6 replies to this topic

[highrise]

hi guys

ok, so for the last two or three months I've been working on a new system for creating tables in VP and it is almost complete. Basically it involves working with a XML file which stores all the table data - lights, switches, rules, sounds, music, everything. I have an engine which reads all the data and converts it into something that VP can run. In layman's terms, you could say it works like a rom - but a rom you can program. I chose to work in XML because it's very standardardised, and once it's complete, I will be able to use it to run whole tables with deep and complex rulesets - not just originals, but also 'no rom' versions of tables that you can't currently play - think JPSalas Spiderman table: once complete using a system like this it would not be so difficult to create versions of tables like Iron Man or Batman for example. Not only that but because it is all coded in XML, it should, in theory, also be possible to create something similar in future pinball, which would mean that the table data could be used to port tables over from one system to the other.

BUT to do all that ideally I need some help. I have used several XML editors, and they are pretty good but they don't quite fit exactly what I would like. What I was thinking about was a javascript app which could load up the XML and then, through a standard web browser, display all the options, rules and so on, thus allowing anyone to build table rules without needing to understand complex script. The app would just output the XML file at the end, and the system would use that to run the table. Kind of like a table engine, but a lot more flexible.

So, is anyone out there interested, able and willing to help with this? I think the tables that could be built would be worth it.

thanks in advance

HR

[TheMcD]

Hm, this sounds familiar. Have you pitched this idea before?

I've only had like half a year of Javascript experience from school, and that was like the EXTREME basics. So basic, you couldn't get much more basic. I doubt I'd be able to help in any way. I will however follow this project.

The McD

[highrise]

yes, I have spoken about it before, but I've pretty much coded the system now and it is working pretty well. What I'm looking for is someone that knows how to help me with an interface to make the actual rulebuilding a bit easier as currently I have to write it directly in XML.

[Lord Hiryu]

Sounds incredible!!!
I have no idea of HTML or javascript.......on VB script too....but....if you need help, here's my hands.

[highrise]

oh well, I guess I'll soldier on by myself then maybe when this table is finished I might find someone interested! I live in hope...

[FireSlash]

Depending on what you need, I can probably help. I'm well versed in JS, among other web technologies and languages. I don't check this forum very often, so hit me up via email (fireslash@fireslash.net) with some examples of the xml files and desired output, I can probably make something work.

[TheMcD]

...wait a minute... I've heard that name before. You're the guy that made TF2Stats, right?

The McD