Side view battle movement system

[Alfsigr]

Hey,


I'm wondering if there is any way to implement a movement system in a side view battle. I just need a way to divide the battle screen in for example 10 spaces from left to right. Different weapons can hit in different ways. A sword can only hit anything next to it, a spear can hit anything up to two positions away and a bow can hit anywhere. If I know how to track it I can also make different abilities based on position too (move two spaces instead of one, move all enemies one position back, attack anywhere with a sword, etc.). I could also make challenges based on position (enemies respawn, you win if you reach the right of the screen). Is there any way I could do that? I don't know any coding but I'm willing to learn.


Any ideas appreciated,


Alfsigr

 

[Andar]

Those types of battlesystems (with a movement grid) are usually called tactical battle systems.


There are a few, but they are not easy to program (which is why there aren't many) - but you need to specify for which maker before anyone can point you to them.


And no, if you're not a programmer then you better forget about writing them yourself - an experienced programmer usually needs half a year at minimum to write that, and that does not include the enemy AI (which is even more difficult if you want it to be at least minimally challenging)

 

[Alfsigr]

Thanks for the response,


It's that difficult? For clarification, I'm talking about a turn-based system. Not trying to make it sound easy, but can't I just assign a number to the positions, give all combatants a position on the screen based on that and make a move action that increases or decreases that number?


Also, I'm using RPG Maker XP but also have VX Ace if it's easier on there.

 

[Lord Semaj]

That's totally doable and fairly easy to code.  Enemy AI will need some reworking to take advantage of it though.  Increasing or decreasing the distance to monsters is effectively another stat in combat, Position stat.  That stat can "defend" you from certain attacks.  I know there are front row/back row mods, maybe they can be used to have 10 rows instead with the monsters being included in the rows.  But again, AI programming is the trick.  Your players can move just fine but the monsters won't.

 

[Alfsigr]

OK, so from where I'm standing this is basically what I need to do:


1. Code a new stat: position. 


2. Make a graphical change based on this stat


3. Defend from actions based on the stat and the weapon


4. Make a new "movement" action


How would I start with that?

 

[Kes]

I've moved this thread to Learning Ruby and RGSSx. Please be sure to post your threads in the correct forum next time. Thank you.