New Tdn Faq Need Help
by Michael Perry · in Torque Developer Network · 03/16/2007 (7:15 am) · 12 replies
Hello all.
As stated in a couple previous threads, I'm compiling an updated set of FAQs about the various Torque Engines, and some of the add-on products available for them.
This will provide a link for for newcomers to read before posting in forums or purchasing a product, and veteran posters can provide the link instead of regurgitating the same answer and getting frustrated that newcomers aren't reading existing threads with the answer.
A common complaint already brought up, is that people without a license cannot access the TDN. While I'm working on that issue, I noticed something in this link: How to use an article title
The article claims there is a public section of the TDN that covers all Torque references, which would be very useful for everyone. I can't seem to locate that section, so if anyone knows where this TDN section is or if it even exists, please let me know.
You can also use this thread to post FAQs you'd like to see answered. Please be constructive: all "n00b" bashing remarks will be ignored, and all answers to the questions posted will most likely be ignored as well.
Here's an abbreviated list of what I have thus far:
Lighting:
TDN Lighting Page
TLK Lighting Forum
As stated in a couple previous threads, I'm compiling an updated set of FAQs about the various Torque Engines, and some of the add-on products available for them.
This will provide a link for for newcomers to read before posting in forums or purchasing a product, and veteran posters can provide the link instead of regurgitating the same answer and getting frustrated that newcomers aren't reading existing threads with the answer.
A common complaint already brought up, is that people without a license cannot access the TDN. While I'm working on that issue, I noticed something in this link: How to use an article title
The article claims there is a public section of the TDN that covers all Torque references, which would be very useful for everyone. I can't seem to locate that section, so if anyone knows where this TDN section is or if it even exists, please let me know.
You can also use this thread to post FAQs you'd like to see answered. Please be constructive: all "n00b" bashing remarks will be ignored, and all answers to the questions posted will most likely be ignored as well.
Here's an abbreviated list of what I have thus far:
- Where is the official Garage Games FAQ[li]What are the differences between the license options for each engine[li]What are the differences between TGE/TGB/TGEA/TorqueX[li]Can Torque make an MMO[li]What games can Torque engines be used to make[li]Where can I find [insert game concept/code here][li]Which engine is best for my game
Lighting:
TDN Lighting Page
TLK Lighting Forum
- Spot Light[li]Zone Lighting[li]Self Shadowing
About the author
Programmer.
#2
OK, the very start of the FAQ is up. I just wanted to get the formatting down, and I'll start adding content when I'm not at work. Let me know what you think of the format
Getting Started: FAQ
03/16/2007 (8:43 am)
@Scott - ThanksOK, the very start of the FAQ is up. I just wanted to get the formatting down, and I'll start adding content when I'm not at work. Let me know what you think of the format
Getting Started: FAQ
#3
I like your idea. And I really think this is needed for new people.
One of the topics I find myself answering about is DIF/DTS.
The differences between them, and when and how to use them.
So what about a DIF FAQ and DTS FAQ being added?
03/16/2007 (9:39 am)
Michael,I like your idea. And I really think this is needed for new people.
One of the topics I find myself answering about is DIF/DTS.
The differences between them, and when and how to use them.
So what about a DIF FAQ and DTS FAQ being added?
#4
03/16/2007 (9:42 am)
You got it Surge, it's on my TODO list now...keep 'em coming people. 
#5
03/16/2007 (11:45 am)
TDN is currently still in beta, and you must have a license to access any content. The plan is once it's out of beta (no timeline), sections that aren't restricted can be accessed by anyone. 
#6
I would try to restrict the FAQ to being more general questions that are asked frequently, I don't recall in the past 8 months ever seeing a forum post or question posed asking the price of the engine ... so having it in the FAQ is fairly, erm ... inaccurate --
Perhaps a nice surf through the forums, find similar threads or interesting threads, and post a summarized version of the starting thread question and an summarized version of the response --
Just my two cents ... :)
03/16/2007 (11:49 am)
One might be careful about putting things like the price of the products in the Wiki -- if GG ever decides to increase/decrease the price of the product, the Wiki will then be 'out dated' and could cause potential problems -- I also don't think it's necessary for the price of the products to be in the Wiki since the GG website clearly identifies the cost of each product (its not like you have to 'add to cart' to figure it out or anything)I would try to restrict the FAQ to being more general questions that are asked frequently, I don't recall in the past 8 months ever seeing a forum post or question posed asking the price of the engine ... so having it in the FAQ is fairly, erm ... inaccurate --
Perhaps a nice surf through the forums, find similar threads or interesting threads, and post a summarized version of the starting thread question and an summarized version of the response --
Just my two cents ... :)
#7
03/16/2007 (11:50 am)
Oh, I do think that things like 'what are the differences between' and 'can [Engine] do [this]' are appropriate -- I just don't think the prices should be listed in the FAQ --
#8
While there may not be FAQ about the pricing going on in the forums, should I repost the FAQ outside of the TDN or TDN goes public, non-licensed holders can see the entire pricing list and licensing stuff on one page and not have to click around multiple product pages.
That brings me to my next question, since some employees have shown they are looking here. If we want this article to be available to the public, should I turn it into a resource, or is there a better place to do this?
*EDIT* - GG also clearly has a FAQ, clearly details licensing differences, and clearly states you get the source with most Torque engines (further illuminating that you can make any time of game with it) yet you still see these threads pop up:
Can Torque make an MMO?
Difference between indie and commercial?
Do all my programmers need a license?
Some of the questions I pose and answer in this article may appear to be beating a dead horse, but let's face it, people just don't take the time to read what GG has already posted.
It's like waiting in line at Chic-Fil-A behind someone who can't decide on what to get: "HEY JACKASS! Your choices are chicken or chicken!" McDonald's has been open for god knows how long with the same menu, yet people still don't know what they want when the reach the counter.
It bleeds over to this domain too..IMO, GG has posted everything I'm probably going to post. I'm just consolidating and updating in this project.
03/16/2007 (11:56 am)
I used the pricing stuff to set up a format, and learn how to use the Wiki tags and formatting. This is my first TDN article. I'll probably leave them in anyway, and if GG changes a price, I'll update it. If I don't, I'll take 3 paintball shots to the chest from 3 feet distance and upload the video for all to view.While there may not be FAQ about the pricing going on in the forums, should I repost the FAQ outside of the TDN or TDN goes public, non-licensed holders can see the entire pricing list and licensing stuff on one page and not have to click around multiple product pages.
That brings me to my next question, since some employees have shown they are looking here. If we want this article to be available to the public, should I turn it into a resource, or is there a better place to do this?
*EDIT* - GG also clearly has a FAQ, clearly details licensing differences, and clearly states you get the source with most Torque engines (further illuminating that you can make any time of game with it) yet you still see these threads pop up:
Can Torque make an MMO?
Difference between indie and commercial?
Do all my programmers need a license?
Some of the questions I pose and answer in this article may appear to be beating a dead horse, but let's face it, people just don't take the time to read what GG has already posted.
It's like waiting in line at Chic-Fil-A behind someone who can't decide on what to get: "HEY JACKASS! Your choices are chicken or chicken!" McDonald's has been open for god knows how long with the same menu, yet people still don't know what they want when the reach the counter.
It bleeds over to this domain too..IMO, GG has posted everything I'm probably going to post. I'm just consolidating and updating in this project.
#9
Even though it seems obvious, people are still asking what kind of game they can make.
Not only Game Types, RTS,FPS,MMO....e.t.c
Others Ive seen go like this :
Can torque make games like the Far Cry (CryEngine)?
Can torque make games like Unreal tournament?
Can torque make a ...?
How many players can connect at once?
Where do I start once I purchase?
Questions on Physics?
Just adding some others there if they catch your interest.
03/16/2007 (2:54 pm)
I have to agree with you.Even though it seems obvious, people are still asking what kind of game they can make.
Not only Game Types, RTS,FPS,MMO....e.t.c
Others Ive seen go like this :
Can torque make games like the Far Cry (CryEngine)?
Can torque make games like Unreal tournament?
Can torque make a ...?
How many players can connect at once?
Where do I start once I purchase?
Questions on Physics?
Just adding some others there if they catch your interest.
#10
Status:
So, as I get closer to a more finalized list, I'll be creating a resource here on GG so non-SDK owners have access as well.
03/27/2007 (10:48 am)
I've updated the FAQ. I think I've written all I need for Section 1 since it is so basic. If there is something missing from Section 1 that you think should be in there, let me know here or in an email...or heck, modify it yourself =).Status:
- Section 1 complete (I hope)[li]Section 2 posted, not complete[li]Sections 3-5 posted, but not started
So, as I get closer to a more finalized list, I'll be creating a resource here on GG so non-SDK owners have access as well.
#12
04/23/2008 (6:26 am)
Still working, when I have the time. Project not dead. Shameless plug about new post: EAs hostile takeover of T2 
Associate Scott Burns
GG Alumni
Another good one would be a listing of supported compilers if there isn't one already.