Proposed . . . TotH Scenario Design Contest

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Proposed . . . TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/2/2018 3:18:27 PM

DoubleDeuce

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We should do one of these!

Set some general criteria that each submission must conform to, such as the following;

1. A custom created map that has to be used for all scenarios that cannot be altered.
2. Can be based on any battle that could be modeled with current 'Base TotH game' BUT must use an accurate OOB (no King Tigers in 1941, etc).
3. Inclusion of a vehicle that is almost never used/seen on existing scenarios.
4. Designed to be played from one side only to help with ease of scenario balancing and Fog of War.

Thoughts???

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/8/2018 11:48:21 PM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/2/2018 3:23:53 PM

UP844

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I like the idea!

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/2/2018 4:21:46 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Just a note, basing the scenario around a specific vehicle will definitely limit the time frame criteria so that would be something to consider in the design limits.

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/2/2018 4:45:01 PM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/3/2018 12:41:28 AM

Hailstone

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I'm not a submitter, just another supporter, but I would like to say that DoubleDeuce's criteria number 3 is my favorite. The inclusion of rare or unusual weaponry now and then could be a real treat and even make the scenario more memorable.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/3/2018 4:53:31 AM

DoubleDeuce

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For the map, I think it should be kept small, maybe a full screen for most users so like 16x20 hexes. That should accommodate a scenario of up to company size with little, to no need for players to have to scroll around?

For the 'rarely used vehicle', probably a German one so that designers can choose from different fronts and more enemies (the American, British or Russians).

Any recommendations for the 'vehicle'??

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/3/2018 5:05:23 AM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 11:42:24 AM

DoubleDeuce

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Doesn't appear to be a whole lot of interest so far.

It has given me some ideas for custom scenarios though.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 11:57:44 AM

UP844

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quote:

ORIGINAL: DoubleDeuce

Doesn't appear to be a whole lot of interest so far.

I would have been surprised had the opposite occurred

. Active action is a very rare occurrence

.

I agree on keeping the map and scenario small, but as regards to selecting some rare German AFV, I think it would be better to make it an optional requirement: their limited numbers greatly reduces the possible locations for a scenario (e.g. Elefants can only be used in Russia, 43-44 and in Italy in early-mid '44; Jagdtigers, for all their fame, saw only limited action on the Western Front, and so on...)

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 1:12:03 PM

DoubleDeuce

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quote:

ORIGINAL: UP844

I agree on keeping the map and scenario small, but as regards to selecting some rare German AFV, I think it would be better to make it an optional requirement: their limited numbers greatly reduces the possible locations for a scenario (e.g. Elefants can only be used in Russia, 43-44 and in Italy in early-mid '44; Jagdtigers, for all their fame, saw only limited action on the Western Front, and so on...)

Yeah, was just throwing that out there for some set criteria to go off of.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 1:29:26 PM

Big Ivan

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As one of the scenario designers I'm liking this idea a lot!

I agree we need to keep it simple and above all small to maybe, maybe medium. Reason I say that is because
of the reported speed issues with some computer rigs. Someday that will be fixed but for now we should keep it small.

As for the rarity of vehicles I personally have an open mind on the idea. I tend to like actions in Russia more
but when it comes down to it any theater will do.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 1:35:07 PM

rico21

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I suggest that instead of doing scenarios, we were talking about doing them.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 2:10:09 PM

fuselex

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i would like to think the interest may be there DD ,
The idea is pretty good
it would be great to experience different designers take on the same map .
The `designed to be played from one side only` is a nice touch , i imagine it is hard enough to create a great scenario ,
without trying to balance it .
Maybe a set map with set units that the designer can deploy as he fancies?
Of course keeping the units in the historical time frame should be compulsory :)
Active action is a very rare occurrence :)
I see where you are coming from UP844 ,
But i imagine most people are players like myself , a bit vague on the rules , but enjoy the experience .
I may be completely wrong on this , but to create a nice scenario requires a lot of knowledge of the game.
Way out of my league ,
I could place a AT gun in a hex , but would not really know what the odds are of it taking out that Russian goliath of a
tank :)
This may be one of the reasons why there is only a handful of scenario creators.
It requires knowledge and feel to produce an enjoyable scenario.
I , like many , i imagine , enjoy and appreciate those who do the dirty work ,
This is one of the reasons i will applaud and enjoy every scenario ,

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 2:32:30 PM

rico21

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quote:

ORIGINAL: fuselex

to create a nice scenario requires a lot of knowledge of the game.

It is necessary to understand AI to anticipate the blows and to be able to place well its parts.

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TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/4/2018 8:33:33 PM

DoubleDeuce

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The 'rare' vehicle need not be a well known, obvious choice. For rarity in this case, I am thinking more towards a vehicle that has not been used before or has only been used a few times in existing scenarios.

For example, a pair of SPW 250/7 (doesn't need to be this just throwing that out there). Each designer would have to build a scenario that includes 2 of the above German vehicle (available from 9/41-45). It can be as big or as small as the designer wants but all must use the same map. Using the Germans as the player force allows for anything European theater.

Being a small map and scenario, designers can replay it multiple times for playtesting to work out any issues or imbalances. For anyone interested that is reading this thread and thinking 'I could never do this', your submission does not need to be perfectly balanced, just aim for something playable and fun.

NOTE: I have access to date of availability information on all vehicles and guns in TotH so anyone needing guidance on that would be free to shoot me a PM if they need clarification on something.

I will work up more details, based on any input you guys have posted already and we can go from there.

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/4/2018 8:38:27 PM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/5/2018 4:59:39 AM

DoubleDeuce

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Currently putting together a map. It will be about 20x16 where it fits nicely in a single screen so most players will not need to scroll around. I will try an mix up the terrain so that it provides some variation and enough room for some maneuvering, with cover.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/6/2018 7:35:32 AM

DoubleDeuce

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OK, while working up the criteria, I had a scenario of my own come to mind using 'a pair of SPW 250/7' in my example soooo, that will be one of the requirements of the design contest once I have all the other details fleshed out.

In addition, if we have enough interest to go ahead with this, I am prepared to offer up a prize for the winner. This would NOT be a TotH or Matrix officially sponsored contest or prize, it would be something organized, judged and offered by me with the prize cost coming out of my own pocket.

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/6/2018 11:57:42 AM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/8/2018 5:57:48 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Still working on documenting the criteria/guidelines for the contest. I'm wanting to make sure all the requirement information is clear to anyone one interested in participating.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/8/2018 6:11:43 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Just throwing this out there, does everyone think a 1 month design window will be long enough or should I go with 2 months. That will be followed by a 1 month evaluation/judging window (I will need to read through an playtest each submission multiple times).

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/8/2018 7:13:21 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Here is the 'draft' map I am planning to use with the contest.

Attachment (1)

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/8/2018 7:59:08 PM

Peter Fisla

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Cool looking map DD!

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest - 8/8/2018 8:15:24 PM

DoubleDeuce

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Peter Fisla

Cool looking map DD!

Thanks. Hopefully it will allow enough maneuver space.

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TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/8/2018 8:28:56 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Before I officially set and publish the guidelines to open the contest I wanted to post the DRAFT criteria I have come up with so far for feedback, comments and questions.

2018 Tiger�s on the Hunt (TotH)
Scenario Design Contest

The following information will be used as the criteria, guidelines and requirements for ALL scenario�s submitted for the contest.

GENERAL CRITERIA:
� One Nationality must be set to �German�.
� The scenario must take place in the European Theater of Operations (includes the Mediterranean Theater outside of North Africa).
� The scenario can take place anytime from September 1941 - May 1945 (time that the Sd.Kfz. 250/7 was in active service).
� Scenario cannot exceed 8 Turns.
� Historical availability requirements will be in force meaning if you design for 1941, you cannot include Tiger II�s, etc., in your scenario and so on.
� German OOB must include 2x Sd.Kfz. 250/7 (Sch�tzenpanzerwagen (schwerer Granatwerfer)) vehicles or their equivalent (each can be substituted with a Sd.Kfz. 250/1 and dismounted 81mm mortar w/Crew).
http://www.tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/nazi_germany/Sdkfz-250.php
� Finished scenarios will not require the use of custom Mod�s (they must be designed to be played using the base �Tiger�s on the Hunt� game engine).
� The scenario should be designed specifically to be played from one side only (German, Russian, American or British). Do not worry about balancing �from both sides�. This is a solitaire game and I want to lessen the extra design work that balancing from both sides brings into the equation. Choose a �played only from �X� side� when working up your design and go from there.

CONTEST TIMELINE:
� Design Window: There will be a 2 month design period for participants to design, playtest and submit their final scenario for judging (starting August 10, 2018). This may be shorter IF all finished designs have submitted for judging before the 2 month time frame ends.
� Judging Window: There will be a 1 month window for the judging of submissions after the design window has closed after which, a winner will be announced.

CONTESTANT RESPONSIBILITIES:
� Contestants are limited to 1 scenario submission for the contest.
� Contestants must submit some background information used to inspire or guide their design (i.e. basic designer notes).

JUDGING:
� Double Deuce (on the Matrix Games Forums) will be the judge for this contest (with �possible� input from others who are not contestants).
� Primary Point of Contact is via PM on the Matrix Games Forums.
� Alternate/Email Point of Contact is doubledeuce@combat-campaigns.com.

SCENARIO RELEASE:
� Once the contest has ended, all submitted scenarios will be bundled together and put up for download.
� ALL scenarios will have their associated .txt briefing file modified to conform to a single, standard format/layout.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
� Other than the limitations and restrictions specifically outlined in this document, designers are free to set other parameters to create their design (hex visibility, victory conditions, and so on).

PRIZES:
� A prize (yet to be determined) will be awarded to the contest winner.
� This would NOT be a TotH or Matrix officially sponsored contest or prize, it would be something organized, judged and offered by me with the prize cost coming out of my own pocket.

THE MAP:
� A Custom 20x16 hex Map has been created and will be used for ALL design submissions. The base map terrain cannot be altered with the exception that you can add Trenches, Shell Holes, and/or make existing buildings �Fortified�.
� You may add text labels to the map as needed.
� You cannot add or remove existing Playable/Non-Playable hexes.
� A general screenshot of the required map will be found at the end of this document.

This post has been edited and now contains more accurate/updated information.

< Message edited by DoubleDeuce -- 8/9/2018 12:51:26 PM >

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/8/2018 9:23:59 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Added the part about a 'prize' to the criteria above.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/8/2018 10:38:30 PM

UP844

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Where do I sign to enlist?

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/8/2018 11:47:21 PM

DoubleDeuce

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I'll probably post a start date in a few days once I have fully edited my official guidelines. Wanting to make sure everything I can think of is covered and out to paper so everyone is on the same page.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/8/2018 11:48:55 PM

DoubleDeuce

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Once it goes 'live' I will start another thread.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/9/2018 7:33:58 AM

Paullus

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Good structured guidelines that keeps the design within a good frame with lots of opportunities. This is a great possobility for old an new designers.

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RE: TotH Scenario Design Contest DRAFT Guidelines - 8/9/2018 1:05:07 PM

DoubleDeuce

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I have update the 'Guidelines' in Post #: 21 of this thread. Barring any changes, this is likely the final version and I will post the 'Design Contest packet' (which will include the Map as a .scn file) sometime later today.

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