THE CIVIL WAR PBEM Conventions
Updated 070428
Random Leader Entry
- To determine which leader is entered randomly, use a die roll and enter
the leader in the leader pool based on his alphabetically order. For this
purpose, ASJohnston is a A, EKSmith is an E, etc. Declare the meaning of the
die rolls if the number of leaders does not exactly match. For Example; if
only four leaders are in the pool, state you will use a 1d6 re rolling a 5
or 6 result.
Masked Leader Identity
- Earlier versions of the module used Restricted Access Traits and Masking
Layers so only the owing player could control the identity of the newly entered
leader. Per the rulebook, this identify is not revealed until participated
in combat. However this feature is of marginal value and leads to a host of
issues in PBEM. For Example, only the owning player can move his leaders on
the mapboard. In my first game, the program was confused as to who was which
side such that only the CSA player could move/enter USA leaders and vice versa.
As the issues created more than offset Masked Leader Identity, the Restricted
Access and Masking Layer Traits have been deleted. Player response will dictate
the wisdom of this situation.
Masked Theater Priorities
- This was the other use of the Restricted Access Traits and Masking Layers.
However the Delayed Notes has the same capability of concealing from your
opponent your next turn priorities. See the Notes Window Usage Help File.
Player Sides
- As the two uses meriting the use of Player Sides have been discounted or
replaced with other VASSAL capabilities, this Trait has been deleted.
- Its purpose is to restrict access of certain capabilities through use of
the defined player's password. This is an effective to control irresponsible
play practices (aka Cheating) by some potential opponents who lack integrity.
Such players are rare and reveal themselves over time and are permanently
expelled by the game community (there is no redemption). Should tournament
play ever involve high dollar cash prized, a more cheat proof system will
be generated.