Shrug, I remember playing the mad hatter extensions, but TWHELP couldnt handle databases that big, so I had to switch to QMPRO and simple scripts

//shrugs\\

quote:Originally posted by Harley Nuss (teamEIS)

From what I've been told, the way the databases are now handled, attempting to modify them while the game is running almost always causes corruption.


Is there the possibility for an interface to write a plug-in that talks to the game and has the game handle the data file changes? Sort of like the TWGS Tools, only programs that do things like the old doors/add-ins/plug-ins used to do?

If the server was using a better database system... something powerfull (yet free) and had an open back-end, that would add a HUGE level of customization to the game. Bet we'd see some cool plug-ins/mods after that. ^_^

But what database? MySQL, Postgres, SAPDB, or maybe at least some DBF files from the old XBASE days?

MySQL, Postgres, or since TWGS is windows-based (unfortunately), even MSDE (SQL 2k) would be good.

Wayyyyy over my head 8^|

heh

MSDE 2K requires a Microsoft license to use. Either Visual Studio or MS-Office.

I think we lost Graz here with our database talk.

Hmmmm, there is also Firebird, it is a Borland InterBase dirivitive, open sourced and free and multi-platform. http://firebird.sourceforge.net/ InterBase is used by the U.S. Army to control Tanks and other stuff. Firebird is the free version of it. Rock solid, and ANSI SQL 92 compliant. Works great with Delphi programs using the BDE.

Of course EIS could do what DRoP does and use an ODBC source and let the User/GameOp choose the database to plug it into. All they would need would be to set up an ODBC driver. Unless they use a UDL file instead of ODBC, which would be much easier to configure.

Still adding a database would make the install more complex, and newbie GameOps would be emailing and calling EIS to figure out how to install the database. So maybe make the database part an optional feature? Use the database or data files, GameOp's choice.

I agree... Optional ODBC would rock. If I could read the back-end on my server in real-time there's no end to the fun stuff I could come up with. I run both MySQL and MSDE, but I like the option I'd have with just an ODBC connector.

But for the non-tech-savvy users, just keep dumping to their locked flat-files for a "normal" install.

Sorry Graz... get me talkin' about data and I go nuts. ^_^

Any EIS staffers want to chime in here? Has there been any brainstorming about the possibility of porting to an ODBC connector for the back-end, or at least a better database than what you currently use? Any talk regarding making the database more open/powerfull and less corruptable?

It would have to be in the *nix version as well. I think that most *nix systems support ODBC as well, don't they? Or at least JDBC?

Deuce, JP, anyone?

I don't know what kind of reply your going to get from them, after all your talking about changing their code, without their consent... Kinda like sewing a kids arm to his face, his parents won't be happy

So they really use software to control a tank? Wow, now all we have to develop is anti tank software, and we can fire the military, just let the machines hack it out

Graz

Heh, I think the first serious effort at this was ASAS/ENSCE (All-Source Analysis System/Enemy Situational Control Element). They loaded up VAX/VMS systems on the back of hardened trucks and used shortwave communications to send out the commands to the hardware. Interesting stuff in it's day (early/mid-80's.)

galaxi

I don't know that it's as simple as "changing their code." By opening up the back-end, it allows for *enhancement* to the existing system. The core code would still be closed, but all kinds of nifty mods could be written. I think it's the only way you'll ever see the game grow, since (no offense to anyone) development seems to be stagnant.

Hrm-

Might wanna get ahold of mad hatter- From what I understand, he's been able to "enhance" the game in ways I never thought possible... That's if he hasn't disappeared again We used to talk alot, but not since I returned...

graz

The open database is more of a suggestion for future ehancements to the game.

Until then, when DRoP comes out, we can use the ODBC database in that to do things with. From the helper part of things, not the game part of things.