27.03.2008, 03:26
Let me explain the idea a bit more.
I meant that not every mod makes a new version of the game. All mods should be published separately first (New FMs/DMs/weapons first in their own AC slots. When it is widely agreed that modded version is better than stock version, the stock version can possibly be replaced in next patch). New maps and aircraft can be installed as separate mods first and tested without changing the version number. The right time to publish new patch version is when enough important new content is ready and players want to use these naw planes and maps online in dogfight servers.
The release times of patches can be decided by the community so that too many updates aren't needed. The patches can also contain an update for version switcher so that switching to older version is easy if server uses older mod pack. All the version switcher has to do is to change version number and replace significantly different FMs, DMs, and maps with older versions. The switcher shouldn't uninstall any mods, only change those that are too different for online play.
Of course only new aircraft, maps and FM/DM/weapon changes should be included in patches that change version number. Other mods that don't affect online gameplay (better textures, 6DOF mod, 3d model corrections, sound/effect mods ect.) should be left outside version changing patches so that everyone can freely decide which mods to use. Just make a list of recommended other mods (with download links) released after previous mod patch and place the list under the patch download so that anyone can easily see which mods could be useful. Also note all known compatibility issues and links to correct versions of these mods at the patch download site.
The first mod patch/addon (5.00MOD) could include:
Generic mod activator (sound packs could be installed separately and patch installer can leave present sound set)
New wrapper
AC installer
Cockpits for all AI planes (to make sure everyone can use these planes as flyable)
Spitfire Mk1 + possibly other new aircraft
All new maps that are ready (so ready that layout/airfield changes aren't expected anymore)
Corrected FMs for some AI planes (Tu-2S, Avanger, B5N2, B6N2 ect. if ready)
Fire extinquishers for all aircraft that had them (if ready)
Of course these are only ideas and perhaps the best solution is somewhat different.
The installer of 5.00MOD could ask for mod activator/soundmod version
I meant that not every mod makes a new version of the game. All mods should be published separately first (New FMs/DMs/weapons first in their own AC slots. When it is widely agreed that modded version is better than stock version, the stock version can possibly be replaced in next patch). New maps and aircraft can be installed as separate mods first and tested without changing the version number. The right time to publish new patch version is when enough important new content is ready and players want to use these naw planes and maps online in dogfight servers.
The release times of patches can be decided by the community so that too many updates aren't needed. The patches can also contain an update for version switcher so that switching to older version is easy if server uses older mod pack. All the version switcher has to do is to change version number and replace significantly different FMs, DMs, and maps with older versions. The switcher shouldn't uninstall any mods, only change those that are too different for online play.
Of course only new aircraft, maps and FM/DM/weapon changes should be included in patches that change version number. Other mods that don't affect online gameplay (better textures, 6DOF mod, 3d model corrections, sound/effect mods ect.) should be left outside version changing patches so that everyone can freely decide which mods to use. Just make a list of recommended other mods (with download links) released after previous mod patch and place the list under the patch download so that anyone can easily see which mods could be useful. Also note all known compatibility issues and links to correct versions of these mods at the patch download site.
The first mod patch/addon (5.00MOD) could include:
Generic mod activator (sound packs could be installed separately and patch installer can leave present sound set)
New wrapper
AC installer
Cockpits for all AI planes (to make sure everyone can use these planes as flyable)
Spitfire Mk1 + possibly other new aircraft
All new maps that are ready (so ready that layout/airfield changes aren't expected anymore)
Corrected FMs for some AI planes (Tu-2S, Avanger, B5N2, B6N2 ect. if ready)
Fire extinquishers for all aircraft that had them (if ready)
Of course these are only ideas and perhaps the best solution is somewhat different.
The installer of 5.00MOD could ask for mod activator/soundmod version