Call for VDP Web Content

[Stephen]

This is only place I was able to find current information on the game!
- Gary Blemings

The only site on the web with current information on the game.
- George Henion

Anyone who has been a part of FitS knows if they want updated on what is happening, this is where to come
- Jim Pink

Hey guys, I'm renewing the call here for the VDP content that was promised when we started a few weeks ago.

We really need to keep relevant, fresh content up. People will forgive the "under construction" signs on the VDP page for a while, but I want to keep pushing for new content.

For the main VDP page we need a brief article explaining - to someone who has no idea whatsoever - just what VDP is. Just an introduction.

The downloads/instructions page is full of good, permanent material and is very nice.

The History of Online DP page is full, but any additions to that article would be appreciated and helpful.

Planning for events needs to continue and full explanatory articles for the Events page are needed.

Any other articles on expansion packs, the future of VDP, helpful tips, online game courtesy, house rules, etc., are appreciated.

Pardon me for nagging but I don't want to let this slide until its forgotten and neglected. People come here because this is the only site in the world that is kept current and fresh, and this is precisely what will help expand VDP and push it into the future. I can't let these pages drag... everything on ISD needs to have solid content.

Rock on, dudes. Write stuff! Send it in! Thanks.

[kirkh]

This sounds like a challenge. Let's go boys. Let's get our keyboards blazing!!!!

[Rex]

I'll do the Intro. Should have something to you today Stephen.

-Rex

[Stephen]

Thanks, guys. Who else is playing VDP that we can lean on a bit? Andy, Kevan, Gary? Hey, Al or Rick... we need someone who has not played VDP yet to play a game and write a review of the Vassal engine.

[kevan]

I've been meaning to do some more writing. Some things, such as planning special events, probably require some more informal discussion so that we have an idea as to what and when.

In a few weeks, I will have Plane Pack 2 ready to roll, and a listing of planes should probably go up somewhere once that's ready.

I've been playing around with an idea to remove the grid from the game, so that planes move the same distance on the diagonal. This would require new module, but would make for an interesting special event. If I find out that it definitely can be done, I could do a write-up in advance to explain how it works, why I think it's better than traditional DP, etc. But I can't make a solid commitment until I figure out if I'm able to do it.

It looks like a regular weekday night is lining up. If it does, that should definitely be posted on the main page. What might make it interesting is to keep some sort of "league" stats. These wouldn't necessarily be pilot stats, since some players will fly the same pilot in face-to-face play. Maybe a listing of human players by mission flown and kills, broken down by nationality.

I'm having a hard time thinking of other article content. Anyone have any ideas?

[Stephen]

Well, even if we don't come up with any new ideas for a while, I think we're getting close to filling the VDP section to an adequate degree.

Once the main page intro and Events page are complete, we can at least take down the construction signs and have a full section to offer people that explains what VDP is, where it came from, how to download and play, how to play e-games, and where to discuss it. That is not comprehensive but its sufficient for the time being.

I do think we need to push the decision on special events for several reasons, so to that end I will make specific recommendations on the appropriate thread.

Thanks again for your help, guys. THis section was going to have to be a team effort and everyone is coming through.

[AP]

I am currently working on updating the 'Hits Table' chart that is included in the download. I have added the new Single Gun Hit Factor Table as well as Observer HF Table, and am working on also including The Hit Location charts for Pushers and Twin Engine aircraft as well.

Kevan, I am pulling together all the seaplane counters I have, as well as some more unique aircraft and should have them for you shortly.

Do we want any sort of writeup for a 'rules' section explaining what we go by? Anything else? lmk!!

[kevan]

I started drafting a 'rules' page last night, hopefully I'll having something together by the weekend. If anyone has any ideas or suggestions, feel free to send them to me. I'll probably be doing some brainstorming during Thursday's VDP game too.

[AP]

Kevan I just made a 'Newbies Cheat Sheet' since I am bored at work today... maybe we can collaborate on the rules effort. I will send out the cheat sheet now & see what everyone thinks!