadet
04-24-2003, 13:35
Div,

unless you've been handing out your cd key, all you need to do is to

- restart the game
- reenter all your details
- keep trying to login

this problem sometimes happens to me and all i can do is 1 or all of the above and eventually it will work.


SpaceCadet

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

Div Hunter
04-24-2003, 14:13
Thanks spacecadet seems and odd error. Cirtainly havn't been handing out my cd key, hmm would using an edited exe screw it up? I'll keep trying (with original 1.1 exe)

Alrowan
04-30-2003, 15:07
ok, ill be using a bit of this information for my Combat School, ive been inspired to help newbies http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Crandaeolon
05-03-2003, 14:39
I posted some tips and the list of modifiers in the "Good Ronins?" -thread in Barracks, perhaps those could be added here?

Heraclius
06-03-2003, 01:53
as an MP noob that was very helpful. thanks http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

Dionysus9
06-06-2003, 19:48
Crand, please cut and paste your barracks info here and I will make sure it gets added to the initial post. I will be taking a leave of absence, but I'll come back to check this topic only--as I feel the importance of attracting players to MP transcends the petty politics of the .org.

Here is my explanation (as I'm sure it will get closed and buried quickly):
--------------
tootee edit

see http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin....;t=7919 (http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin/forum/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=6;t=7919)

ps: this should be the proper way, so as not to hijack a good thread.. easier for patrons to abstract what they want by the topic

end of edit

tootee
06-06-2003, 20:19
this is what I'll call a hijack of a very worthy thread for JF. Something that is totally unrelated to the topic of the thread.