PBEM engine

Colin,

Geesh.... Steeling my thunder huh? Damn it! That was my learn how to program
cool java programs idea. And her I am sitting between a canned project
thinking of ways that I can solidify my new java programing skills. So far I'm
still working on the interface and trying to figure out certificates.

Basically I was thinking of the following setup. A javaavplet running on a
webpage that has a collection of files and has a digital signiture associated
with it. People can then logon and and run administrative functions, or upload
orders or put them in manually or look at the current game map and status
reports in a graphical format. I was also thinking along the same lines too of
using it as a testbed for AI development so it could be a one player deal. My
thought was that throught the use of digital signitures ( assuming people
trust you and
check, yes accept I/O transaction with this program ... ;) ).  Then
players could upload orders and the main web site could update its records and
redisplay the changed conditions. It can also alert players

to who is missing turn orders, ect... I thought it would be a really neat
program. Actually speaking of threat values and stuff... I was playing around
with an algorithm to calculate beam dice at range ( while

trying to account for different mounts and total beam die in arc) to figure
out how to shoot at. But I think the shooting orders are a little awkward...
after all, some of the really neat battles I've been in players have split a
lot of their fire power into a bunch of small ships

and rendered them inoperative by just getting 1 or 2 thresholds.

I'd love to take a look at it and give you a hand. Drop me a line if you want
any 'hacking' help.

Chuck