Introducing a new look for the module! From this release, wooden pieces are shown in 3D projection and cards can be read more easily:
Thanks to @alecrespi for providing the graphics used in this update.
The step change unfortunately means that the module is unable to provide compatibility with versions prior to this one, even prior v5 beta releases. For this reason, I am incrementing the module version to “5.1”. As this is a significant change, more explanation is required than usual - you can find this in the twisties below.
At the same time, small, internal changes to the module and improved Vassal data clean up have resulted in a module that is smaller in size and should load games more quickly than of late. A number of outstanding beta test issues have also been resolved.
The module tutorial has been re-done for v5.1. The supporting videos (see Help menu) have not yet been updated. These still give a useful demonstration of the module but with the older graphics and without the cross-over to the built-in tutorial game.
Download the latest v5.1.0 update from the module home page .
IMPORTANT: The recommended heap size is now 2560 Mb. Please adjust this setting before recording any log files using the new version; see Preferences…General tab.
New customisation options
The appearance of the units can be adjusted in Preferences…Game Options.
Unit strength may be set to display as a number or as block icons on the right-hand side of each piece. The “Show unit code” settings controls whether the unit mnemonic appears on the pieces. The graphic above shows the icons/no label configuration.
The default settings are label and number, as shown here.
These are personal settings, not affecting other users.
Help with the changes
The new look may take a little getting used to but the module operates pretty much as before with minor differences, mainly as follows:
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Leader pieces now stack below the unit. This is for space within a hex for larger pieces but it also makes dealing with attached leaders more straightforward most of the time. I am fine tuning this and looking for feedback. So far it seems simplest to rely on Vassal’s in-built stack commands. In the example below, right-arrow on a selected stack has surfaced the leader piece for individual ordering. Double-click frees the piece for movement.
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To improve responsiveness, units no longer have a mouse-over display. Instead, the “Special” context menu has a Player Aid option - or you can use left-click as described below. When you invoke a Player Aid, only you see it. Click on it to dismiss it again. Terrain pieces still have a mouse-over Player Aid - these are easier to manage because terrain pieces are less likely to be moused-over directly during movement and combat.
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Unit pieces are now sectioned into three visually distinct parts. These are used as follows:
- Central artwork area responds to left-click with the applicable game action (order or mark for combat)
- Text band below the artwork (blue, yellow or red) responds to left-click with the player aid display
- Top and right-hand edge of the unit piece are dedicated to the standard Vassal selection, right-click and drag operations.
It may be useful to review the annotated tutorial game (see the module’s Help menu).
I hope that you will find the new look to your liking once you have played a game or two with it. Please feedback your experiences and any issues that you may find.
Full list of changes can be found in the v5 change log .
Compatibility
Not compatible with earlier game sessions or log files, including those from version 5.0. For more information, please review the System Requirements.
Requires Vassal 3.7.12 minimum. Ideally, 3.7.13 or later.