I did programming at Uni, but I've gotten a bit rusty since then, and I had a broad range rather than a deep one. So, it depends what language and what sort of program you're after. Like Keno, I'm also a bit pressed for time at the moment.
Can you tell us more about your concept?
I'd rather not pump too much out into open forums, but the basic concept is a mapping software that lets you effectivly digitize the delve format
my personal programming skills are pretty much tucked in VB6.0, i can do a bit with C++, but not much
I'm currently working with an HTML concept of something like this. Not enturely sure if this is what you mean.
My ultimate goal of the page is to set up a site that will allow users to enter their actions into a submission form that will post back to a LAMP server that stores the XY coordinates. The pages, of course, will be PHP pages and follow the same concepts. Users can be sitting at the table (with a "dummy terminal" or two and a projector) or online.
Great thing about it is that you can use high quality scans and stretch them out to the needed size (I have yet to implement this for the map, but shouldn't be hard). I wouldn't go much less than 32 pixels per 5' square though (haven't tried 20 pixels). Character "icons" are scaled (based on the "height" value in an array that can be changed from round to round) and stored in an "images" folder so they can be reused.
Although I haven't tested the possibility of other maps, I think that it should transition pretty easily. Of course, there is some learning curve as I haven't worked out submission forms and it is currently only supported by updating a JS file.
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Graphically that is more evolved then i plan to get anytime soon... I was thinking a laptop reference for a DM.
The problem with the delve format is it uses a metric butt tonne of space, my idea is to tuck most of that data in behind mouse over or click controled reference screens
so basically when writing up an adventure, you could map a room, and make yourself notes. Have a few indicators, such as T for trap or M for monster, then put your mouse over that square and it says the beastie starts here, click and it brings up the creatures stats (which can be from the SRD or custom)
gonna be a lot of work, but should be saleable
so basically when writing up an adventure, you could map a room, and make yourself notes. Have a few indicators, such as T for trap or M for monster, then put your mouse over that square and it says the beastie starts here, click and it brings up the creatures stats (which can be from the SRD or custom)
I believe that the above would still be what you're looking for, if I'm understanding correctly. Your indicators would be SPAN or DIV tags absolutely placed by CSS. OnMouseover, you have it display DIV container that has the basics. OnClick, populate a new window with the stats.
I have another project that I'm fiddling with that is an "Tavern Generator" which could double for a Mapping Software. Extremely primative. If I were to do it again, I'd suggest XML and SVG. You can do pretty much anything you want there, including customizable graphics and scaleability.
The tough part is the Stats. You can build them up yourself, or use hyperlinks to other documents out on the web. I'd start looking at Andargor's HQ page. I browsed through one of his databases but I wasn't impressed (it's been too long ago to say for certain). The Searchable HTML is very nice though.
In the long run, it may be a good idea to create your own SRD package that includes character generation, addition for Feats/Skills/Prestige Classes/Races and such. Although it would be a big project, it would be fully customizable to your needs.
If you're looking to sell, this is where I bow out (although I probably can't resist putting in my two coppers ; ). I'm a strong believer in the "Free to the Masses" (mostly when it comes to gaming) and that's why I'm doing the Fake Arena without compensation. No offense meant.
Sounds interesting. Maybe I can help out. How do I contact you?
Sounds like a cool idea, Dragonmann. Unfortunately, I think it's a bit beyond me. Looks like you've got a few talented people willing to help though :)
Good luck. I'd be interested to hear how it goes.
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Sounds like a cool idea, Dragonmann. Unfortunately, I think it's a bit beyond me. Looks like you've got a few talented people willing to help though :)
Good luck. I'd be interested to hear how it goes.
Not sure how I am going to handle things, a few of my buds are programmers too.
Might set up another forum somewhere to discuss the program, and I will gladly sponge any skill you have.
As for saleable, I was thinking something along the lines of shareware (donations welcome) or base program free, expansions with cost.
One cautionary note I would bring to your attention: there is a plethora of crappy mapping/campaign software (most of it written in VB) out there, so I would make sure that your first iteration is solid, feature-rich, and easy to use. Otherwise, people will abandon it for a "better" tool, especially if you're charging money for it.