UNIT: Radko Voda, Designer, Sandbox Design Dept. TO: Arma 3 Dev-Branch Users OPSUM: Soldier protection in Arma 3: recent changes, future progress and what might save your life.
EVALUATION
One of the most significant recent changes in Arma 3 has been the gradual introduction of improvements to Soldier Protection. The goal of the work is quite simple. We wish to bring more meaningful choices to our protective equipment, not only in terms of different weights and capacities, but also protection levels against various threats. However, because changes to this feature can have profound impacts upon the overall gameplay, we want to share our general design objectives, describe the current state and outline plans for future progress.
SITUATION
Common sense would suggest that the term 'Soldier Protection' describes the gear (vests, helmets, etc.) that protects the soldiers from harm. While that's roughly correct, a more precise definition - in the context of our game - would assert that it deals with all parameters responsible for affecting the damage mechanics calculating a soldier's state of health. Essentially, we are not only dealing with equipment, but with changes to soldiers and weapons themselves, affecting both configuration parameters and actual object data.
At the time of full release we dealt with a soldier and his equipment as 'two sides of the same coin'; the protection parameters were set up together for both the soldier of a predefined class and his equipment. In effect, the actual protection of soldiers stemmed from their predefined classes, rather than actual equipment. This approach offered a basic, satisfactory level of gameplay, which was simple to test and build content around.
MISSION
However, the underlying systems offered greater potential. In the intermediary period between campaign episodes we began to experiment with adding greater depth to Soldier Protection. After few initial missteps, we shifted our focus away from the more radical changes in favor of improving the feature more gradually in a manageable, stable fashion. Over Christmas, for example, we became aware that the state wasn't ideal and we'd like to apologise for any headaches this may have caused!
So far, we've tried to make individual items perform more closely to real life expectations and provide each faction with a more characteristic identity; in effect, creating differences between individual soldiers and across each faction. In addition, differences between various bullet calibers from different distances and angles are also more obvious. The actual effects of firepower now tend to be less generic and more dependent on various, yet nonrandom factors and specific circumstances.
NATO
NATO possess the most advanced plate carriers, which offer the best protection levels in-game, but are also the heaviest and only with moderate capacity for equipment. They come in several variants, diverse in their weight, capacity and protection level:
- Tactical Vest offers limited capacity and only the most basic bullet protection, but is quite light. - Light Rig has medium capacity, offers mediocre bullet protection and is moderately heavy. - Rig offers slightly better bullet protection at the cost of lesser capacity and more weight. - GL Rig is grenadier variant with improved explosive protection, but only with mediocre bullet protection, lesser capacity and more weight. - Spec Rig is a heavy variant simulating additional ceramic plates, with even more limited capacity and very high weight, which do offers the best bullet protection available.
CSAT
CSAT generally sacrifice solid chest protection for lesser weight and thus higher mobility. For protection they rely mostly on more advanced uniforms, which offer better protection to their extremities, such as more advanced helmets.
- Their harnesses provide the best ratio between weight and capacity in-game. - GL variant of harness provides certain degree of protection against explosives, but is quite heavy. - Tactical Vest used by few units offers limited capacity and only the most basic bullet protection, but is quite light and in concordance with their advanced uniforms it actually offers reasonably mediocre protection level.
AAF
The AAF's greatest advantage is that their vests offer a balance between protection, weight and capacity. The obvious drawback is that their equipment does not excel in any particular area.
By simulating this aspect more accurately - differences in protection stemming from different gear - we hope to offer players more interesting choices and more authentic gameplay. With the help of the community reporting issues and providing direct feedback, we're trying to address all remaining discrepancies between this design, fluent gameplay and our focus on authenticity. Keeping the game playable and enjoyable is, of course, our first and foremost priority. EXECUTION
Looking ahead, we believe that there is still space left for further improvements in this area; however, such work demands new technologies to further simulate equipment protection and, currently, there are several significant roadblocks - chiefly regarding performance - in our path. Another important - yet somewhat indirect change - will be the gradual introduction of more polished fatigue mechanics. We hope that it will improve the necessity of reasonable decision-making between protection and mobility. We've also identified more complex improvements, but we must first make sure that these will be reasonable to implement properly.
Overall, we hope that these little steps of progress will help polish our infantry gameplay. Thanks for your attention and any further feedback on this topic. It's really much appreciated!
On Wednesday 29th January 2014 , Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SPOTREP #00018 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users UNIT: Main Branch ACTIVITY: Hotfix: 1.10 (Debug tools disabled, Linux Server optimization) SIZE: ~16 MB
CHANGELOG
ENGINE
- Debugging information removed from the main branch version (more information) - Additional optimizations enabled on the Linux Dedicated Server version
On Tuesday 28th January 2014 , Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00041 on the official Arma 3 web site.
TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Scanning the horizon, Hotfix, Altis changes PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
Our Creative Brit, Jay Crowe, posted his "Scanning the horizon" blog last Friday. In it, his eagle eye was trained on the upcoming year and how we intent to keep supporting Arma 3. It's too early for specific details on what will be released when, but there's lots in the pipeline spread across all fields of the game, platform, tools and community.
We've discovered an error in the 1.10 version that merits hotfixing just the executable before we do a larger game update. A performance profiling tool meant just for devbranch, has made its way into the main version. Ironically, it can actually cause lower performance in certain situations. The hotfix to the game and Dedicated Servers will likely be released this week.
INTELLIGENCE
There will be an update to the Make Arma Not War rules posted later this week. It addresses various community concerns and feedback gathered since its announcement. Keep an eye on the website and newsletter for more information.
Brand & PR Manager, Korneel van 't Land, picked the year's first Workshop recommendation: 'Rookie' by [CZ]Sarge. He had this to say about the refreshing scenario: "This definitely is one of the most atmospheric scenarios I've played so far. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but in a very surprising way, I think it connects perfectly with the authentic nature of Arma 3. From a branding perspective, the name is just excellent - and I love how the launch trailer played with my expectations."
OPERATIONS
Encoding Lord Petr Kolář and Programming Guru Lukáš Gregor have updated the Community Wiki documentation on car configuration. With kind permission from NVIDIA, it now contains relevant extracts from the PhysX SDK references.
Not a week goes by without some contribution by Bořivoj Hlava. This week he describes a few new particle modules, and enhanced particle functionality on the forums.
LOGISTICS
Environment Design Lead Martin Pezlar and his team, are preparing Altis for its final changes (due for the "Win" campaign episode). These include two previously announced new areas: the ghost hotel and the stadium, as well as various new objects across the island. Over the next month they will be porting these changes from their internal test version to the main game's version.
On Wednesday 22nd January 2014, Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00040 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Adapt released, Humble Bundle PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
After staging the "Adapt" episode last week, it was nice to get it fully released yesterday. Have a look at the full changelog in the SPOTREP. Modders, specifically animators, may find an interesting addition to get their work converted for use in Arma 3. Owners of the (Digital) Deluxe Edition will find goodies in the Bonus folder. There are 9 new tracks for the second campaign episode (MP3 and FLAC), as well as translated versions of the digital map for most languages.
The team's focus has now shifted to several things in parallel. Those involved in campaign creation are working on the final episode. Our testers and others focusing on the new multiplayer 'thing' will be spending a lot of time play-testing that. And yes, we are working on finishing those jets we promised you. Their artwork is close to final - including the interiors and weaponry. The many animated parts are being configured and we'll need to implement sound effects.
INTELLIGENCE
If for whatever reason you have played the whole "Survive" episode, but have lost your savegames, you may find yourself unable to start "Adapt" immediately. There is a way around this, but we'd like to stress that it's better to finish the first episode before you do. Use of the campaign cheat will apply weapon pool defaults and may cause other persistence issues.
Today is the last day to get in on the Bohemia Interactive Humble Bundle! Pay what you want, get cool games from our catalog, and support charity at the same time. To thank everybody for their support so far (it breached 1 million USD), we've added two more games. Those who purchased the bundle already can claim them on their download page.
Steam has been working on a feature called Family Sharing. We will likely need to disable this for Arma 3 for the time being, while we look at solving multiplayer cheating issues.
Our company's website has been updated with our stance on monetization using Bohemia Interactive content. It details a fair and generous policy with a request to just add a notice to the media's description.
With the "Adapt" episode taking place on Altis, now is a good time to remind you about some tips running the massive island on a 32 bit OS with low amounts of RAM. This post on the forums has a few advanced solutions for those struggling to run it smoothly.
OPERATIONS
We're aware of a loss of performance in test scenarios with lots of AI spawning simultaneously (e.g. 48 vs 48 and higher). Ironically, this was caused by fixing broken AI path planning. The AI soldiers weren't planning their paths when they should which resulted in higher FPS. Our programmers are investigating ways of optimizing this and AI in general.
LOGISTICS
David Foltyn has written a small example guide for server admins on how to use SteamCMD to download the stand-alone Arma 3 Server.
Korneel van 't Land from Bohemia Interactive has informed us about Arma 3 "Adapt" trailer release.
Bohemia Interactive today released the second episode of the official campaign for Arma 3. In the new episode, titled ‘Adapt’, players take on the role of Ben Kerry, a soldier trapped on the island of Altis following a Mediterranean flashpoint. The new campaign episode's release is accompanied by a brand new trailer.
While the first part of the campaign introduced players to Arma 3's basic infantry combat and story, episode two opens up the military sandbox further, challenging players to adopt guerrilla tactics in the face of against a stronger, better-equipped enemy. The Adapt episode is made available to people via an automatic update on Steam
"Episode One helped players get to grips with the basic skills needed to survive”, said Jay Crowe, Creative Director on Arma 3. “Episode Two introduces a whole new set of challenges, giving players more freedom and responsibility in the wide, open terrain of Altis."
The official campaign for Arma 3, named ‘The East Wind’, consists of three episodes: 'Survive', 'Adapt', 'Win'. The first campaign episode, 'Survive', was deployed in October 2013, followed by the second 'Adapt' episode today. The third and final campaign episode, ‘Win’, is scheduled for March 2014.
fer has informed us about "F3 v3-0-8 (with ACRE)" release.
From the ReadMe.md file:
3-0-8 | 28 DEC 2013 Moved README.md to the F3 folder. Added BIS debug console for logged-in admins. Added Safe Start component. Added new F3 Spectator component. Overhauled F3 Name Tag component Overhauled F3 Automatic Body Removal Component Overhauled F3 Set AI Skill Component Updated Briefing Template component to reflect new faction names. Updated Mission Observers component to use BIS Splendid Camera. Updated F3 Folk ARPS Platoons component to reflect new faction names. Updated F3 Folk ARPS Assign Gear Script component to reflect new faction names. Updated F3 Folk ARPS Group IDs to reflect new faction names. Updated F3 Folk ARPS Assign Gear scripts to improve weight-distribution in fire teams and reduce overall weight Expanded F3 Folk ARPS Platoons component to include FIA platoon. Expanded F3 Folk ARPS Assign Gear Script component to support FIA platoon. Expanded F3 Folk ARPS Assign Gear Script component to offer more variety for backpacks and vests Expanded Briefing Template component to support FIA platoon. Expanded F3 Folk ARPS Group IDs to support FIA platoon. Expanded F3 Folk ARPS Group Markers to support FIA platoon. Expanded F3 Folk ARPS JIP Reinforcement Options to support FIA platoon. Re-enabled more weather parameter options in Mission Conditions Selector component. Removed now obsolete old F2 name tag component Removed obsolete F2 Tripwire Action entry in init.sqf Removed unnecessary references to Stratis in mission.sqm Disabled Weather synchronization in F3 Missions Conditions selector component for perfomance reasons Fixed minor bug in F3 Folk ARPS Platoons component. Fixed bugs in F3 Mission Conditions Selector introduced by A3 1.02.110.424
Discuss at: - BI Forums (http://forums.bistudio.com/showthread.php?149231-F3-Mission-Development-Framework-(F2-for-ArmA-3)) - Folk ARPS Forums (http://www.folkarps.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=44)
Special thanks to all contributing comrade scripting heroes (especially comrades Head, Wolfenswan, CaseMonster and Black Mamba), and to all at Folk ARPS.
On Tuesday 14th January 2014, Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00039 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Adapt, HDAO, MP optimizations PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
The time has come to resume normal operations ... welcome to Arma 3's 2014! The team has rapidly geared back up for 'Adapt' release prep, and next Tuesday it's go-time. We would like to stage the episode on devbranch later in the week, but let's see how things go as we are currently testing under data lock. Then we have an exciting multiplayer announcement dropping in February, and we'll be wrapping up the campaign with development on its final episode. Plans beyond that are being outlined with plenty of awesome stuff coming to everyone. Good times ahead!
INTELLIGENCE
A new and splendid HDAO post-process effect has been implemented based on a technique by AMD engineer Layla Mah (thanks!). The effect is DirectX 11 only and brings improved visuals and an interesting potential performance boost (1-12% based on settings). Find it on devbranch in the video settings, under AA && PP (AO drop-down). Another example of continued cooperation with various hardware partners for optimizations and new tech, are recent performance improvements to stencil shadows via Intel.
Designer Bořivoj "Druid" Hlava has posted documentation on the so-called Advanced Hints (used in the Field Manual e.g.).
The main website's Community Focus was updated with two new videos, a police modification and a tools installation guide.
OPERATIONS
There finally is some solid movement on the multiplayer optimization front. Over the past weeks our programmers, David "Dwarden" Foltyn, and several community admins tested the new build quite a bit. They are already reporting significant performance increases, as well as better load-balancing on CPU cores. There has also been a fix to make (dedicated) headless clients function again on passworded servers. These improvements are set to arrive with the next update (version 1.10 - both the main game and servers).
In December we released the first version of the Arma 3 Server for Linux (as well as Windows). Our programmers would like your feedback on using the Linux server specifically in this forums thread. Thanks!
LOGISTICS
In case you are experiencing difficulties running the Arma 3 Server tool, please try the following two steps:
* Make sure the steam_appid.txt in the installation folder contains value 107410. Unfortunately the Steam client currently automatically changes this to 233780 with every update of the app. We're trying to solve this with Valve. * Add -mod= to your shortcut for running arma3server.exe (to ensure it will load the correct add-ons, i.e. not those from the main game installation).
To also repeat a general tip that may help performance for any Arma 3 player: run file verification in the Steam client for Arma 3, and defragment non-SSD storage.
Korneel van 't Land has informed us about AAF Reinforcements Pack for Arma 3 release.
Prague, Czech Republic, Wednesday 11th December 2013
Bohemia Interactive today released the (free) AAF Reinforcements Pack for Arma 3. Supplied via an automatic update on Steam, the package includes a variety of new sandbox content, among which three new vehicles: the FV-720 Mora IFV, the MBT-52 Kuma tank, and the Wy-55 Hellcat helicopter.
The FV-720 Mora is an infantry fighting vehicle used by the AAF. They were bought by the AAF from the British Armed Forces and reconditioned to serve two more decades. The Mora is armed with a 30mm cannon and a coaxial machinegun, providing not only a carrying capacity, but also reliable fire support.
The MBT-52 Kuma is the main battle tank used by Altian Armed Forces. A batch of a few dozen tanks and spare turrets were bought under-price from a south-European country facing an economic collapse. Like similar MBTs of the era, the Kuma is armed with a 120mm cannon, a 7.62mm coaxial machinegun and a remotely controlled 12.7mm HMG. The level of protection for the crew is also remarkable, thanks to additional armor layers.
The Wy-55 Hellcat is a multi-purpose military helicopter, most suited for anti-surface, battlefield utility with limited transport capability. It replaces its predecessor the Super Lynx, improving the maneuverability, durability and protection. The armed version is fitted with twin miniguns and unguided rockets.
Aside the new vehicles, the AAF Reinforcements Pack also includes other sandbox content, such as the LRPS sniper scope, infra-red grenades, and black versions of the MX rifle family. The complete changelog can be found on Arma 3’s official website. People can purchase the Arma 3 (44.99 EUR/39.99 GBP/59.99 USD) or the Arma 3 Digital Deluxe Edition (49.99 EUR/42.99 GBP/64.99 USD) from Steam and Store.bistudio.com. A boxed version is also available at many of the major retailers.
On Tuesday 10th December 2013, Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00038 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: AAF Reinforcements, Dedicated Servers, Winter holidays PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
Welcome to the last SITuation REPort in 2013. We'll be out of comms for a few weeks during the holiday period, returning on 14.01.2014 with our weekly updates and many awesome things. Wrapping up the year, tomorrow sees the release of the 1.08 game update - including the AAF Reinforcements Pack. But that's not all! We can finally bring you the free and stand-alone Dedicated Server package on Steam - for Windows and Linux. The tools suite will be updated with a few fixes as well.
2014 is going to be an amazing year for Arma 3. Things are only just getting started, and we are all committed to continued support. Thank you for your contributions to making 2013 a spectacular ride. Have a fantastic winter holiday period, and see you all soon!
INTELLIGENCE
Devbranch will not be updated from 16.12.2013 to 03.01.2014 (it will resume on Monday 06.01.2014). The branch will be slightly ahead of 1.08 during that time, and have the MP performance diagnostics enabled. It is also likely to have the experimental tweaking of character protection incorporated to gather feedback, unlike the 1.08 main branch.
Development on the 'Adapt' campaign episode is wrapping fully this week. It will then enter final testing under data lock until its release on 21.01.2014.
Make Arma Not War - by now you will have seen our company's announcement of this huge €500,000 modding contest. Part of an effort to take modding to the next level, we are looking forward to seeing the creative and unique results! We also hope this will be a great thing not just for content creators, but for all players out there - being able to play work-in-progress and final entries throughout the year.
OPERATIONS
There was one release that may have slipped by unnoticed due to the contest announcement. Last week we published new content licenses to support creatives working with Bohemia Interactive titles. The framework will hopefully clear up what is and what is not allowed, and make things generally more transparent. Visit the Q&A thread for more information and to ask any questions you're left with.
Together with the licenses, we have released a huge set of licensed data packages (samples, game data, models, textures, animation files, etc.). They can be used to learn from and to derive other content from - just keep in mind the specific license for each package. They are available via torrent (recommended due to bandwidth stress), FTP and also as a special 'Beta' branch for the Arma 3 Tools Steam app (licensed_data_packages). Caution: this branch will download more than 22 GB of data!
LOGISTICS
The previously mentioned Dedicated Servers can be downloaded via the standard Steam client (Arma 3 Server in library filter: Tools). Administrators can also use the command-line SteamCMD utility. The app ID is to be 233780. We should also point out that both servers have been tested on a limited scale and there may be unforeseen issues to solve in 2014 (especially for the Linux variant). We are releasing them now to gather feedback from a broader range of network situations and distributions than we are able to simulate in-house.
Last week we mentioned compatibility issues between BattlEye and real-time ESET scanners. The latter partner has begun targeting this on their end, and they have a solution which they are testing. Future updates to their software should therefore work with the anti-cheat technology much smoother.
Our programmers have fixed an old issue in triggers. There is a much-reduced update delay after triggers are created (not yet in 1.08). We highlight this because scripters may want to check their timings and execution orders are not affected by this.
Prague, Czech Republic, Thursday 5th December 2013
Bohemia Interactive, creators of the critically acclaimed Arma series and the standalone version of DAYZ, today announce the €500,000 Make Arma Not War content creation contest for Arma 3. With cash prizes ranging from €20,000 to €200,000, spread across four different categories, Bohemia Interactive challenges people to deliver their best work yet - and potentially move onto the radar of hundreds of thousands of Arma 3 players.
Using the game as their platform, people can compete in four different categories: Total Modification, Singleplayer Game Mode, Multiplayer Game Mode, and Addon. The headline prize will be awarded to the winner of the Total Modification category, where the sole victor will be taking home €200,000. In the other categories, prize money is divided between 1st place (€50,000), 2nd place (€30,000), and 3rd place (€20,000). Projects which show a lot of potential might also be offered a contract by Bohemia Interactive, whether they have won the contest or not.
“We’re delighted to be running a contest of such an incredible scope. The Make Arma Not War contest was brought to life to support our dedicated community of content creators, and stimulate the exciting culture of creativity that has formed over the years”, said Ivan Buchta, Creative Director at Bohemia Interactive, and one of the contest organizers. “Of course, with the stakes being this high, we’re expecting people to raise the bar – and we hope Arma 3 players will be there with us, to boost morale, and enjoy the fruits of the contestants’ hard labor.”
In addition to the €500,000 in cash prizes, Bohemia Interactive is also proud to announce a unique collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), who will be handing out the Health Care in Danger Special Award. Given to the entry which covers the topic of ‘health care in danger’ the best, the winner(s) will go on a one-week trip to an ICRC mission in a foreign country, organized by the ICRC.
While the application period is scheduled to open in 2014, people are already welcome to start working on their project. The closing date for submissions is October 28, 2014, after which a jury of Bohemia Interactive representatives and other industry professionals will begin to evaluate the finalists in each category (10 in the Total Modification/Multiplayer Game Mode/Addon categories, 20 in the Singleplayer Game Mode category). The winners will be announced on January 15, 2015. More details, including how people can cast their vote and support their favorite projects, are to be announced at a later date.
“With the launch of the first Arma game in 2001, we’ve laid the foundation for our series’ long-standing history in user-content and modifications. It has led us to enjoy many amazing creations, among which is the popular DAYZ mod”, said Bohemia Interactive’s CEO Marek Spanel. “Support for mod-making has always been a priority, and with Arma 3, our goal is to take it to the next level. The Make Arma Not War contest, as well as Arma 3’s integration of the Steam Workshop, the updated EULAs, and our refreshed Arma 3 tool suite, is all part of this effort. We can’t wait to see what comes from it!”
The rules for the contest, which also includes information on dates, prizes, and categories, can be found on www.makearmanotwar.com. The Make Arma Not War website will be updated regularly, starting with additional instructions on how to apply in the beginning of next year.
Last but not least, to stay up to date with the latest developments, people can sign up for the Make Arma Not War newsletter. Important announcements regarding the contest will also be communicated via the official Arma 3 social channels (Facebook, Twitter).
Korneel van 't Land has informed us that "Adapt", Arma 3's second campaign episode will be available on January 21st, 2014.
Prague, Czech Republic, Wednesday 4th December 2013
Bohemia Interactive today announced the release date of the second campaign episode for Arma 3. Picking up from where the first episode left off, the campaign is set to continue with the release of the ‘Adapt’ episode on Tuesday January 21st, 2014.
The official campaign for Arma 3, named ‘The East Wind’, unfolds over three episodes: 'Survive', 'Adapt', 'Win'. In the first episode, players were introduced to Ben Kerry, a regular soldier who’s part of a NATO-peacekeeping mission in the Mediterranean. After a botched withdrawal trapped Kerry’s unit on the island of Stratis, in the midst of a flashpoint, they attempt an escape to the neighboring island of Altis.
"While the first part of the campaign focused on the basics of infantry combat, this second ‘Adapt’ episode plays with the other cool features of Arma 3’s sandbox”, said Jaroslav Kasny, Playable Content Lead for Arma 3. "Players will find more open and unorthodox scenarios, and with the help of guerrilla warfare, set out to defeat a much stronger enemy."
Before the upcoming holidays, ahead of the second episode’s launch, Bohemia Interactive will already be releasing the episode’s new sandbox content. Included in this (free) package are 3 additional vehicles for the Altis Armed Forces faction. The Wy-55 Hellcat helicopter has previously seen action with the British Armed Forces, and now provides a maneuverable and armed aerial reconnaissance platform for the AAF. The FV-720 Mora is a tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle best employed in combined arms warfare. Last but not certainly least, we find the fully new MBT-52 tank, brought in to the round out the faction's war fighting options. The vehicles, plus other new content such as black versions of the MX rifle family, infra-red grenades and the LRPS sniper scope, will be made available on Wednesday December 11th via an automatic update on Steam.
On top of the official campaign, Arma 3 features the massive islands of Altis (270 km˛) and Stratis (20 km˛), singleplayer showcases, factions showcases, multiplayer scenarios, firing drill challenges, more than 20 vehicles and 40 weapons, 5 factions, an in-game scenario editor, and modding support.
People can purchase the Arma 3 (44.99 EUR/39.99 GBP/59.99 USD) or the Arma 3 Digital Deluxe Edition (49.99 EUR/42.99 GBP/64.99 USD) from Steam and Store.bistudio.com. A boxed version is also available at many of the major retailers.
On Tuesday 3rd December 2013, Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00037 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Asset library, Announcing announcements PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
This week's report will be a little dry. We are going to be announcing several things later this week or generally soon™. One such announcement is to provide a specific date for the deployment of the 'Adapt' campaign episode. As the designers iterate the more open and free scenarios of this stage, other developers have jumped back into the voice recording studio this week. The briefing performance capture was recorded a while ago, but now it's time to do the final scenario conversations for all actors - as well as some new radio protocols (one of which by our own designer Nelson Duarte as an Altian local speaking English). Meanwhile Audio Lead Jan Dušek is mastering the last of five new music tracks added as a score for the episode. INTELLIGENCE
One of multiple factors that may affect multiplayer performance are various real-time security applications interfering with BattlEye anti-cheat. We are trying to look into this with companies such as ESET, but meanwhile there are configuration tips that may help you. Our programmers are also still trying to tackle the larger topic of performance in multiplayer compared to singleplayer.
The week's Workshop dev favorite is presented by QA Developer, Ondřej Kužel. His pick: 'Close Air Support' by StrongHarm, and here's what he had to say about it: "This mission, even though there are some bugs, really shows how an aerial mission should look like. It feels authentic with its implementation of military procedures, but it still strikes a fine balance between simulation and game elements. Also the voice-acting is excellent, and overall there are just plenty of details which add to an incredibly rich atmosphere. This mission definitely belongs to my all-time favorites!"
OPERATIONS
"Where are my jets?!" Don't worry, the NATO and CSAT Close Air Support jets are still under development. These are fully new and detailed models (exterior and interior), with lots of moving parts, so they need a bit more time to become ready for service. And besides these fixed-wing aircraft there are more assets under development to be patched into the game.
LOGISTICS
Senior designer Karel Mořický has taken to the Community Wiki and spammed it with a huge and complete Arma 3 asset library - with pictures! The library can be sorted by various categories and gives you useful technical details, such as class names, weapon load-outs and descriptions. This export is automated on our end, so we intend to iterate it with every major update of the game. It should be a nice reference guide for scenario designers and modders.
On Tuesday 26th November 2013, Joris-Jan van 't Land has reported a SITREP #00036 on the official Arma 3 web site.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: AAF vehicles, Licensed data PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
Last week was packed with reports; after the usual SITREP, we followed up with a SPOTREP for the 1.06 patch release. On the same day there was the premier TECHREP, to keep track of the release and updates to the Arma 3 Tools suite. Initially we'll be updating the tools on the same cycle as the main game, but we'll see how that goes. Keep reading for some hints of useful additions to the package coming up soon!
Another thing in the pipelines for imminent staging on devbranch: three more vehicles and a sniper scope! These will be part of the next game update. Find some more details below.
INTELLIGENCE
With the 1.08 update we'll be releasing the following AAF faction reinforcements (and more sandbox content):
- MBT-52 Kuma - Main Battle Tank for the AAF - FV-720 Mora - the AAF's versatile Infantry Fighting Vehicle - WY-55 Hellcat - maneuverable air transport and fire support for the AAF
The tank is entirely new and made from scratch by our artists. The IFV has seen action in BAF, but was vastly improved and given lots more detail. The copter was also passed on from the BAF, got new armament, skids and a fresh lick of paint.
A fresh rotation of the Community Focus widget takes a look at machinima, an Arma gaming community, custom soundtrack work and a whole bunch of scripting tutorials.
OPERATIONS
We'd like to give you some idea of what we're working on adding to the tools suite. There are still some secondary tools to add, such as the FSM editor and TexView. Further away, but in the works, is Steam Workshop integration. This is more complex than scenarios have been, but we consider it an important effort. Terrain creators among you are wondering why there is no Visitor release yet. This is unfortunately not quite so easy. Visitor 4 is based on licensed technology and we are not allowed simply to release it. We need to find consent of the licencor first before we can make it available to the community. We'll keep you updated.
Together with a crack team of Top Men, Ondrej Kužel (Oukej) has started some work on AI configuration. The goal is to: define how individual AI config params affect AI behavior, document and refine these settings; provide the common player more meaningful control over the difficulty of the AI; enable mission designers more useful control over AI configuration. If you'd like to keep track of this work or contribute some ideas, check out this forum thread.
LOGISTICS
Ready your broadband connections, because we stand on the verge of releasing lots of data for modders. Barring any showstoppers, we will next week be releasing data from pretty much all Arma 2 content. This will be done under new licenses, that make it possible to use the data to release within Arma games. It will no longer require case-by-case requests to use Arma 2 models and textures for Arma 3 mods for example. Things should be clear and accessible for anyone!
You can find the tools package in the Steam library (switch the filter to "Tools") - "Arma 3 Tools" You will probably need to start Addon Builder (primary tool) once to add all needed registry entries for the rest of tools See SITREP #00035 for more intel about this initial release
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Update 1.06, Tools release PRECEDENCE: Flash
SITUATION
While we are working on the 'Adapt' episode, let's focus this week's report on the other kinds of Arma 3 support! The next main branch update (1.06) is in final testing at the moment. Assuming this goes well, we'll update the game later this week. The update is primarily focused on miscellaneous fixes and on-going maintenance. One important aspect is the fix of surround sound character dialogue, during the campaign especially.
Another release now in final testing: the Arma 3 Tools package on Steam. Modders will finally receive the first iteration of this suite, focusing on building add-ons. It makes it easier to prepare their new models for the game (Binarize, Oxygen, CfgConvert, etc.). Included as well are special 'render worlds', which are basically single color backdrops for e.g. chroma key machinima work. A collection of Arma 3 sample models and configuration files provide clues as to creating your own characters, cars, tanks, weapons and buildings. In no way is this a one-time final release. As with the game, we will be updating and iterating the package. Later iterations will go beyond add-on building, providing additional and improved tools and samples. When will all this start? It should drop together with the aforementioned game update! After release, you'll find it in the Steam library's Tools section - ready for a quick install.
INTELLIGENCE
Andrew 'Dslyecxi' Gluck has put up a video explaining the various versions of his Tactical Guide available. The guide has grown and matured over eight years, taking all the experiences from playing the Arma games and beyond. The TTP3 edition targets Arma 3, but looks at the whole series, tactics & procedures in general, and community efforts. Recently, a free online version was published. There's also an e-book edition that can be purchased from Store.bistudio.com, a grayscale print version, and coming up: a full-color print edition. Stay tuned to our online store for that one.
Senior QA team member Bořivoj Klíma, who also does a lot of the coordination on Feedback Tracker, has shared his personal Workshop dev favorite. His motivation to select 'Convoy Escort' by Tim: "It's a short and simple mission, where you follow the daily routine of an AH-9 Pawnee pilot. Especially the start of the mission at the base is very convincing, and overall, I just really appreciate the realism and atmosphere."
OPERATIONS
A recent Tweet by one of our designers reminded us of a great page on the Community Wiki, all about script optimizations. It's a good read and reminds even our developers of good practices, better algorithms and the way our Real Virtuality engine handles threading. In closing, there's a method for measuring your own script's performance: BIS_fnc_codePerformance.
LOGISTICS
The recent work on fatigue and personal protection (body armors and such) on devbranch, has been temporarily disabled. Why? Both need more time for tweaking and testing, and we want to release a main branch update this week. After this patch is out, work in these areas on devbranch will resume.
FROM: Project Lead TO: Arma 3 Users INFO: Campaign episode 2, Fatigue PRECEDENCE: Flash SITUATION
The second campaign episode is currently undergoing its most busy development period. The playable content team is evaluating the scenarios, gathering internal feedback and starting final iterations of the flow and logic. Meanwhile the texts (briefings, hints and dialogues) are all being fleshed out to prepare for this episode's final voice acting and MOCAP work. And, there's still a significant new multiplayer feature coming to Arma 3. We look forward to finally speak about its specifics soon™.
INTELLIGENCE
Scenario designer Thomas Ryan sat down with our embedded Report In! crew to speak more about his work on, among many things, the campaign. He does drop in some 'Survive' spoilers, so be careful if you haven't played it yet.
OPERATIONS
Devbranch has received its first iterations of on-going fatigue tweaks by designer Radko Voda, also involving weapon sway. Today the initial version was updated with tweaks based directly on feedback. There may still be animations which are incorrectly slowed down, but they are being systematically hunted down.
LOGISTICS
Another topic for which feedback is actively being sought is UAVs. Designer druid Bořivoj Hlava has opened a thread to collect outstanding issues, priorities and general
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Armed Assault info site is closing
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