Tonweya

I had made an MS XL spread sheet for all the items in a node and then would hand write an entire town to figure out why an event did or did not happen. It's the long way around, but I guess I'm more of an analyst than a gamer. ;^} Again, thanks a LOT. me

I just had occasion to use one of the additional features in the upgraded version; 'specdata.txt'. A HUGE 'Thank You'. I've gone through an incredible amount of hand written work over the last few years. Again, Thanks, me

Instead of speculating, why not just ask Jeff about what may, or may not, be questionable? me

Right Click 'Properties': No boxes are checked. I have to admit that the color seems 'normal' after a few days of running the program. It could have been me, but it really did seem 'washed-out' at first and now looks better. Maybe it's just one of those 'geriatric' problems. ;^{ I tried the 256 colors, but it made no difference; it looks the same. Write it off to old age and I'll just use one of Gilda's lines: "I'm sorry." tx, me

Neither are a problem; just minor 'flaws'. The 'washed-out' yellow of the "Load Scenario" is the only window that this happens to. (XP prof) Actually, all the others seem to be a bit bolder than they used to. Everything I've tried so far seems to look and work quite crisp and crisply. tx, me

From what you ask, I can't tell where you are. Have you met Vargas at the Barrier to the Untamed Region yet? me

Nuisance Item: When using the new version, (Classic), The message window clips the bottom of the buttons, for instance: "Look" at a Portal and a message window comes up asking you do you want to enter, or what ever. The bottoms of the two buttons, "Enter" and "Leave" are cut off a bit. You can read what they are, but it looks like the Message box may need to be 'taller'(?) I tried it in several modes and it's the same for all except for a single line message. tx me PS: Also the 'Load Game' window is a washed-out yellow and could be better looking but I haven't seen any 'problems so far. I've used the new version for several things now, including the Editor for a repair and I LOVE it! The 'BoE_NP' isn't necessary and I'm thrilled. Thank you, thank you, thank you! me

That's just a round about way to say that I've used the new Classic Version, made the correction I needed to and again, really thank all of you for doing what you did. me * edit. The first was as I remember an Irish toast/blessing and the second is that I've been doing Spy's Quest and now At the Gallows and feel like Brian must be the devil in disguise. NASTY puzzles! ;^}

Not only, "May you be a half hour in Heaven before the Devil knows you're gone', but may he become dumbfounded and damned to spend eternity in one of these confounded 'Puzzle Palaces' created by Stareye. ;^} Every day is filled with miracles if we're not too blind to see them. Thanks, me

Have you tried the way we explained it to you, yet? Several times. I keep getting a 'can't find' message. I tried several variations with the same results. I tried 'browse' and it seemed to accept a line with the C:\Folder\Folder, etc. but still wouldn't work. I then tried eliminating the spaces and adding the underscore "_" where there were spaces; still no luck. The best I've accomplished was to get a 'blip' of a small 'DOS' window, but that's all. I've pretty much given up because I don't want to bother anyone any more; you have enough serious work to do. Besides which, you don't even need it if you use the editor (but if you use the editor you have to make sure to not use any new features). Errr? "don't even need it"? "new features"? "Tell me it ain't so, Joe." Does that mean that one can 'modify' 'Legacy' Scenarios with the new Editor? tx, me

This probably should be posted under a new heading, but since it's relative to this column, it's here, at least for now. * If the Moderators want to move it, please do so. Included in the new release, (again, thank all of you greatly), there is a File named, "Known Scenario Bugs". You have included two Scenarios, 'Red Star and 'Fog'. Q1.) Is this to be added to by any and all Players as they find them and, if so, wouldn't it be better that this become a separate 'Board' under the Blades grouping? Q2.) I've encountered a missing Node in Stareye's "Spy's Quest". He has given his permission for me to ask the Community for help on this and if I figure out how to make <BoE_NP> 'run', I'll be able to make the correction. (I'll E-mail the 'Repaired' Scenario to Stareye to do with it what he chooses.) Q3.) If the new "No Password Command Line" does what it should, that opens a potential 'can of worms'. A particular Scenario that I liked was so 'fouled-up' that it was mostly 'unplayable'. I learned how to use the BoE Editor, (thanks Community), and made all the necessary corrections to make the Scenario now playable. I find it unethical to even mention that I did so, but it was for my own purpose and that's how it should stay. The question is; if there are 'unplayable' or 'corrupted' Scenarios out there and it is now possible to access and modify a Scenario even though they be 'password-protected', why not allow the Administration to create a new 'Board' for 'Modified', or 'Repaired' Scenarios that, up to now could not be played, or completed? * Note that many original Authors are no longer available and their Scenarios are now 'orphans'. It seems to me that this would not only allow for several scenarios to now be played, but it would also encourage participation by new and existing Players? Obviously, ALL of these 'Repaired' Scenarios should only become available after being thoroughly reviewed by the Administrators. Whachathink? me

The appreciation is proportionate to the work you all have done... HUGE. Thanks, from all of us who continue on with these classics.

Short note: With our sons, I learned Dos to read & write programs, but as time passed, I was busy with work, little league, First Aid Squad, etc. and lost contact with the programming. The kids advanced and I didn't. Now that I'm retired and have lots of time on my hands, I like to work with Word, Excel, Access, etc. to keep my mind and hands busy. To me it's simply, 'fun'. I never learned C, or any advanced programming languages, nor do I really use most of the functions of these machines. So it takes a little while for me to 'see' the obvious. A lightning bolt caused us to buy a new TV - our first LCD. I was surprised to learn that a 26 inch LCD is not the same as a 26 inch CRT. After sending it back and purchasing a larger size, we're quite happy, thank you. And, seriously, thank you, one and all for all the help. me

In-fraggin'-credible. I never knew that was there. I 'assumed' one needed to have some special program to un-zip things. May I publicly state: You are the right people, in the right place, at the right time. The 'event' was when Jeff released the code and the right people were there. THANKS, me

The OS is Windows XP Professional. I'm using Winzip; (WinZip 9.0 SR-1, 'WINZIP32.EXE') Sorry, I thought I had identified the OS originally. I understand that Jeff's original structure is no longer applicable. I used that as an expample to question if sub-folders were important; apparently they are. The new application is not un-zipping properly and I see no option to 'keep the folder structure intact'. May I ask which program you used to compact the Beta2? I'll find what ever that is and use it. As to using the BoE_NP, the way you describe it, it sounds like I'd need to be in a programming mode to access the Scenario. For me to edit a scenario everything is done by Icons. I load the Editor, click on the button icon to load a scenario and click on graphic icon bars to select a function, or icons on the *.bmp image to edit nodes, etc. I don't understand how I can add the 'Command Line' to a running program. You're not assuming I'm a programmer and have/use a File Editor, are you? I've just lately learned how to use Jeff's BoE Editor. ;^{ Sorry for being so slow to understand this. Languages were my 'strong suit' years ago. ;^{ It may be a little late in the work you all have been doing, but maybe you could add an 'Auto Load' function for your final product that included inputting the OS information. I'd assume that there may be a few others out here that may require some assistance. me

Creating a separate folder, "OBOE", and unzipping the Beta2 within it gives the same results as above, when running any of the three *.exe programs. All three 'lock-up'. The original version, Jeff's, of Blades does have two sub-folders, BLADSCEN and BLSCENED. When I unzip the Beta2, no sub-directories are created, all files are listed individually, as you said. Any chance that's a problem? If the 'BoE_NP.exe is a 'stand alone', where should I place it to use it on a Scenario? me

1.) Are you talking about the 'Dark Cave'? If so, I have the Outside Coordinates at: O-(163, 243). There is a tunnel around the Building Structure and at 25, 20 you should find a 'Weak Wall'. Cast, 'Move Mountains' and you're in. 2.) IIRC, you must first speak with his wife, Lorraine, who lives at 13, 45 in the Residential Section of Independence City. Ask her if you can, 'HELP'. She will tell you his name, 'William Dawson', and tells you to speak with the Warden of the Jail. 3.) Head West to the Slith Lands. At the Southern end of the Mountains, just North of the Slith Village is the Icy Cave. The Asptongue Mold is near the body of Dr. Crandall where you'll fight some Ice Puddings and an Ice Drake. 4.) Enter the Mines at 49, 08. At 60, 40 is the Entrance to Level 2. At 35&36, 17 and 49&50, 17 is a 'Secret Passage' between Tunnels. At 39, 46 use a Bridge to cross the River. At 41, 31 and 41, 33 are Secret Passages to a Hidden Chamber where you have to battle a 'Hideous Looking Undead Creature'. Finally, at 47, 32 is an Evil Altar that you must cast, 'Ritual Sanctification' to destroy. This should keep you going for a while. ;^} me

Not being of a very high wattage luminescence, I hope you'll excuse another amateur-type question, but... I downloaded the 'Win32_CBoE_Beta2.zip' file and tried to open both the Program Editor and Character Editors. I heard the Introductory Music(?) and only saw two rectangles on a black screen. Am I supposed to open these 'on their own', overwrite the original BoE, or what? Again, sorry for being a pain in the neck, me P.S. Is the 'BoE_NP.exe' file supposed to be included with the 'CBoE'? P.S.+ When I try to run 'Blades of Exile.exe I get a message that it cannot find, 'BOESOUNDS.DLL' and looking at the list of files, 'boesounds.dll' is in lower case, not upper case. Is it me, or ?

I'm on Windows XP with the original version of BoE running in W '95 compatability. I've only recently learned how to use the Editor, but can create, modify etc. adequately. I had volunteered the Walk-Throughs some time back, but was told that mine are too elaborate. So, I'm just doing them for my satisfaction. I keep an eye on the Board to respond to any question for help that I can. Last question(s); Am I correct to understand that what Thuryl said, using the Open Source Editor elimates the password, or is that only for 'new work'? And/or is your statement, "password removing command line executable" to mean that you still have to add that line to the 'new' Editor? Again, many thanks all, me

WOW! Quick reply, thanks. I've been following what has been posted regarding all the modifications, but thought that it was still under 'construction'. What/Which version do I use and will it affect what I presently have on my machine? Sorry to be so 'out of touch', but the truth is, I am. ;^{ Thanks again, me

For some time now I've been making detailed Walk-Throughs for Scenarios as a 'hobby' and recently began one for Stareye's "Spy's Quest". I ran into a problem at the "Hidden Tower". The object is to remove the source of some 'Evil Magic' which is an 'Evil Altar'. I cast, "Ritual Sanctification" and got all the sound effects and dialog as normal, but could not progress with the Scenario. There was no Node to "Change Terrain". I E-mailed Stareye explaining the problem and even asked if I might have the password to make the 'repair'. He said that there were no corrected versions and that he had forgotten the password as it had been a long time ago. He recommended that I ask the Community for help, so here I am. I have no intention of undermining the work that Stareye, or any Author, has done. I just enjoy making these "Walk-Throughs". Do any of you who know how to program know either how to find the password for this Scenario, of happen to know what it is? As a 'safeguard' I'd ask that you check first with Stareye to verify my story. I've 'shelved' what I have, but would really like to complete this Walk-Through. Any help would be sincerely appreciated, Tx, me

There are many scenarios and even more opinions of them. I'd recommend you read the reviews, perhaps starting with the scenarios that have the highest ranking. Only you can actually answer your question because the 'best' is what you think one would be. Most of us can give you our opinion, but that probably wouldn't be worth much. One of the most widly acclaimed Authors is 'Alcritas'. He has a string of scenarios that are well known and have a story-line thread throughout. His first, "On a Ship to Algiers" is made for a 'Beginner' Party and a good scenario for a 'Beginner' Player. Another that may be a good scenario for a Beginner Player is 'Tatterdemalion'. It is a simple scenario that isn't too difficult, but in it you make a choice to play as either Fighter, Priest, or Mage. You can play this scenario all three ways and it may be a good scenario to gain a better understanding of the BoE styles. Again, read the reviews and try to understand what the commenting players have to say about the scenarios. me

If I can be of any help... 1) How do you complete the mage initiation test ie. how do you reach the door in the corner i've used dispel field to no avail. What door in what corner of what area; or, what quest? 2) How do you give the slith map to the priest guild i got the map from the Slithzeraki but she keeps asking for it even though it is in my inventory!!! When you return to Father Zacharia, ask, "Mission". He will tell you that there is something he must "Confess". Ask, "Confess" and he will tell you that he cannot decipher the marks on the map and that you should go ask Mother Catherine next door. He will also ask you to "Choose" your "Reward". Ask, "Choose", or "Reward" and one Party Member will receive 5 Skill Points. When You speak with Mother Catherine in the Diciples' Chambers, ask her to "Decipher" the map. She will and will give you your next "Mission". 3) How do i find william dawson; where is he, he's not in cells or exercise yard? Assuming that you've already talked to Dawson's wife to know about him... When you go to the Independence City Jail, speak with the Watchmna, (guard). In the conversation, ask, "Prisoners", or "Allowed, then "Somebody" and then "William", or "Dawson". Once you speak with him, the story line will continue. 4) How do i find glowing nettle; is it in the treehouse? I need this for the alchemists guild! Glowing Nettle is found on the little island in the lake in the park in Independence City. Rent a boat from Gus at the Boat Rental Concession to access the island. 5) How do i get the sapphire necklace from Simms? i see he has a cellar behind the bookcase; is it down there?? First, you must have in your possession at least five bottles of "Independence Ale" that you can purchase at the Inn in Lancaster. In the town, Lancaster, speak with Samantha in the Jewelry shop. When you ask, "Sapphire", you will be given a choice of either of two answers; choose '2', that a friend told you she had one here a few weeks ago. She will tell you that your friend must have been mistaken... unless they meant Jacob's, the retired jeweler. He will tell you that Mr. Simms has a Sapphire Necklace. DO NOT ask Mr. Simms about the necklace, or he'll get upset and you'll accomplish nothing. Instead, play out the scenario conversations; click on the following words: "Lancaster", "Fight", "South", "Valley", "Valuable" or "Gems", "Hollis", "Weird", "Sapphire" or "Necklace", "Hidden" or "Safe", "Grave", "Treasures" or "Secret", and finally, "Drunk". You must get to the part of the conversation where he says, "I sure have been craving that lately". Walk to the arches to the Foyer to 'trigger' this next part. He'll say, "I see you like that crap, too" and you'll be asked by the scenario, 'Do you offer the bottle to him? Yes, or No? You answer "Yes" after each scenario response until he finally flips a switch to access his Wine Cellar. The Wine Cellar has a lot of Traps, including Quickfire. There are others of no real consequence, but... 16, 05: Quicfire Trap 05, 10: Quickfire Trap 24, 08: Skeleton - Quickfire Trap 26, 17: Concealed Lever, "Pull" to turn off another Quickfire Trap 24, 18: Pick, or Bash, a lock. Stay along the North, West and South Walls, the rest of the room is trapped. 18, 18: Pick, or Bash, another lock, and disarm a trap. 18, 20: Chest. Disarm the trap and you will find THE NECKLACE. There are other treasures and traps you may want to search. I'd recommend saving every time you attempt one, or gain a little distance. Let me know which door you're talking about for the first item and I'll give you an answer for it. Sorry this is so long, but I don't know how far along you had been. me

Increasing the maximum amount of gold the party can have sounds like 'American Economics 101'. Alcritas used a simple method by creating a Special Item; a coin worth 'x' amount of gold. As the party acquired more gold, they 'bought' these coins in a Bank, thus being able to carry more than the maximum amount the Editor allows. This would work with any other object, too; Gemstones, Objet d'arte, Antiques, etc. It seems to me the ability to bypass the parameters of the Editor is a function of the Author, not re-programming. me

Not being a warrior, I originally favored dual weapons because it would seem that a strong offense is better than a strong defense. However, I was seeing the shield only as a defensive object; that it would not be used offensively too. There is a show on TV that, iirc, is called, 'The Greatest Warrior', or something similar. Their studies show how, in the hands of a warrior, the shield would be used quite offensively, too. When creating a Party, I divide all the attributes among the party members, including ambidextrous and assassinate for the two fighters. If a designer includes a special two-handed sword, I'd probably use it, but that would be the only exception now, for me. If the mechanics of the game were changed, I'd probably change with it. But as it now stands, I now see the offensive ability of the shield to be greater than the defensive ability of a second sword. me