That would be much appreciated!

I can also attest that it does work with Sun Java (but not GNU Java, it seems) on Linux. I just haven't managed to get much use out of it yet

I'm Nicoch on Vassal. If you log in and I'm on, send me a private message and I can teach you the interface.

Vassal doesn't simulate the rules. Vassal is just a way to get models and terrain on-screen, roll dice, and measure distances.

Okay, I gave Vassal a quick try.

Observations:

- As Nicoch writes, it´s purely models and terrain, no rules, no army builder, nothing. You click the units you think you need into a virtual tray labeled "deployment zone", and from the drag&drop them unto the "map" window.

- To differentiate formations (say two Tacticals), either label them via right-click (or CTRL-I)->model information, or better, change their base colour via right-click or CTRL-B.

- CTRL-LeftArrow or CTRL-RightArrow rotates the sprites

- When rolling dices, put a name on whatever you are doing before you roll via the TextField at the bottom of that interface, just type it in, enter, it will the appear in the log


Okay, this is what I´ve found out so far, I´m still clueless as far as measuring anything is concerned, while one can move units in 1cm and 5cm increments and rotate them after each of these, that would be far too clunky in an actual game. Knowing how to measure distances freestyle would also be nice to know.

Anyone?

_________________
Visit www.epic-battles.de the ultimate german epic site&forum!

There's a Thread tool that you use to measure distances prior to moving, shooting, etc. Also, I think there's a Ruler counter (or there will be) that can be placed on the map to show distance.

I played some 40K with Vassal, but I've not tried Epic yet. It's definately easier if you have someone to explain as you go and 10x easier if you can talk over the mic while you play.

Last time I tried to play I had some frustrating issues with compatibility with vista, but potentially we could get everyone online at the same time and have a "tutorial" game.

Yeah, rulers aren't there yet, it'd be useful. Tim seemed to be just focusing on getting the models done.

Just realized that you have to keep the LMB (LeftMouseButton) depressed in order to measure.

Always got "Range 1" otherwise...  

So that´s that.

With this knowledge, I´d basically be ready to go. Is there any way to save a map, or any depository for user-generated maps? Has Vassal40 any, might do for a few experimental games...

_________________
Visit www.epic-battles.de the ultimate german epic site&forum!

Yup yup. Just make your map and go to file and save. There's no repository yet. I'm online now if anyone wants to try to learn. I'm not very good at epic, but I'm good with vassal.

Oh, and the "deployment area" isn't necessary. It's just a way to organize your formations before placing them while you're still setting terrain and stuff. You can just drag straight from the model list onto the map.

A 'Noob' question, but do you have to move each unit in turn? also, I presume you can 'save' the game, but where?

_________________
"Play up and play the game"

Vitai lampada
Sir Hemry Newbolt

You can drag a box around multiple units and move them all at once.

And you just go to file and save.

Great to see everyone teeing-up to try VASSAL40K:Epic.  

I've found the easiest way to stay in touch with players is Skype. That way, you can see which of your Epic mates is online when you log on and, if you're looking for a game, tap them to see if they're available.

If anyone here is interested in adding me to their list of Skype contacts, just send me a PM.  

just downloading, ans also have Skype

_________________
"Play up and play the game"

Vitai lampada
Sir Hemry Newbolt

Okay. As promised, some instructions to help people get started.

I note that many users here are obviously quite technologically literate, but these instructions are aimed a good bit lower (at those who do not already have a JVM installed, for example).

I wrote these steps very quickly and from memory (I'm at work, so no access to VASSAL right now). If you spot any errors, please feel free to let me know.  

sites.google.com/site/sydneyepic

I get it, you save the map via saving the entire thing, if you want to recycle the map just delete the units and put a couple of new ones where you want.

Okay. Great stuff. I think the relative simplicity is a great bonus, there is basically nothing to understand, it´s a virtual gaming table where you drag&drop your units around and have some gaming aids like blastmarkers and templates, the computer rolls the dices for you and you just use comments to tell your opponent what you are rolling right then and there.

Skype or an IRC are ways to communicate as you would during a face to face game, "I doubled those Devastators" (end positions as on the map) and rolled 2 hits on your Warband, make your saves please" opponent does so, kills are deleted and BM are dragged on the map.

Correct?

_________________
Visit www.epic-battles.de the ultimate german epic site&forum!

Yep, that's right.

Also, what I did is just when I had some time I put down some terrain and saved a map before any models were on it, so I don't have to delete them whenever I load it.