Mars Explorer - Mars Explorer 2.1 Preview

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 1:45 GMT

Got over 70 failures seen in my bug posts =|

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/10/16 - 23:44 GMT

Sounds sweet! Thanks, Aubrey. Rock on!

Aeo

ACC (christianwarrior)

1 day - 4,280v

Posted 2009/10/16 - 23:53 GMT

This is a good addition to a GREAT game.

Thank you for all of your hard word.

Sincerely,

Christian Warrior

SR1- (tffan765)

14 hours - 1,447v

Posted 2009/10/16 - 23:59 GMT

IT'S HERE!!!! IT'S HEREIT'SHEREIT'SHEREITSHEREITSHERE IT'S HERE!!! HALLELUYAH! thank you aubrey! finnaly, there is a jet to satisfy everyone and to take ME to new heights! (literally!) just some tiny, tiiiny problems w/ the jet.
1. auto-accelerate....what's up with that? (i know you need to fly up/down, but i have a solution to this) why don't you have t and g (or any other combos) for speed shifting?
2. turning is really hard in the jet. it steers kinda like the hovercraft. is there any way to fix this problem or....not? (maybe steering it like a jet on video game would help)

p.s. i think it looks REALLY cool when i take-off in the jet with no flame behind it, and then when i get up to speed, the flame comes out (this looks extremely cool)

jamespwns

5 hours - 647v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 0:32 GMT

I know that this is the vast preference, but maybe in 2.2/2.3/sometime else you could add mappable keys, or just t/g; m/n; or even up/down as speed control, and maybe an auto accelerate? But I love the design and everything about it, especially the VTOL function! And congrats on the new buggy animations!

Zorf Mc Zorfenburg (Zorf)

14 hours - 1,301v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 0:35 GMT

Awesome. I could fly around all day! Only problem is that the jet is WAAAAYYY to fast! I can whiz past the volcano in a milisecond! We really need to "cool our jets". Ha ha ha... I just made the worst joke ever... Whopee!

xana

1 day - 4,196v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 0:51 GMT

I like how easy it is to fly in laser tag mode :DD

It'll need some getting used to :P

Because I can't land on the landing gear XD

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 0:52 GMT

Its really hard to turn. BUT OTHER THAN THAT, ITS AWESOME! THANKS AUBREY!

「Rolf」 (wintergreen)

5 days - 8,177v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 1:00 GMT

Its awesome, but it makes the hover almost useless because the jet is basically a faster, more controlled, flyable hover.

jet

5 days - 7,361v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 1:18 GMT

ITS HEHRRRRRRREEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OMMMMMMMGGGGGG exept it handles like some sort of chopper, i dont know, it just feels wrong

Stupidguy12

4 hours - 441v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 1:34 GMT

The jet looks great, but it handles like it's skidding around. Why not make it feel like the buggy's flying and then loosen up the buggy's aerial grip which will allow it to slide a little-preventing things like pulling out of a 300 mph fall horizontally. Just sayin'.

-Stupid

Stupidguy12

4 hours - 441v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 1:46 GMT

Also, while flying the jet I noticed that the jet can fly through lava without any resistance. Uhh...

Anyway, this is definitely the best mars ever. Keep working hard and this will continue to be amazing.

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 2:53 GMT

Wow... all I can say is this is amazing. I can find no real fault with this, except the glitches concerning connectivity. Thank you for your hard work, and I hope you will continue to do a great job with this.

T.S.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 5:38 GMT

Stupidguy, please don't even be "just sayin" about changing the handling of the now perfected Buggy.

No no no!

Enable Stall Blending to solve your complaint about the Buggy. Bam

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 6:22 GMT

Jet is amazing. Extremely fun, handling is perfect, do not change a thing.

To me, i think people that want "better handling" are also the same type of people that want insane settings, in some cases. It may be faster, and all else, but less fun, in my opinion.

The only problem i see so far is the jet is able to fly through lava with ease... This almost negates the purpose of the sub in the future. I would prefer the sub has a purpose.

Thank you.

(ACC) ( SR-13) (simonoz)

28 minutes - 138v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 8:10 GMT

luv it. for those who dislike the handling, landing mode isgreat for steering. I think the jet is designed for fast transport. if you want handling, use a buggy

MOD- The file converter (supercheese)

4 days - 10,991v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 9:12 GMT

Ha! epic Explorer! This is a Moment of Glory!

Super Cheese

Richard (richardb)

1 week - 14,133v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 11:43 GMT

Thank you!

The physics when e is down is almost perfect but normal physics don't work so well, think about what would happen aerodynamically I know I'm going on so I won't mention each inaccuracy but take a look at hawx, free demo is on the PS store, copy those physics, mainly how it makes turns, and keeps momentum in manoeuvres like the flip where you throttle back and pull up 360 degrees without making a loop the loop.

Keep up the good work. :)

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 12:11 GMT

2.1 isn't working for me! I'll click on the link, but just a black window will pop up! I played 2.0 before by downloading it, but there is no download for 2.1!!

Richard (richardb)

1 week - 14,133v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 12:12 GMT

set safari to 32 bit using get info in finder

AppleSky

1 week - 20,293v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 12:28 GMT

If you would like more information, visit this page at unity.

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 13:24 GMT

Still not working! I changed the safari to 32 bit but it still didn't work! AND I'm banned from firefox! Don't ask why.

Sunmonkey2

4 hours - 368v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 15:10 GMT

Wow, this is cool! I have a little trouble with the jet, but this still rocks! A million thanks, Aubrey!

AppleSky

1 week - 20,293v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 15:49 GMT

A problem that's been following me since 2.0:

My poor old Powerbook G4, when loading world's with multiple objects like Unity Island or Freestyle, stops after downloading the first thing and attempts to "Initilize" it like it was the whole world. It is running Safari 4 with Mac Os 10.4.11.

EDIT: After discussing this with several people, one common factor is the presence of a PowerPc processor which I believe to be the reason for this glitch in one way or another.

ACC (PR)

20 hours - 2,482v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 18:04 GMT

I just had an idea for the jet. I noticed that it flies equally well under lava as over it. What if it was made so that it was the same as for the buggy in earlier versions - that it got stuck on top and could only see under. This would give it a much needed disadvantage, as well as being more realistic.

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 18:50 GMT

I dont totally get how and why the firing system was changed but i hate it.

It's terrible.

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 18:51 GMT

This is great I love it. I have the same problem as apple.

ACC-MRC-U.P. Brigader-Stuporman-((•))- (B_man)

1 day - 3,710v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 19:14 GMT

GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!! GLITCH!!

When coming out of xorb mode, the agility on the jet seems to go WAYYYYYYYYY down. But the slider dosn't move!!!!!!

Help!

ACC-MRC-U.P. Brigader-Stuporman-((•))- (B_man)

1 day - 3,710v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 19:15 GMT

I have apple's prob too!!!

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 19:15 GMT

Turn on landing pads then turn them off, should be fixed after.

ACC-MRC-U.P. Brigader-Stuporman-((•))- (B_man)

1 day - 3,710v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 19:17 GMT

thx!

ACC-MRC-U.P. Brigader-Stuporman-((•))- (B_man)

1 day - 3,710v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 19:18 GMT

and whats up with that line, coming out of the front of the jet

Flynn Clubbaire (mod) (flyclub)

4 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 21:04 GMT

Targeting laser.

Morb (MoRbEuS_2142)

1 day - 4,105v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 21:36 GMT

EDIT: Nevermind! Let the Jet dogfights BEGIN!!

{deBAMmed by Aubrey...}

SR1- (tffan765)

14 hours - 1,447v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 21:41 GMT

what the HECK?!?!?!? lol

ACC-MRC-U.P. Brigader-Stuporman-((•))- (B_man)

1 day - 3,710v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 22:35 GMT

thx fly!!

Morb (MoRbEuS_2142)

1 day - 4,105v

Posted 2009/10/17 - 23:25 GMT

VALIANT PILOTS DIE WHILE PROTECTING HELPLESS KITTENS FROM EVIL N00BS

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 1:00 GMT

Common Questions Answered:

Throttle:
The throttle is configured as an INPUT AXIS. Just like the "vertical" or "horizontal" input axes, it has a neutral point, a max, and a min. It is neutral by default, and by holding a key, you can set it to max or min. It has to be this way, because it's neutral point is controlled by the physical throttle position on your joystick if one is present - and the keys are there only to temporarily override it. If there is major demand for it to "stick" to a certain position and for keyboard keys to increment or decrement it a bit, I can add this as an optional setting. I can't set it as the default setting, because it would make no sense when a joystick is present.
Flight Model - "it feels wrong", "It should just be like the buggy", "Too fast", "it looses momentum in turns too easily", etc:
Unlike the buggy (which has a completely unrealistic flight model that has no basis whatsoever in reality), the jet's flight model is calculating the forces from the thrust vectored thruster, airfoils (based upon angle of attack), drag and airfoil stall (dependent on speed, aoa, etc), etc dozens of times per second. It is perfectly possible to pull a loop or turn without loosing speed or falling out of the sky - all you have to do is keep your wing's angle of attack low enough to avoid stalling. Because the jet is super high performance and includes thrust vectoring, you can also easily enter a stall at any speed, point in any direction you would like while rapidly decelerating, and then exit the stall in your desired direction. Read about supermaneuverability - understanding the concept will take your flight skills to the next level. Also understand that because there is no pilot in this jet, and because it is constructed of an indestructible material, we don't have to worry about the extreme G forces that would be associated with this if you were to try it at home :)
I will be further refining the flight model, but I consider it to be quite decent in it's current state.
Mappable Keys:
You can already map your keys however you desire. Hold your ALT key when starting a native app version of Mars Explorer to activate the input mapping and resolution setup dialog.
Lava Physics:
Have not been implemented yet. The jet will float, and will not be submersible.
"Terrible firing system":
The jet flies far faster than green lasers do. Since it looks really dumb to leave the projectiles you are firing in the dust, I added the ability for lasers to inherit the speed of their firing vehicle. As explained in my original post, this will alter your optimum aiming strategies. If you don't like this change, I can certainly understand that. Please let me know how you would prefer for the lasers to work.
Red line pointing forward:
Important component of future weapons system.
Xorb bug:
Thanks! will be fixed.

Oh - and if everyone could keep chatter to a minimum, that would be great :)

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 1:09 GMT

I agree of the flight abilities, it just feels great and authentic.

I'll have to try out the key customization when the next app comes out, thanks for the tip.

As for the firing system, i can't say exactly but simply put i'd like my lasers to go where i aim for them to go instead of a bit ahead of the target.

Thank you.

knightrider666

1 day - 4,505v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 1:26 GMT

I love the jet. but something about flying it doesn't feel right. In a normal jet, if your going fast your turn gets wider. In the mars jet, it just stops and have to regain speed. Although the Buggy doesn't have these effects when gliding. can you give the jet the buggy's flying characteristics?

Richard (richardb)

1 week - 14,133v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 1:53 GMT

Hmmm an example of modern jet physics would be if you keep the stick back (hold down/s) until you have done 360 degrees you will not stall at high speed in fighter jets and also you won't lose momentum too much, you should gain and then drop about 2 jet lengths of height (not exactly loop the loop) as in real life the aim is to get behind the jet in front of you by moving aside (up) and back (slowing down). Not a much needed move but if this works it's proof the physics are perfect.

Yeah perhaps that setting should be added :/ for thrust.

Oops supposed to be a reply to Aubrey. :O

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 2:41 GMT

Don't pull back as hard!

"Modern jets" have AOA and G force limiters which prevent you from squishing yourself or tearing the jet apart. The Mars Jet doesn't, because it doesn't need them. This allows you do do REALLY awesome stuff, such as a cobra maneuver at 800 mph. Tap the arrow keys instead of holding them down, and you should be able to execute graceful turns and loops with ease and precision.

the real (Aeroborne)

3 hours - 358v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 3:44 GMT

The same thing has been happening to me. Are you perchance using Mac OSX Snow Leopard?? I had leopard and upgrade to snow leopard and it stopped working. If you download the application it works fine. but I think this disables you from trying online versions until they come out. Am i right?

knightrider666

1 day - 4,505v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 4:13 GMT

yah, your right. I guess it just takes a little getting used to. to much time on FSX, not enough time on Mars. :)

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 4:53 GMT

Im becoming more annoyed with the firing system... Besides it just being far more difficult to hit a target while moving, it gives sit 'n' shooters an unfair advantage. I'd very much appreciate this be fixed. Thank you.

jackal

1 day - 3,527v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 5:55 GMT

all martian vehicles have gravity cushions, so all acceleration is compensated for, making it impossible to squash yourself against the wall of the cockpit. :)

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 6:34 GMT

Aubrey, I have a question.

*Since 1.9.8 and into 2.1, myself and others are taking solid laser hits, at least in buggy that fully disturb the vehicle and create a visible laser splash that don't register a quarry or score change.

Is this on purpose?

*Also Aubrey, would you consider making AeroCam behave as Chase does regarding horizon VS buggy wings deployed or not? I would love to use AeroCam for buggy but wing-flicking causes massive visual jitter when cam tries to upright the horizon when wingless.

* Though the jet is, beautiful, has super-cool landing gear, is fun to fly and matches the plane's behavior in this video> Supermaneuverability, I prefer carving turns in the buggy which has truly reached it's peak handling performance in both driving and flying. I am not complaining or asking for any jet changes however, just to be clear. Although I read you description, I also don't quite understand the jet laser aiming experience but will figure it out.

Unrealistic as it may be, the buggy provides more fun flying for me than the MarsJet (in this version) and the buggy's "feel" is superb!

*More buggy flight speed would be helpful when competing with jets....OH!...... and re-armed tanks. :)

*I would love an option to retro-color my buggy to classic. (shhh kruncher, don't push it)

* Please consider, at some time, reducing buggy shocks parameters? Most every game I join, all sliders are maxed to the right to "increase performance".

*Thank you for this outrageously stupendous game!

*Seb - your Sky Monster is incredible, spooky and I love the 'gator hyde upholstery!

*GTR - Regarding the looks of the jet? It is simply perfect! There is a saying in the aircraft industry: "If it looks right, it IS right!" and the MarsJet is right! with proportion, styling lines and all the little details most visible when the Sun reflects just right!

Richard (richardb)

1 week - 14,133v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 20:27 GMT

It does slow down too fast when you deliberately pull up hard like I said before though.

ACC GLASTIE (dinamicdiamond)

5 days - 10,423v

Posted 2009/10/18 - 22:59 GMT

OMAPOMAPOMAPOMAPOMAPOMAPOMAP JET!?!?!??!?!?!?!!?! EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

snares

20 hours - 1,882v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 1:02 GMT

but they also have airbrakes... yaw right and left, and pitch, this doesn't!!!

Dray (Deathray)

3 days - 9,443v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 1:37 GMT

I wonder what that "future weapons system" was...

(exited)

FlyingMonkey10

2 hours - 460v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 4:19 GMT

i love it!!! finally we can have powered flight instead of gliding or having to do loops. thank you so much Aubrey!!!!!!!!!!!

FlyingMonkey10

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 14:29 GMT

.........it works....... it works..........finally........ MARS EXPLORER 2.1 WORKS ON MY SIDE OF THE IMAC!!!!

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 18:59 GMT

Glast you sound very sad :P!

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 19:02 GMT

LOL

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/10/19 - 19:03 GMT

Lol.

jackal

1 day - 3,527v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 2:59 GMT

ACHOOOOO!!!!!!!! (sniffles)

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 12:27 GMT

LOL WOAH

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 12:29 GMT

LOL

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 13:17 GMT

lol

also, Aubrey, PLEASE dont change the handleing of the JET! Its AWSOME how it is right now!! I dont think you are going to anyway, but i just wanted to say that I LIKE IT!!

ACC (PR)

20 hours - 2,482v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 18:34 GMT

BAM!

(sorry, i couldn't make it bigger.)

Morb (MoRbEuS_2142)

1 day - 4,105v

Posted 2009/10/20 - 18:53 GMT

No, no, you're supposed to do it like this:

{deBAMmed by Aubrey...}

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 1:07 GMT

Aubrey,

Smart Cam is extremely delayed now, very jumpy in it's movement,

Please try to smoothen it out.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 23:37 GMT

To upright an upside down jet, hold down A and S keys at the same time.

|Wingman| (Forge)

1 day - 1,976v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 0:45 GMT

Thanks Kruncher, thats really helpful.

No seriously I hate being upside down...

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 1:59 GMT

Both of you don't gots bamming skillz :P...

its like this...

{deBAMmed by Aubrey...}

ACC (supermarinespitfire)

4 days - 9,044v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 3:07 GMT

Aubrey, I love this version and everything but, I hate the firing system. The problem is when it inherits it firing vehicles speed it will move forward when aimed to the side. for example: you aim at a certain point on the ground perpendicular to you course, instead of going straight to that point it moves sideways according to your speed. It makes it extremly hard, especsaily with the speed of the jet to hit anybody.

best regards,

Supermarine Spitfire

Nikki (Ren467)

6 days - 14,388v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 3:16 GMT

It ain't my old mars....but it sure is new and exciting and all that. Luckily I can just go back to 1.9 and such to remember mah good old days. I am a tad nervous to try out the new version, for fear of it freezing my computer again.

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 6:00 GMT

*** Major Update Just Released ***

Massively enhanced jet flight physics:
If the jet was good before, it's really good now. The new jet literally flies circles around it's predecessor of several days ago... Thank you to everyone who commented that it wasn't quite correct before - you sure were right! :)
- Airfoil lift is now calculated as a square of forward speed and not just a multiple of it. Can't believe I missed that...
- All drag, stall, etc states now feature blended transitions for maximum flight smoothness
- Atmospheric density gradient implemented. 10,000 alt is the atmospheric equivalent of 100,000' on earth. Take your jet to the edge of space and back again!
- A new onboard flight computer automatically utilizes thrust vectoring to optimize the jet's yaw for incredibly smooth banked turns. You can manually override the computer with your joystick's 3rd input axis or your R and F keys. You can also now use R and F to precisely spin while hovering.
- Turns are now so much more graceful and natural that I was able to disable all the auto-turn with roll stuff. This should make joystick flight far more intuitive.
Lasers are deadly accurate again, and also keep up just fine with the jet:
Lasers now only inherit the forward component of their firing vehicle's velocity into their forward axis, as a ratio of their firing angle to the firing vehicle's forward axis. In essence, they go where you point them.
Rudimentary new autotargeting system for incredible dogfights:
Steer your vehicle directly towards another player, and the green sight line emanating from your vehicle will turn red to indicate a weapons lock. When you fire with an active lock, your vehicle's computers will automatically calculate the correct trajectory to intercept your target. If your target is moving in a straight line at a constant speed, they are toast. I am working on a targeting algorithm to account for exceleration and turns.

Minor Tweaks:

Every laser hit you see should now be counted. Thanks Kruncher!
Interestingly enough, this issue is far more complicated than it appears at first glance. Networked player positions are interpolated, which means that the networked players you see on your screen are a little bit back in time from where they are on their screen. This presents interesting challenges when calculating weapon hits, because what is a solid hit from one player's point of view is a clear miss for another. Mars Explorer "scores" hits on the computer of the person who fired the laser, because they knew what they were aiming for. It attempts to fake the same relative firing angle on other networked computers, but sometimes you will see a laser hit you on your computer that was a miss on the firer's computer - and that therefore was a miss. Laser hits are now never even calculated on networked computers, but instead, their hit position is broadcast from the firer's computer when necessary. If everything is working correctly, all hits you see should now be counted - from any computer's point of view.
Fixed jet agility drop after xorb deployment. Thanks B_Man!
Slight jet hover bias towards settling to help with parking
"Flight Cam" now always activated when flying, "Hyper Cam" option now simple locks to vehicle rotation instead of horizon. Flight camera logic adjusted for optimum visibility and maximum enjoyment by Kruncher :)
Jet hover mode is now fully steerable even when hover thrusters are at zero throttle
Jet firepower server setting now syncs correctly
Fixed dash appearing in guest usernames on welcome screen when changing names after playing a game

High Priority for future release:

Enhanced autotargeting
Jet Bouyancy
Bugfixes
World presets
Whirld Caching

Nikki (Ren467)

6 days - 14,388v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 6:10 GMT

Oh my word. I read the entire thing on the link that said "square"
dear lord that made my head hurt. The whole c= I don't even remember but man that was long!

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 6:39 GMT

Aubrey, something has gone wrong with these Cam alterations when flying the buggy.

*Do I need to remove a plist from User/Library/etc/Preferences/Mars Explorer to get the new HyperCam to lock onto buggy rotation regardless of wing deployment? (pics below of 2.1 after computer/Safari restart and clear cache)

*Also, SmartCam now jerks forward WITH wings and falls back WITHOUT wings producing a visual lurching when using the wing-flick technique. This new view seems more practical like RC but the zoomy enjoyment of SmartCam is now drastically reduced.

*I'm terribly sorry to complain but I was hoping for Chase Cam's buggy rotation following combined with original SmartCam's feel of speed.

*What you describe as a "massive" enhancement to Mars Jet is exactly that! WOW!

*Thanks for attending to the laser hit situation. I noticed it even more when other player was in Europe so your explanation makes sense.

Thank You

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 14:45 GMT

It works great! I can't wait for you to make it so that the target-finder can account for turns! It will level the playing fields somewhat, and those lasers... much better than before. The jet's handling is simply AWESOME, I wouldn't change a thing (unless you can make it better :P ) The target finder is amazing, works like a charm. Even though it is quite hard to find your target, once you find it... BAM! Overall, this is a great update, and I hope you keep more coming.

T.S.

ACC, MGFC (2cul2play)

1 day - 6,259v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 20:39 GMT

Hey aubrey! The new version is incredible. I love the jet. The only problem is when I'm flying, and I turn upside down to close to the ground. My jet stops and flips upside down. And it stays that way, so I need to reset. Perhaps there could be a little arm or something that flipped it upright? That would be great.

Then I was in a dogfight, and I found another problem. I know the new targeting system just got added with the red laser, but it's still far too hard to hit a moving jet. I was thinking more of an advanced lock on system. Maybe if you pressed a button, a box would appear around the target. When your cross hair is in that box, it turns red, just like the laser pointer. The only thing would be if you shot while the box was red, it would automatically hit, kind of like a homing-laser.

Thanks and again, GREAT version.

Grae

9 hours - 1,241v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 21:05 GMT

this jet is amazing! I love it! But, I found another problem. When you are holding "alt" down to aim, and holding accelerate, you can't press "D" to turn right! It's a pretty minor problem, but it really impacts gameplay. If you could fix this, that would be great!

GTR34

4 days - 10,025v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 22:01 GMT

That could be true with other keys. say you are holding down the forward arrow, the back arrow, and the right arrow at the same time in a buggy. It probably won't turn because two other keys are being used, it's a weird system thing.

Grae

9 hours - 1,241v

Posted 2009/10/21 - 22:46 GMT

yes, but you can turn any other direction just fine

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 20:56 GMT

{deBAMmed by Aubrey... Folks - we are trying to engage in productive discussion here: please refrain from excessive bamming :) }

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 23:03 GMT

***More Fun New Stuff ***

I just procured a joystick, and have been perfecting the input system for optimum compatibility and fun. Some other small updates managed to sneak in as well...

Fine tuned joystick controls:
- Throttle now properly oriented
- Rudder input optimized for high speed flight
- When commanding a vehicle that doesn't need yaw or specialized throttle input (such as the tank, hovercraft, or buggy in non-flight mode), the joystick yaw and throttle axes are now automatically linked to the horizontal and vertical axes when the horizontal and vertical axes are null. In essence; you can control the speed of your vehicle with your joystick's dedicated throttle, and turn your vehicle with a slight twist of your wrist. When you need super fine control for precision maneuvering - just start pushing your stick around, and Mars Explorer will override the rudder and throttle inputs as necessary.
Fine tuned firing controls:
- Joystick fire button now ALWAYS fires - regardless of whether mouse cursor is over GUI or not
- Laser cooling is now more intelligent, remembering what laser type was fired last and waiting for the heat it generated to dissipate before allowing any laser types to be fired again, and also cooling at same rate in snipe mode as in regular mode @ level 3 firepower
- Weapons locking now automatically detects the optimal laser type and fires whenever you achieve a lock. You concentrate on flying your best, and your vehicle's computers concentrate on aiming for you! The computer verifies that you are either quarry or locked on quarry before firing, ensuring that you don't accidentally riddle friendlies with ultra accurate laser fire :)
Perfected weapon locking:
- Lock logic now analyzes targets for several frames to determine their acceleration before firing, taking the lock accuracy to a whole new level.
- Locked laser hits are now calculated on the target's client, removing any potential for network lag to disrupt your aim.
- I have experimented with incorporating curcular movement analysis into the lock code, but opted to forgo it. As it is, dodging locked sniper lasers is pretty difficult - and you can adjust the server's laser speed to achieve any level of accuracy that you desire.
Airbrakes for Jet

Next on the agenda is enhanced visibility in larger worlds, smoother cameras, and more.

ACC (g-man)

1 day - 5,793v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 23:08 GMT

{deBAMmed by Aubrey... Folks - we are trying to engage in productive discussion here: please refrain from excessive bamming}

Nikki (Ren467)

6 days - 14,388v

Posted 2009/10/22 - 23:09 GMT

{deBAMmed by Aubrey... Folks - we are trying to engage in productive discussion here: please refrain from excessive bamming}

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 0:01 GMT

{deBAMmed by Aubrey... Folks - we are trying to engage in productive discussion here: please refrain from excessive bamming}

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 0:20 GMT

once more, I love thsi version!

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 1:09 GMT

Hey Aubrey, the auto-target is fun and all but its a bit harder than before. Could you make the auto-target a server setting?

knightrider666

1 day - 4,505v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 1:20 GMT

This goes up to my previous comment, but I was afraid a quote wouldn't get seen.

I know that the Mars jet doesn't have G-Force limiters, but could you possibly set it as an option? It would make flying much easier for those who aren't gifted in the art of Mars Flight.

I do love the new version though, all the worlds a great, and the graphics and frame rates are awesome.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 2:10 GMT

Aubrey, please consider putting back original SmartCam?

Sorry.

Thanks.

jackal

1 day - 3,527v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 22:04 GMT

How did this sink to page two?

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/23 - 22:45 GMT

Regarding auto-locking lasers:

Cricket (archer)

15 hours - 1,282v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 1:07 GMT

2.1 is great Aubrey! Keep up the good work! : )

(I still like the Buggy best, though! XD)

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 6:13 GMT

*** Another day, another update ***

In this release, I have focused on making everything a little more simple, beautiful, and fun. I hope you enjoy it!

New sky: Yes, the old sky was awesome - but the new sky is awesome too! In addition to being awesome, the new sky is 1/3 the filesize of the original - and it also enabled me implement some other tricks to make vehicle material reflections perfectly seamless and incredibly smooth. One of the techniques I used on the new sky resulted in some fascinating fractal like shapes appearing in it - if they bother everyone I will figure out a way to generate the sky without them surfacing :)
Circular world boundaries: This is a subtle change, but it makes the worlds feel so much more polished!
Fine tuned world materials and vehicle headlights: At the "Beautiful" rendering level, headlights should now be smoothly cast on every terrain surface. The default block texture now also includes bumpmapping, which is an incredibly neat effect that makes it look like every single octagon has it's own depth details.
Enhanced world visibility: The server settings now include a "Visibility" slider, which defaults to FAR farther than was even achievable in previous game versions. World fog is now a rich blue color that blends nicely into the new deep space sky, and it automatically adjusts itself to compliment the visibility distance. The Game Settings panel now includes a server visibility override to drop the visibility on your computer to enhance your framerate if necessary. Crusing through large worlds like Unity Island or Neon's Infinity in the jet is now an even more incredible experience than ever before. It makes me want to start work on some truly large worlds :)
Tuned laser sounds: The sniper laser now has a lower pitch than the green laser, and both should roll off more smoothly as you are firing.
Smoother Smart Camera: There should now be minimal "visual jitter" when transitioning between flight and driving modes in the buggy.
New 3D pointer in the lower right of the window always guides you to the world materialization point.
Rendering settings reorganized and simplified: Automatic rendering settings optimization (which never really worked great anyway) has been replaced with a more intuitive guided manual version.
Throttle keys hint text shown at lower edge of screen while commanding jet.
Smaller default weapon lock target objects, requiring greater precision to achieve a lock.
More conservative firepower selection in weapon lock mode, resulting in slightly less sniper laser bombardments at close range.
New setting for individual vehicle type weapon locking: As per the conclusions reached in our all-encompassing discussions conducted in this thread earlier today, you can now specify the precision required to achieve a weapon lock for each type of vehicle! The settings default to only enabling locks on jets, meaning that you can not automatically lock to buggies, tanks, or hovercrafts. Conversely, any vehicle can lock to a jet - which should bring the jets far closer to a perfect balance with all the other vehicles. You can adjust the locking for any vehicle type with the "Lsr Lock" next to that vehicle's "Firepower" slider.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 9:08 GMT

Hi Aubrey,

*Thanks for your sobering responses in said all-encompassing discussion.

*The new sky and especially the visibly is awesome!

*The spawn pointer is very useful!

*The reflective vehicle material adds....palpability? It draws me into the feel of being there. Love it!

*The SmartCam? Well, I am BEGGING you to return the original SmartCam! The result of my original, unsuccessfully described request has backfired on me something fierce and I can't use 2nd or 3rd generation SmartCam at all. lol

Thank You

ACC (g-man)

1 day - 5,793v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 13:00 GMT

heres some pics from freestyle....

love the new world style!

kirby_freak (kirbyfreak)

1 day - 3,077v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 13:12 GMT

Hey Aubrey, I think there might be a glitch on the tank. I'm not sure. While I was playing cano king in my Labyrinth, on of my tracks got ripped off my tank and fell through a hole in the arena. I could drive, but my vehicle kept lurching forwards and made driving a slight bit harder. A few minutes later though, it reappeared. Is this bad? (It was kinda funny though.)

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 15:27 GMT

This is really cool.

Grae

9 hours - 1,241v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 17:27 GMT

oh yeah! I was there!

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 18:26 GMT

Agreed.

Smart cam: I dont understand how or why it was changed but bring it back, it's terrible now. It shifts visually when wings go in and out and just looks off in general.

Aiming system: I think it's a noble idea, helping you it a super fast jet and such, but there is no skill involved. It helps them in the short period but in the long run it's just awful.

Also, outside canopy firing in any vehicle is about the same as the auto firing system. It requires no skill and hinders players in the long run. I'd like to see both features be GONE, not just a server setting. Anything that can hinder a players skill should be done with.

Sorry to be so blunt. Thank you.

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 20:01 GMT

Two thing,

The visibility option is stupendous! I LOVE it. The dark blueness is so calming and relaxing.

Another thing, i would prefer auto shooting not be an option, but if it is to be, i try to take it off but all players still have it.

I have noticed in myself even a feeling of laziness when using it. I feel like it's a lightsaber and when it lines up with the target i win, but all that takes is some turing of the buggy. It's not good at all in my opinion.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 22:19 GMT

I am now so utterly confused about the camera situation. Follow, Chase I don't know......the button moves around depending on SmartCam activation.

I will make a thread about camera ideas later.

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 23:29 GMT

I also can't quite place what is wrong with Smart Cam, and I've done extensive testing on it alone trying to figure it out...I just don't know

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/24 - 23:47 GMT

I gave a flawed example of how I was requesting it to be tweaked. Actually, I wasn't hoping for SmartCam tweak at all. It was AeroCam's horizon rotation being influenced by buggy wings that I was hoping to have changed.

Moocman

17 minutes - 21v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 3:14 GMT

When you said "Turns are now so much more graceful and natural that I was able to disable all the auto-turn with roll stuff. This should make joystick flight far more intuitive." Does that mean when you roll, it dose not auto turn for you? Also when you use the keys R and F, does it override yaw control permanently, or only for that time, like thrust control (Q and E)?

SR1- (tffan765)

14 hours - 1,447v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 4:13 GMT

100th post! and AWESOME, even with jet problems. :D

Picard

3 days - 8,661v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 4:25 GMT

A minor bug: the Laser Lock on the jet is getting false readings. When I was the only one in a server, it still fired as if it has locked on. Strange.

★ (KingDvo)

1 day - 3,696v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 5:15 GMT

Personally, I don't see what's wrong with the smart cam. But, the blue reminds me more of Jupiter. I love it!

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 5:32 GMT

KingDvo, try flicking your buggy wings in and out (tapping space bar) while flapping in SmartCam.

ACC- (TheApocalyticPanda)

2 hours - 212v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 22:47 GMT

this looks awsome yet i cant load the window do i have to download something new or what

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/25 - 23:01 GMT

PANDA! Applications Folder>Safari>Get Info>Check the box for 32 bit mode>try loading page

Wright (The-True-Masterflyer)

7 hours - 1,117v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 0:28 GMT

great new version but try and hold off on the versions a bit because there are starting to get too many versions I mean there are like 10 at least so let a version survive for a bit.

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 3:38 GMT

The jet:
If you strongly feel that the jet is awesome - or on the other hand, that it undermines Mars Explorer's foundations - please share your thoughts in this thread.
The camera:
My apologies Kruncher! Sounds like a rather humorous situation :)
- There are currently two main camera modes: "Smart" (the default), and "Classical" (what you get when you uncheck the "Use Smart Camera" setting.
  - The classical camera mode includes options like "follow", "chase", "bird", "RC", and more - and I haven't changed any aspects of it in months.
  - The smart camera (my personal favorite for just about everything), includes a slider that lets you adjust your follow distance from inside your vehicle on the extreme left to not moving at all on the extreme right.
- The smart camera has two strategies that it uses when following your vehicle:
  - The first strategy is used if your vehicle is driving, and it stays slightly above your vehicle unless you are climbing a hill - in which case it will lower to let you see where you are going.
  - The second strategy is used while you are flying, and it follows directly behind your vehicle as smoothly as possible.
- The smart camera's "HyperCam" option (formerly titled "AeroCam") adds the additional logic of locking to it's targeted vehicle's rotation when the camera is in it's "flight" strategy.
- My recent tweaks to the smart camera were to make it follow at the same speeds in it's flight and driving strategies to minimise "visual jitter", and to make the flight strategy as smooth as possible regardless of whether or not HyperCam was enabled.
Please let me know what aspect of the current smart camera you would like improved, and I will gladly work on it!
The laser locking:
In the latest 2.1 release, lasers will only lock to jets - and they can lock to jets from any firing vehicle. I think that this balances the game quite nicely! If your reasons for opposing the locking have not yet been adequately addressed, let your voice be heard.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 6:10 GMT

Humorous? Yes! As humorous as a rubber crutch! :)

My original request had nothing whatever to do with driving or transitions.

You know the wings-in-and-out technique some of us use by continuously tapping our space bar while flapping? I'll call it the chop-chop and the cam problems of my complaints/requests are only visible if you use it.

Please try the chop-chop in HyperCam to see that the visual jitter from my original complaint/request stems from HyperCam trying to adjust the horizon when wings deploy/retract.

Then try the wing chop-chop in Chase camera which locks to buggy rotation REGARDLESS of wings being deployed or retracted. That's what I was requesting.

My second complaint/request can be better understood by using current SmartCam without HyperCam.

Set distance slider to 4 and try the wing chop-chop to experience an odd lurching and even stopping of the buggy mid-air which is not so evident with slider on 2 or 3.

Version 2.0 SmartCam did not create this effect.

So, my current requests are:

1. Please consider making HyperCam lock onto buggy rotation regardless of what the wings are doing OR add a distance slider to Chase cam or even all standard cams?

2. Please consider returning the smooth and zoomy action of original SmartCam.

3. Please consider a consolidation of all camera-related button locations?

Thank you and sorry for the mess.

MOD- The file converter (supercheese)

4 days - 10,991v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 7:45 GMT

lol Krunch, I have been watching you change your comment for the past 20 minutes while Blender bakes!

Super Cheese

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 8:30 GMT

I am struggling supercheese. It's so hard to describe this stuff. Practically everything I write makes little sense when I re-read it.

MOD- The file converter (supercheese)

4 days - 10,991v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 8:52 GMT

Well, Just speak your heart, and the word will flow... No, just say what you think is wrong and give an example of it

Super Cheese

ACC (PR)

20 hours - 2,482v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 17:39 GMT

Wow! Exactly 111 comments on this post before me!

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 19:29 GMT

I find the Round world and visibility things very confusing when flying.

g

6 hours - 660v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 19:59 GMT

Looks awesome, any idea why it won't load for me?

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 20:40 GMT

G, please specify "it" and I'll try to help. Are you on Snow Leopard?

StormSurge

22 hours - 2,687v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 20:41 GMT

fix for blank screen:

Applications Folder>Safari>Get Info>Check the box for 32 bit mode>try loading page

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 22:10 GMT

In foxholes world the jet can go through grand as if it wasnt even there. It cant go through all the ground, but the outer flat lands are what im talking about.

I havent noticed this in other worlds, but i also havent played all of them recently.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/27 - 22:21 GMT

My only bugs so far are:

1. jet>auto targeting off>climb high>descend>auto shoot starts shooting and won't stop>disable lasers for fix

2. Same as reported before: Auto lasers work when enable is unchecked

chewer1

8 hours - 935v

Posted 2009/10/28 - 19:54 GMT

help! when I downloded it evry thing was the same but no jet! :-(

tyow

1 day - 1,176v

Posted 2009/10/28 - 20:59 GMT

i have the same bug as apple

kirby_freak (kirbyfreak)

1 day - 3,077v

Posted 2009/10/28 - 21:04 GMT

You can't download 2.1. The newest downloadable version is 2.0.

AppleSky

1 week - 20,293v

Posted 2009/10/29 - 0:45 GMT

I'm not demanding a response or anything, I just felt this needed to be brought up again. Here's the link to my earlier comment about "App's Bug" as it is most commonly called.

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/30 - 1:16 GMT

Where can i find this box to check for 32 bit mode? I went to the get info screen and i couldnt find it anywhere. a screen shot would be appreciated.

Needless to say, as of early today, i have been unable to play.

P.s, i didnt mean for that to rhyme :P

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/30 - 3:17 GMT

Everything I can possibly think of to solve Mars Explorer loading problems:

When loading a version or map or when hosting/playing, give your computer it's best chance.

Most of what I say here is for both Mac and PC.

* Run ONLY Mars Explorer! Any additional programs like chat, myspace, iTunes, youtube and such add work for your computer to do. This goes for browser AND app versions. Check for programs that are set to automatically open at login.

* NEVER, EVER minimize the page and NEVER, EVER go to another program when hosting! This gives all your players a Not Responding and stops the game cold. Plus, it prevents anyone from joining your game.

* Get ALL FILES off of your desktop, into a folder and stashed away. Your computer has to work to keep files like music, pictures and especially movies on the desktop. Some shortcuts are fine.

* Check your hard drive space. Macs begin to run slower when whey fill up storage space and probably PCs too.

* If on PC, try de-fragging your hard drive.

* Run ONLY one browser window.

* Clear your browser cache.

*Trash your old Mars Explorer app using AppZapper to remove associated files.

* Clear your browser "cookies". (I know you want to but please don't clog Aubrey's thread with dum stuff about cookies okay?)

* Try a different browser.

* Test your connection speed. FREE Speed Test

* Restart your computer. Sometimes it helps. Macs perform tiny self-repairs when started up.

* Shut your computer down, unplug all wires including the power cord and let it just sit for ten minutes.

*Try Resetting PRAM and NVRAM if on a Mac.

* Some cordless phones (when in use) can interfere with wireless routers, even from a neighbor's house. You might try bypassing your router by plugging the Ethernet wire directly into your computer.

* If you live in a household with multi computers on a wireless network, try to play when only one computer can be used for Mars Explorer.

* Set automatic backups on apple Time Machine for when everyone (including you) will be asleep.

*If on Mac, read this excellent book called "De-Gunking Your Mac".

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/10/30 - 3:20 GMT

Resolved.

I restarted my computer.

Thank you!

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/01 - 23:18 GMT

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/01 - 23:23 GMT

sup peoples i got an account woo ok i think the jet is cool but not as reliable as the buggy cause it stalls alot when turning and is well... only ok in dogfight but other than that its really cool kepp up the good work abruey. P.S. do you think on unit island you could make a platform in the sky about 3000 kilometers high

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/01 - 23:50 GMT

dont think im lame cause im replying tomy own comment but i just like talking so i want u to be the very bestdo ya wanna be a master pokemon pokemon just kidding :) ok so i want u peoples to think of a neww weapon (example: plazma rockets) then star posting the idea (that u will all agree on )and and start talking about it and posting every where then abruey will have to add it in 2.2 (but dont make 2.2 for a while abruey please)

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/01 - 23:52 GMT

Sorry i misspelled on my last post i'm not trying to be a noob.

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/11/01 - 23:52 GMT

I like updates as soon as Aubrey has any time, because we all know he is very busy. (speaks in baby voice to self. (LOL))

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/02 - 4:33 GMT

so yuor a pilot now aeo well im glad some one acually posts stuff

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/02 - 4:38 GMT

ahh im so sorry i keep misspelling

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/02 - 5:24 GMT

So Aubrey... i noticed that when lazers have full power theyseem to bouce off of things i would send you a picure but i dont know how to take screen shots. (how do i take screen shots? :{ ) and also why do u ask personal info when people get an account? So as Glast would say *GLOMP*

MOD- The file converter (supercheese)

4 days - 10,991v

Posted 2009/11/02 - 7:36 GMT

You probably turned laser Rebound up to max

Super Cheese

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/02 - 23:52 GMT

thx super cheese u helped me alot

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 0:00 GMT

:[ im at school right now trying to load unity player but since the school computer sucks i cant :[:[ waaaaahhh

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 2:04 GMT

ghbds

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 20:48 GMT

*** New version up! ***

Super cool new sliding panels system to organize the Server Settings, Game Settings, (new) Player Settings, Active Players, Vehicle Switching, and Rendering Hints windows
Completely redesigned camera system. All cameras are now smoother, much less confusing to access, and more configurable! "Smart" and "Classic" cameras have been merged, and all can now be accessed in the new Player Settings panel. Let me know what you think Kruncher :)
Vastly improved game audio! Laser shots now sound incredible
Faster zooming starfield transition when joining games
Faster game load time (MUCH faster world load times are in the works, but require some serious logic that is still being developed)
Incredible new rendering effects - including realtime shadows!
Lots of performance tuning for optimal framerates
Smoother GUI buttons - no more missing lower corners
All GUI elements now look great @ lower rendering quality settings
Green arrow now moves more smoothly, and is scaled properly when sniping
Fixed materialization point disappearing at low rendering quality levels
Fixed weapons locking guide disappearing at low rendering quality levels
Fixed lasers not correctly inheriting firing vehicle speed all the time
Fixed game quality level not always adjusting quality
Jet is now buoyant
Laser lock settings now sync correctly from server to connected clients
Jet landing gear state is now properly synced for networked players
Smoother wingtip trails
Native OS X App is now available for MacDane to fine tune his joystick's input mapping :) Hold your Option key while the app is starting, and you will be presented with a configuration dialog. If you download this app, be sure to check for updates manually because it won't realize that it is out of date when 2.1 goes "final"

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 21:09 GMT

Ok, this version is great, but what is the "Trial Version" thing in the bottom corner?

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 21:29 GMT

Re: "Trial Version":

I activated the complimentary 30 day trial of Unity Pro that comes with the free Unity, which has allowed me to implement some of the really cool stuff in this release such as shadows and extensive performance tuning. I am seriously considering purchasing it before the trial ends...

The "Trial Version" text in the lower right corner of the game pertains to Unity Pro, and not Mars Explorer :)

Tigerstorm

1 week - 14,192v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 21:43 GMT

Ok, that's what I thought. Thanks for clearing that up though! ;)

GTR34

4 days - 10,025v

Posted 2009/11/03 - 22:47 GMT

But I thought it...couldn't get... any... better...

:)

Good work Aubrey!

Mars Explorer is now beyond words for me.

It's incredible, phenomenal, Excellent, out of this world LITERALLY.

It's just...

I CAN'T THINK OF SUCH AN AWESOME WORD TO DESCRIBE IT AUBREY I JUST CAN'T

Thank you so much for this.

BTW I sent you a pm about cars, I don't know if you got it yet, just checking :)

><> (ACC-cody)

1 hour - 139v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 0:02 GMT

it would be cool if aubrey would make air shows

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 0:09 GMT

Dear Aubrey, Date: 11/03/09

I have been having some problems with the new update for 2.1. First of all, whenever I load the version 2.1 all this fuzzy stuff comes up and my screen goes wacko. Then when I join a game it stops. I have also been having troubles with the scroller things. When I press on them they won't work. Lastly You said that the loading times would be "faster". Well to me they aren't going very fast at all. I know that you are still working on this matter. Thanks.

~ Jim

ß∑πøîç¨ (Benoic)

14 hours - 2,995v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 2:13 GMT

what is that cone in the corner of the screen

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 2:21 GMT

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 2:42 GMT

The New Camera Views

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/04 - 2:30 GMT

Though each recent build of 2.1 cameras gets further from what I was trying to request/describe, I still appreciate your efforts Aubrey. I am aware that any change in this game takes a bunch of time on your part to implement.

My sincere apologies to everyone for not keeping my mouth shut about the 2.0 cameras in the first place.

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/11/06 - 15:55 GMT

*** Networking Updates ***

I have spent the last several days deep in networking design - and just wanted to provide everyone with a status update.

As of last night; Mars Explorer 2.0 and 2.1 are now connected to a new, specialized Master Server build that is running on it's own dedicated hardware. Master server connectivity should now be lightning fast and rock solid. If anyone is still experiencing the occasional "Can not connect to master server" issue, please let me know!

I am in the process of creating a special "server" version of Mars Explorer that will be deployed in bulk on various dedicated servers throughout the world, and which will host games that anyone can connect to - but which should be much more reliable and smooth than the current networking setup where players are hosting games directly from their own computers over their residential grade internet connections.

This will be a major step forward in terms of game design - and if everything works as planned - reliability and precision gameplay.

Other superficial updates such as the new camera that simply stays behind your vehicle which I have received so many requests for are also in the pipeline :)

All the best!

-Aubrey

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/11/06 - 15:59 GMT

Tank you Aubrey!

AppleSky

1 week - 20,293v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 0:03 GMT

Question:

Would the settings be able to be changed on the dedicated servers? And just making sure, will we still be able to host our own games as well?

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 0:51 GMT

My current vision for the dedicated servers is that they will be running all the time - and the first person to join them when they are empty will become (In our current sense of the word) the host for the duration that they are playing. When they leave, the server will still be running - and they will be able to pass off their host status to whoever they choose!

The main Mars Explorer client will also retain all of it's code that allows it to act as a server when necessary - which means that you will still be able to play LAN games without being connected to the internet.

In essence, when you click "host game" your copy of Mars Explorer will find an available dedicated server to attach to - and you won't even have to think about it. Everything will work like it does now, except better :)

Grae

9 hours - 1,241v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 1:31 GMT

Wow! Nice job!

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 3:04 GMT

HEY PEOPLE IM BACK AND IM TYPING AWAY!!!!!!!!

ok so if your listening abruey you should make calyx forest a non custom server because it is awesome and i belive aeo will say more about it later

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 6:51 GMT

Regarding the CAMERA VIEWS being merged;

I like ice cream and I like onions but I would never consider consuming ice cream merged with onions.

For me, this ongoing cam situation has been a grotesque Twilight Zone style nightmare scenario where I am kindly asked for input on a possible tweak that I request and each diligently coded camera build further exaggerates what I was originally hoping to eliminate by nearly typing and retyping myself half to death in the comments until the nail-biting crescendo where the hotly debated topic is centered mostly on the less critical GUI but meanwhile, in one merciless stroke of the Guillotine, four specifically useful, hard-won, favorite, magical, time-tested, famous, brilliant, perfectly tuned and extremely fun CAMERA VIEWS are suddenly homogenized and corrupted, therefore losing each of their unique identities thus creating an unnecessary, dimensionally impoverished and confoundingly unpresidented DOWNGRADE in the BUGGY piloting experience!

And now, it's assumed that our one and only criterion for a good cam is that 1. it stays behind the vehicle? and 2. cam tweaks are superficial?

I'm anxiously hoping that the director of this horror movie will soon yell "CUUUUUT!" then return Follow, RC, Bird and 2.0 SmartCam.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 6:51 GMT

glitched while posting..........loading.........loading.............

Moocman

17 minutes - 21v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 9:26 GMT

If you have my opinion, I don't like how you've merged Classic and Smart. The camera mode now is too level, too fixed and not dynamic enough. I prefered classic mode more, but never smart cam.

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 12:48 GMT

Aubrey my screen goes wacko every time I try to do something.

{SR-26} [ACC] Riku (the_n00binator)

1 day - 3,671v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 13:06 GMT

How come in the corner of that pic it says "Trial Version"?

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 13:09 GMT

I have another problem. There is no lava!! When I went to Deathrays base I was looking for the lava funtion thing. But it wasn't there! Were did it go???

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 17:32 GMT

"superficial"? A cam view? Not to most of us!

re: "so many requests for"I am only aware of one person (Olim) requesting tweaks to the new cams.

The rest of us malcontents (sadly only a helpless handful) are begging for a return of the previous and IMAO vastly superior CAMERA VIEWS with the controller being far less important at this point.

The overall slider GUI style is great but could open/close more quickly?

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 17:38 GMT

dude krunch the new camera view is not to bad and also i like the smartcam better

★ (KingDvo)

1 day - 3,696v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 17:52 GMT

I have a glitch too!

Whenever I'm in Fullscreen mode, I can't use any of the sliders!

Help me out Aubrey!

GalaxyAwesome

16 hours - 1,155v

Posted 2009/11/07 - 21:03 GMT

Here's another glitch for ya, Aubrey. When I try to load Freestyle, it will load normally, but freeze up as soon as I join the game. I don't think it happens with the other terrain worlds(because I know it doesn't happen with Eric's Maze.)

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 6:03 GMT

ABRUEY u need to make a server with lots of wicked awesome ramps and promote lazer shows made by MRC-DFC-ACC-Col.dsscandpupp

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 6:18 GMT

I think that all block worlds have no lava. It either isn't supposed to be, or will be later. Dont worry about it.

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:19 GMT

Actually, I find it very easy to fly in speed mode with the camera set to spectacle in player settings. You should try it

^_^

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:20 GMT

The speed is one of the best parts, this jet should have no changes and should stay in the game, it RULES ^_^

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:23 GMT

Right on! ^_^

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:29 GMT

The problem with the slider is it doesnt slide, instead, you have to click where on the bar you want the amount to be, basicly, it doesnt work when you drag it, you have to click on where you want it. Hope this helps!

~Jetster ^_^,

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:32 GMT

GET THE NOOOOOOOBBBBBSSSSS!!!!! they must die to avenge the pilots death!!!!!!! >_<

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:35 GMT

*_*

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/11/08 - 21:39 GMT

(For the second time) Take a chill pill, Jetster.

2.1 is awesome, btw, in case no one knew lol

pirana (petey)

2 days - 7,083v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 2:30 GMT

i am just wondering how to play your lvvl that you make from unity on Mars XPLR

-petey

HEY

5 minutes - 2v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 8:42 GMT

HEY! (lol)

Um.. i just tried ur 2.1 trial and i thought it was pretty good. after reading the discription, i finally worked out how to fly the jet. the only problem is that it flies funny. it doesnt fly like a real jet. it sort of handles like the hovercraft. the jet would be so cool if you could fly it like the buggy.

keep it up. another suggestion would be styling up the car a bit. and the tank. maybe have secondary weapons and explosions.

MOD- The file converter (supercheese)

4 days - 10,991v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 9:06 GMT

It isn't a trial. Also, the jet's physics are pretty good. Also mars explorer isn't about explosions... however, I love the idea of bombing a pile of Bots one day...

Super Cheese

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 10:57 GMT

Oh dear. when i play 2.0 or 2.1, this is what is in the settings.

uh oh....

ACC (g-man)

1 day - 5,793v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 15:32 GMT

just refresh the page.

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 22:27 GMT

Jet physics are good or bad by opinion.

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 23:08 GMT

Bug Report,

I believe that either the server list, or my computer, has failed me.

I have refreshed the page several times,

I have restarted Opera 10.1 Several times,

I have gone to My backup browser Flock, and restarted it several times,

I went to Internet Explorer, with no luck.

I cleared the cache and all cookies in all three browsers,

and then proceeded to restart my entire computer when that failed.

Nothing I have tried is working.

My question; does anybody else have this problem, or am I the only one?

If I'm the only one with a problem, what could be causing it, and how could I fix it.

If I'm not, this is something you need to look at and make priority number one Aubrey.

Here are screen shots of;

The start page as it looks in Opera 10.1,

My Internal and External Ip,

And my computer stats and RAM Space.

Sincerely ~ TheDude

babag

5 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 23:09 GMT

You are not alone dude.

cheezburger

3 days - 11,764v

Posted 2009/11/09 - 23:11 GMT

neather are you baba same problema esta here too

AppleSky

1 week - 20,293v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 2:19 GMT

And to add to your very comprehensive list, the Mac Os X app doesn't work for 2.1, the app for both Windows and Mac version 2.0, and also the widget for 2.0.

Espada (neon)

18 hours - 1,876v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 3:31 GMT

When I was at the 2.1 server list (if I could even cAll it a list because nothing was on it) but the point is at the bottom of the page it said 5000 errors acurred (sumthin like that)

oh an answer for those with scroll bar problems,
instead of dragging the sliders you must click were you wan't them to be.
This problem only happens to me in fullscreen mode.

NEW GLITCH!!!!!!!!!
Vehicle controls lock when chat box is disabled!!!!!
Aubrey, pls take note of that problem.

Aubrey (admin)

2 weeks - 17,114v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 5:27 GMT

Sorry all - my bad!

I spent last night and today reconfiguring my main work computer's software from scratch and taking the opportunity to organize every piece of work I have ever done and tool I use in the process. I just finished and was about to enjoy to satisfaction of a job well done, only to find that I hadn't configured the new Master Server service autorestart system properly and that it had been down for most of today...

The problem is corrected now, and everything should be running perfectly again.

Please let me know if you experience any more difficulties with the master server.

-Aubrey

lizzle

1 week - 27,311v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 7:02 GMT

Thanks so much Aubrey!

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 13:59 GMT

No prob Chief! Thanks!

JImElite12

2 days - 6,421v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 21:57 GMT

Thanks Aubrey the Master server is working again! Job well done.

Wright (The-True-Masterflyer)

7 hours - 1,117v

Posted 2009/11/10 - 23:37 GMT

all I understood was the jet's physics have been improved

sorry I didn't go to college yet

thedude

2 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/11 - 4:02 GMT

Thank you ever so much Aubrey!

TheGeneral

8 hours - 964v

Posted 2009/11/11 - 12:09 GMT

THX SO MUCH

teriva

1 day - 3,243v

Posted 2009/11/12 - 21:06 GMT

BAMeroshouse

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/13 - 23:02 GMT

WICKED :0 ^_^

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/14 - 17:17 GMT

remember people we need a new weapon (like blowy upy rocket launchers :D ) but abruey u dont have to make new weapons i just like rockets (there're coolio)

Canadien (Aeolese)

1 day - 6,266v

Posted 2009/11/14 - 17:21 GMT

this game is not about weapons, remember? read the FAQ.

MRC-DFC-ACC-dsscandpupp

5 hours - 252v

Posted 2009/11/15 - 16:59 GMT

i know the game is not about weapons but i just want some rocket launchers

ACC (g-man)

1 day - 5,793v

Posted 2009/11/15 - 17:10 GMT

master server not working again O_o uh oh.

kruncher

3 weeks - 32,767v

Posted 2009/11/15 - 18:09 GMT

Hi Aubrey,

Since Dude hid his camera thread, I would like to say my piece here.

re; "distortion" - I appologize!

re; GUI confusion - Both MacDane and myself now understand the new way to access cams and it makes sense in theory and when described but still, it's not intuitive for us and a few others I've spoken with when using it. I can live with it though. Vita's brilliant idea is for 3&4 to make incremental distance changes as you tap on them as a refinement to range control but are letter keys out of the question for distance control?

re; camera confusion - The currently available versions of SmartCam, Follow and RC are all closer to the vehicle than their previous versions and therefore were unrecognizable to their habitual users including myself. Hence my comment "dimensionally impoverished". Thanks for explaining how to access them!

Please consider modding the current cams to incorporate;

* 2.0 SmartCam's distance to vehicle (entire range) and look into a hesitation at the top and bottom of the flapping curve in 2.1 (Agile) 4

*1.98 RC distance to vehicle

* Classic Follow's distance to vehicle.

Thanks for reading and thanks for modding HyperCam!

Saghelie

46 minutes - 53v

Posted 2009/11/15 - 18:41 GMT

I say this is extrodinary. Already took it for a test drive :) (the jet). When the full approved one comes out, it will be awesomeness! Cant wait to test out the new weaponary!

Racing Revolution Jetster (FLYING) (Jetster)

6 hours - 713v

Posted 2009/11/18 - 21:58 GMT

Coollll!!!

O-|-< (Destroyer)

5 hours - 641v

Posted 2009/12/14 - 3:49 GMT

It's my b-day!

TheGeneral

8 hours - 964v

Posted 2009/12/16 - 19:11 GMT

I have this glitch where when I deactivate the wings on the buggy, the moment they leave, they come back out. I deactivate them again, and they come back out immediately. This usually happens about 3-8 times before it stops. This happens more often on freestyle than any other world.

dash

1 day - 2,159v

Posted 2009/12/16 - 21:51 GMT

For the record, The pictures up the top is a CLONER!!! of me!!! son of a gun!! lol