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1.6 Beta 4 on SDC

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1.6 Beta 4 on SDC

from GalCiv2 Forums

change log:

The biggest change in this beta is the optimzation work done on the ships.  You should notice improved framerates and improved loading times (the optimizations also accelerated the creation of ship thumbnails).  We had a save game where the framerate droped to 4 fps when we scrolled over sectors with ships, and with these changes it's now up to 28-34 fps.  Major kudos to Jesse (aka CodeCritter) for all the work that he put into this!  For those of you who like a little more  technical details, Jesse implemented a batching system for the ships, optimized the meshes for speed, and optimized the storage of the scene nodes.  If you want to check out your framerate, CTRL+F toggles the framerate counter on/off.

+ NEW: Added Starbase module to repair the starbase with Tech Requirement Advanced Hulls.  Will only show up if the starbase is missing HP, and can be 'installed' multiple times.  This module should not count towards the total modules.

+ CHANGE:  In the Ship Designer, when using auto-place to place a component, the component will use the current scale and rotation settings

+ TWEAK: You are no longer permitted to change your capital to another world, and bonuses for the capital city have been increased.

+ FIX:  Flushes resource manager’s resources when game exits
+ FIX: Fixed crash in invasion ground units
+ FIX: Fixed crash if memory does not allocate in ResourceGraphic
+ FIX: Fixed crash in ship design code if hardpoint data failed to load
+ FIX: Fixed bug where minimaps were not refreshing immediately when you started a new game
+ FIX: Added code to handle if you or your trading partner are in debt to fix flakiness with the money popup in the TradeWnd. 
+ FIX: Fixed bug in the function that calculates the morale of a colony to fix a longtime bug where your morale could permanently drop to 1%
+ FIX: Made it so that ships on the Governor minimap should show up larger when they are affected by the switch.  Also made starbases not show up on this minimap to reduce clutter.
+ FIX: Fixed typo in XML files that caused land and background textures in Invasion window to be black

UPDATE 5/21/07:  I am linking to a test build meant to address the memory issues, slowdown, and graphical glitches in this beta.  Please backup your existing GC2DarkAvatar.exe and Lib3D.dll files before extracting this zip file into your GalCiv2\DarkAvatar folder.  When making reports from this point forward, please be sure to state which version you are using.

UPDATE 5/22/07: I updated the link with a new test build that fixes the Governor screen lockup and makes the minimap stars bigger on Large and Gigantic galaxies so that they are more visible.

http://sd.stardock.com/carielf/da_1_6_b5_test2.zip



 

61,300 views 215 replies
Reply #101 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Is anyone else noticing the dim stars in the mini-map in the later betas?

Particularly on a huge map.

Or am I the lone ranger?

Yes I see what your referring to brycej, hopefully the fixed ver of B4 would also address this. But personally not a priority issue for me, it was the performance & starbase repair modules that excited me the most for B4.

The last best beta version I can remember of ever being close to stable was Beta 3 and now were just stuck with the option of downloading Beta 4.


It's a BETA version - stability is not guaranteed.

Untick "show pre-release versions" in SDC, go back to the last official release, and wait for 1.6 final release to come out if you can't handle the expected problems that are bound to occur with beta releases of any software.

Yup tried going back to the last official release which would be ver 1.5, but that in itself has issues which was resolved to an extent in B2 & B3. But hey it's just a suggestion Magnumaniac. If B4 is totally out of whack, why not even consider putting B3 back on SDC until resoulution? Just a suggestion please don't take it more than that!!!   

- Respectfully sent

Reply #102 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Stormbringer, these are beta patches for a reason. Nobody forced you to install them.


Point taken, but the initial beta was there to address some 'bugs' that were in the original release of the game. Therefore, how is one supposed to get a bug fix unless they update? Do you see what I am getting at? If the game worked fine out of the box then these updates could pound salt for all I care because the game already has 'enough' features in it to keep me happy. Hell, crashing games were what originally brought me to this website as it was the FIRST game I've ever owned that had a problem, at least a problem that was noticeable or made the game unplayable.
So if you feel the need to critique my post go right ahead since you were correct... no one forced me to download the beta... but then don't include bug fixes for the game in the beta that I have to download to get the fix for the bugs. Am I making sense now? Bug fixes should be bug fixes, not disguised in shiny wrappers as additional content. Otherwise email me fixes, send me a CD with fixes, whatever... just don't make them available only in beta.


I understand that you want a bug-free game, but it won't happen anytime soon. Even the large gaming companies ship games with bugs. For instance, I personally haven't had an issue with Galciv 2 crashing, but I get crashes all the time in Oblivion. If your game isn't crashing anymore, just don't use the beta versions of the patches, because they are likely to have problems. The beta's are there for the "powerusers" who like to help with the game development. The patches won't be betas forever. They WILL be released as a stable patch for everyone who doesn't want to use the betas. Just wait until then. You are not forced to help in the beta testing, because you will eventually get the release version of the patch. Stardock is doing US a favor by allowing us inside access to the beta version of the patches.
Multiplicity - Control multiple PCs using one keyboard and mouse
Reply #103 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
It's a BETA version - stability is not guaranteed.


I know I'm inviting some flaming for this one but... what about the 'official' retail/download version? The devs HAVE ADMITTED that there were a few 'issues' in this release... issues that would be fixed via... update, ahem. Now I am probably wrong but I can't remember any update that wasn't a beta necessarily, and these 'beta' updates are being touted to 'fix' a number of things. Therefore I have been trying to 'fix' certain issues by updating to said beta's in the hopes of playing a game that I purchased back in January in anticipation for a Feb release.
So I will say it despite my recent apologies... no guarantee on beta's running stable AND no guarantee on the actual hard release version running stable. Hmmm, no guarantee's for my money... brings up the old saying of "a fool and his money are soon parted" among some other thoughts...
Go ahead and bash away guys, I expect it. Either way, I will not sit silently by through all of this until I get a product that I can truly be satisfied with.
Beta's, non beta's... it doesn't matter, just get us the fixes already so life can go on.
Reply #104 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Stardock is doing US a favor by allowing us inside access to the beta version of the patches.


Sometimes you guys have a twisted view on things. They are allowing us inside access to help iron out bugs that their admittedly small staff doesn't have the time to look into. Therefore they are 'insuring' future purchases of their software by doing so... don't ever tell me they are just "doing it for us". Sorry if you guys feel that I'm being harsh with this, but I've been waiting patiently for some fixes which are ONLY being rolled out in beta updates. By your logic, I should just shelf my game for X amount of weeks or months until an 'official' update is released to fix these things, correct?
Sure, I might be out of line with this rant, but after spending two weeks trying to play a game on the last beta, just to realize there were problems that beta 4 supposedly addressed and chucking that game for the latest and greatest and again to pretty much end up 'screwed', yeah, I would say that I am a little upset.
Reply #105 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Fair enough. I'll just say it again: programming is very tricky. "Easier said than done" applies more to programming than almost anything else.
Reply #106 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Ok, I sent an email with my savegame about the Governor screen freeze.

I tested with a new game, and I had no freeze. (I just chose the Custom race without any ability, and guess what : I start next to a class 26, with a 300% food, 2 100% approval and a 100% manu bonuses. Arg)
Reply #108 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

I'm going to edit my original post too, but could those of you having issues with memory, slowdown or graphical glitches please try this build and let us know if it helps?

OMG I love you, tempted to leave work early just to try it out!!!    

Reply #109 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

I'm going to edit my original post too, but could those of you having issues with memory, slowdown or graphical glitches please try this build and let us know if it helps?


http://sd.stardock.com/carielf/da_1_6_b5_test1.zip







Will do, trying now. Here's my debug.err for DA 1.60 beta 4 though until then, I'm in the graphical mesh corruption camp here :/




Debug Message: Version v1.6 beta 4 Dark Avatar last updated on: Thu May 17 16:44:56 2007
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/21/2007, 22:05:10
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: GEOFF
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.061219-0316)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: NVIDIA
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP 3000+, MMX, 3DNow, ~2.2GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 406MB used, 2056MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GS
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 7800 GS
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_00F5&SUBSYS_080110B0&REV_A2
Display Memory: 512.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.9371
Driver Date: 10/22/2006 13:22:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Sound Blaster Audigy
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0007&SUBSYS_100A1102&REV_00
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: P17.sys
Provider: CREATIVE
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0608
Driver Date: 3/17/2006 17:10:00
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1280 x 1024
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GS
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 75
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: No files found matching mask Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Gfx\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Event Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Updating window with ID=0
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Unhiding FullscreenBink
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing ship styles:
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\shiptemplates\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ShipStyles\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/\FleetFormations\*.fleet
Debug Message: No files found matching mask Gfx\Planets\C0*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/English/Tutorials/*.xml
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Updating window with ID=1
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenaro_MoreDetails_FText
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenaro_Details_FormattedText
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/English/Scenarios/*.GC2Scenario
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Title
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Disctiption_Spinner_Back
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Disctiption_Title
*DEBUG ERROR: ***CustomShipStyleWnd: Unknown edit field ShipList_List_Entry type: CustomListEntry ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***CustomShipStyleWnd: Unknown edit field ShipList_Avalible_List_Entry type: CustomListEntry ***
Debug Message: WARNING: GetShipStylePrefix called for civ and civ has no ship style
Debug Message: LoadHardpointsFromPrefsFile failed to load ship config file: ./Data/ShipCfg/\(null)_ColonyShip.shipcfg
Debug Message: Creating Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid fields.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid field mining bases.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Star Frequency: 4 Max Num Stars: 223
Debug Message: Planet Frequency: 4 Max Num Planets: 892
Debug Message: Galaxy Size Set: 12 x 12
Debug Message: Creating Random Map
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Stars
Debug Message: Star Density: Loose clusters.
Debug Message: Number of Unplaced Stars: 8.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Total planets placed: 65
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 300
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: TitleWnd: Quit Button.
Debug Message: Posting WM_CLOSE message.
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing hidden planet surface init thread. Waiting for it to die.

Debug Message: Aborting hidden planet surface initialization.
Debug Message: Hidden planet surface init thread dead.
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid fields.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid field mining bases.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing ship styles:
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy: Completed
Debug Message: Shutting down sound system.
Debug Message: Clearing sound and music handles.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 83 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally

Reply #110 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
OK the bug has not changed in the slightest between b4 and b5. I see it in the game start where you choice your ship design, in the main map and in the ship designers. Random polys protruding wildly from ship meshes. Heres the debug.err for B5 now.


Debug Message: Version v1.6 beta 5 Dark Avatar test 1 last updated on: Mon May 21 14:40:22 2007
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/21/2007, 22:12:39
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: GEOFF
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.061219-0316)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: NVIDIA
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP 3000+, MMX, 3DNow, ~2.2GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 418MB used, 2044MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GS
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 7800 GS
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_00F5&SUBSYS_080110B0&REV_A2
Display Memory: 512.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.9371
Driver Date: 10/22/2006 13:22:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Sound Blaster Audigy
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0007&SUBSYS_100A1102&REV_00
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: P17.sys
Provider: CREATIVE
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0608
Driver Date: 3/17/2006 17:10:00
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1280 x 1024
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GS
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 75
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: No files found matching mask Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Gfx\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\Event Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Updating window with ID=0
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Unhiding FullscreenBink
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing ship styles:
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\shiptemplates\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ShipStyles\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/\FleetFormations\*.fleet
Debug Message: No files found matching mask Gfx\Planets\C0*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideN*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideE*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideS*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideW*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\Home\My Games\GC2DarkAvatar\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/English/Tutorials/*.xml
Debug Message: Popup Manager Update: Updating window with ID=1
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenaro_MoreDetails_FText
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenaro_Details_FormattedText
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask ./Data/English/Scenarios/*.GC2Scenario
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Title
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Disctiption_Spinner_Back
Debug Message: CustomPersonalityWnd: Cannot find OBJID Personality_Special_Disctiption_Title
*DEBUG ERROR: ***CustomShipStyleWnd: Unknown edit field ShipList_List_Entry type: CustomListEntry ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***CustomShipStyleWnd: Unknown edit field ShipList_Avalible_List_Entry type: CustomListEntry ***
Debug Message: WARNING: GetShipStylePrefix called for civ and civ has no ship style
Debug Message: LoadHardpointsFromPrefsFile failed to load ship config file: ./Data/ShipCfg/\(null)_ColonyShip.shipcfg
Debug Message: Creating Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid fields.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid field mining bases.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Star Frequency: 4 Max Num Stars: 223
Debug Message: Planet Frequency: 4 Max Num Planets: 892
Debug Message: Galaxy Size Set: 12 x 12
Debug Message: Creating Random Map
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Stars
Debug Message: Star Density: Loose clusters.
Debug Message: Number of Unplaced Stars: 43.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Total planets placed: 65
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 300
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: TitleWnd: Quit Button.
Debug Message: Posting WM_CLOSE message.
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing hidden planet surface init thread. Waiting for it to die.

Debug Message: Aborting hidden planet surface initialization.
Debug Message: Hidden planet surface init thread dead.
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid fields.
Debug Message: Killing asteroid field mining bases.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing ship styles:
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy: Completed
Debug Message: Shutting
Reply #111 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
A note to Evil Stormbringer and all others fed up with beta 4: There is a lesson which I had to learn the hard way in a much earlier beta version (DL 1.2 I think):

Always use auto-archive when trying out beta versions.
Version X+1 might actually be worse (for you) than version X.

(Addendum: Don't expect beta versions to work with the Metaverse.)

P.S. I'm not saying I don't see your point, but life is neither perfect nor fair.
Reply #112 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

I'm going to edit my original post too, but could those of you having issues with memory, slowdown or graphical glitches please try this build and let us know if it helps?


Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to have improved performance for me at all. Still getting single-digit framerates whenever there are ships on-screen.
Reply #113 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

If you haven't already, please try starting a new game when using the new build.  If you load an existing game, you may not get the performance improvements in the new build.

When you say it is slow whenever ships are on screen, does this include the game setup screens as well?

Reply #114 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I'm going to edit my original post too, but could those of you having issues with memory, slowdown or graphical glitches please try this build and let us know if it helps?

http://sd.stardock.com/carielf/da_1_6_b5_test1.zip


I tried with my existing game, and I still got the Governor screen freeze and the slowdown with large ship present.


If you haven't already, please try starting a new game when using the new build. If you load an existing game, you may not get the performance improvements in the new build.

When you say it is slow whenever ships are on screen, does this include the game setup screens as well?


Hum, my current game was started with the beta 4. But when I tried to start a new game to test my problems, I got neither.

Reply #115 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I didn't have performance issues, just the graphics problem and it's still present with the new one Cari just put up.

Example:

Free Image Hosting at www.ImageShack.us
Reply #116 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I also experience the same graphical glitches with the Beta 5 test build. Is it a good idea to send in a new debug file at this time?

Also, I caught a minor typo in the new Milky Way galaxy map. One of the stars is named Epsiolon Eridani. I do like the layout though and the start settings (just 1 billion population and no freebie colony ship).
Reply #117 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

If you haven't already, please try starting a new game when using the new build.  If you load an existing game, you may not get the performance improvements in the new build.


When you say it is slow whenever ships are on screen, does this include the game setup screens as well?




Heh seems like common sense in hindsight but after repeated crashes and massive slowdowns I started a new game and of course it runs fast as ever.
Reply #118 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

Stormbringer: Okay, you have crossed the line into being unacceptably disruptive.

This is your last warning. The next one will result in us refunding you and being banned from the site. 

We are trying to elicit constructive feedback but you seem to go from thread to thread being a disruptive force.  As others have pointed out, no one forced you to install betas. The shipping game worked fine. 

One more disruptive post and you're done. Do I make myself clear? Never kid yourself into thinking that because you bought a product or service that it somehow gives you the right to be disruptive to others or us.

Reply #119 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

It looks like we'll have to make the new graphics engine an option as it's going to be unlikely that we'll be able to figure out precisely why some people are having graphical glitches with it.

So users will ahve the choice between the new engine and the existing engine. 

Reply #120 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Well all I can say is I've noticed the problem from the get-go: DL works fine (no corruption) and DA beta 4/5 displays graphical corruption, whether its a new game or not (obviously having only just got the game I had no savegames to load). Hope my debug files have helped though!
Reply #121 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Sure, I might be out of line with this rant, but after spending two weeks trying to play a game on the last beta, just to realize there were problems that beta 4 supposedly addressed and chucking that game for the latest and greatest and again to pretty much end up 'screwed', yeah, I would say that I am a little upset.


Beta testing is one sure way to get the level of feedback necessary to address these issues, especially ones which can't be reproduced in-house. When I play a game with a beta build, I try to avoid playing the game in exactly the same way as a final build, because I know that I can't get too invested in a game that I might have to scrub. Specifically, I only play for the amount of time required for testing, report on it, and then do something else.

I too would like to see a finished product free of flaws, but it's inevitable that the process of getting there is going to take time and effort. When radical positive changes are wrought, expect a few negative side-effects in proportion

Edit: Just so you know, I tried switching to AGP 4X instead of 8X. Doesn't have any effect on the graphical issue.
Reply #122 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Used stardoc and updated to the new beta so I could see if it allowed me to play my saved game that was causing me game to crash after a few turns. (damn memory problems had ruined the game for me)

I was very surprised to see that I was in fact able to play without a crash and after about an hour of playing saved and ended my game for the night very happy.

I have not tried to re-create any of the graphical errors reported yet, but I will be getting around to seeing if It will happen on my own system.

Over all if any major game breaking bugs can be fixed, (aka the game crash problem) I can once again start nagging my friends to get a copy of the game.

Brother Angelon
Reply #123 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

It looks like we'll have to make the new graphics engine an option as it's going to be unlikely that we'll be able to figure out precisely why some people are having graphical glitches with it.


So users will ahve the choice between the new engine and the existing engine.



Eh, I guess I'll just play when I can afford to upgrade my PC then. Thanks for working on it, though.
Reply #124 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I have not tried to re-create any of the graphical errors reported yet


If you had the problem you would notice it the first time you put an engine on a ship or used a template, so it sounds like your safe from that one   

The pic I put above is the starting ships for the drath at the begining of the game, so as you can see, you would probably notice it right off the bat.
Reply #125 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I tried to do a little research on the web to see if similar errors have been come up in other games, but not knowing very much about Direct3D some of the things I was reading went completely over my head. Also, the lack of supporting images made it difficult to make a guess about actual relevance.