7.0.619 * Improved nomination halo - ** please choose 'Help','Refresh Graphics' in the menus to update it. ** * Fixes message positioning problems on continental machines (which made it impossible to select the cueball in some circumstances) * Game now ends on the pink if it becomes your turn and potting the black would not win the frame for you. * Page Up and Page Down keys now swing cue up and down (for laptops/mice with no mousewheel). * Nomination Halo is now an option in the aids menu. * Nomination Halo can be toggled with the 'H' Key on the keyboard. 7.0.616 * Fixed the probem with the blue blank screen and 'overflow in drawviews'Error (choose layout reset one last time if you're having this error). Thanks to Ryan for help reproducing this problem * Disabled nomination halo, when object ball paths are off. (NOBA) * NEW - super fine power and angle adjustment. Set up your shot as you usually would, then (before shooting), use cursor keys to adjust and enter key to shoot. * Waiting room player profiles now accessed via right click * 'OK' popup boxes (such as 'you must nominate a coulour') can now be cleared by press 'Esc' (escape) key * Now 'remembers' the positions of the pop up message boxes, so once you have positioned each type where *you* like it, they will always be presented there (in that layout). * Camera moves are now disabled whilst swinging the cue. * Fixed the spin-drift problem, where, as you moved the cue any spin already applied gradually 'wore off' and the chalkspot drifted back towards the centre of the white. * Submits time per shot for (forthcoming) player stats * Sends client language selection to the server for analysis and support. * AI is now (potentially) much worse at it's first snooker escape attempt - and improves with second and susequent tries 7.0.615 * Fixes very rare duplicate player signature problem (johnboy, Jedef) * Less logging of error packets so the game doesn't get (so) jerky on difficult connections. * Object ball path option (on the 'aids' menu) now saves. * On-Line play with - NOBA (No Object Ball Aids) (no guidelines) now tested and working * If you challenge with your guides off:- * Your opponent will see a different colour challenge screen * Both players guides are locked off for the duration of the game 7.0.613 * Fixes a warning/error message about 'makeimposters'. * Radically improves the speed of loading the player grid in on-line play. * Allows you to sort the player grid ascending/descending by any column - Thanks PB. 7.0.611 * Fixes a bug where you could withraw a challenge and then play as both the computer and human. * Fixes a problem with snookering yourself after potting a free ball * New player profile Pop-ups (click a player in the grid) with player pictures and private notes * Release from locked in 'for points' games. * Fixed some problems in restoring 'for points' games. 7.0.610 * Handles low graphics memory (such as laptops driving large external screens) more gracefully * Fixes some instability on the splash screen in Windows XP * Includes automatic unlock after purchase (no key entry required) * Referral code processing * Tidied up window resizing (a bit) * fixes for re-instating saved (for points) games 7.0.607 * Removed randomization of power on low power shots. * Fixes for players 'locked in' to 'for points' games against the PC. * Automatic camera pan to the colour 'on'. * Changed camera field of view for less distortion. * Changes to support referral codes. * Improved IP address tracking should help connections further. * Much faster view switching (1,2,3 keys). * Faster startup (on second and subsequent runs). * Fixes to 9 ball fouls and comnputer opponent. * Fixes corrupted (SQL server format) account expiry dates 7.0.600 * 9 ball re-instated * Rules for 9 ball updated on the web site * Snappier potting * Some problems with withdrawing challenges/cancelling challenges and player status fixed. 7.0.587 * Fixed an issue where, after a connection failure a trailing player could report a win. * Changed datagram queue lengths to cope better with poor network conditions. * Removed surplus poor connection messages. * The program should now cope with extremely poor connections There may be significant periods when your are not connected at all - shots will be queued. If you or your opponent has lost a connection you may see a significant number of shots player in very quick succession. We seem to have ongoing issues with some customers on Virgin Broadband.. This is being investigated by our hosting providers network engineer. 7.0.585 * Improved positioning of % power indicator (Especially in 2d view). * Fixed problems with being challenged on-line whilst playing the computer. * 'Using rest' and very low power shots are now subject to some variation in power (anti-tip-tap). * Adjusted shot timeouts. 7.0.583 * Allows you to finish your break after your opponent concedes. * Fixes the 'GameType 0' problem. 7.0.580 * Possible fix for rare mouse/cueball problems on some machines. * Stopped computer opponent from miscueing (potentialy repeatedly). * Room players list loads faster * Fixes a (rare) problem with 'array is fixed or temporarily locked' in the waiting room. * Fixes the blank message box at game end if you lose (should have results in). * Ranking is now correct in the window title bar (takes a few seconds to come in). * Improved AI thinking messages. * Added buttons to allow you to browse tips (formerly hints) on the splash screen. * Improved AI break and saftey play * Re-wrote tips 7.0.578 * Fixes problems with challenges issued at the table during on-line play (second games) * More information on win reports (points gained and lost for both parties) * Fixes 'Error 91's on startup If you pressed keys during the startup * Adds your current rank and score on the title bar * Various fixes for menu availablilty - to prevent duplicate challenges 7.0.571 * Fixes problems with points games against the computer * Fixes the final black of an on-line game being replayed and you being awarded an extra win. NB:- if you have had this problem you may need to play one more for points game to clear this issue. * Makes waiting room available during play against the PC * Completely new potting engine - for a smarter, more realistic computer opponents. * Improved win reporting * Fixed problems with the first shot timeout (grant more time) popping up too soon - thanks Les. * Centres spin on the cueball(was especially annooying if you played in 2D) Many thanks to Yisc for help with testing 7.0.563 * Fixes a problem with a colour becoming brown if potted out of sequence * Impliments the Snooker behind a free ball rule correctly * Improves win reporting * Improves live scoring 7.0.561 * New 'simulation speed' slider on the 'settings' screen. * New choice of game types at startup * Improvements to computer opponent * 'for points' games against the computer are stored and must be completed. See the 'news' section of the website for full details 7.0.549 * Prettier buttons and backgrounds. * Slightly more randomeness on the break to make a Snooker less likely. * Improved Unicode support for Maltese, Serbian, Thai etc. * Fixes problems with blocked players being able to nudge you. * Larger, Clearer Percent power indicator. * You can now post messages in the waiting room with 'Enter' now. * Both parties are warned if a game is a poor match. * Fixed stakes indicator on the scoreboard to work for on-line games. * Fixes for smileys under Windows 7 (sendkeys issues) 7.0.547 - Please Press yes to accept this update Windows 7/Vista Users should close and re-launch the program 'as administrator' (by right clicking the desktop icon and choosing 'Run as Administrator') - Before accepting the update. * German Language Support - Danke schön Lu & Daggi ! * Improved Splashscreen * Progress indicator for future downloads * Improved Fonts * Improved Score Panel * Improved My Details Screen * New 'pass break' feature on the 'game' menu 7.0.538 - Please Press yes to accept this update * Prettier message boxes * 'away' option available again in the waiting room * New 'Humans' are given a sensible number * Fails over to TCP/IP for win reports * More/dynamic retries for fail type J and G * Ticker will restart if connection is lost 7.0.537 * Improves win report reliability. * 20% faster frame rate when aiming. Appologies for the recent connection problems with the server. These appeared after a Windows Server "Critical Security Update" was installed which changed the behaviour of networking sockets. The update could not easily be rolled back so we had to find a work around. 7.0.535 * Increases UDP packet retry time to hopefully improve gameplay when network conditions are poor * less logging after an opponent has disconnected (to fix jerky play) * Seperates New Ticker and Win Reporting onto different sockets for improved reliability 7.0.532 * Fixes problems on very first startup after selecting language 7.0.531 * Fixes a problem on Vista Machines that would Give 'Path File Accss error' unless you 'run as administrator' 7.0.529 * Adds a language select screen * Adds Dutch Language - Many thanks to Yisc. * Removes any requirement for an Internet Connection to play. * Fixes a problem with layouts getting corrupted if you double clicked then 'play' button 7.0.520 * Fixes the error/warn window popping up on the classic table. Please restart the game again after this update to ensure your first win reports correctly. 7.0.519 * Gives the player the name 'human' on new installs (instead of blank) * Hides the Error/Warning window (you can activate it on the help menu) * Performs 'housekeeping' to delete old log files 7.0.518 * Fixes a problem with the colours 'dissapearing' after being respotted * Fixes problems with rings, spots, circles and 'nipples' appearing on the balls (same cause - different symptom) 7.0.517 * Fixes repeating smileys in chat * Minor formatting funnies 7.0.516 * Improved nudge function (you can hide the window again when nudged). * New voucher system on splash screen - details to follow. * Improved smileys (now have rollover text). * Improved potting.. fixes slight jerkiness when potting. * Computer opponent level displayed on scoreboard. * Points/Fun Buttons when challenging on-line. 7.0.512 - Please press 'yes' to accept this update ! * Fixes the very rare (but game spoiling) 'ball through table' problem * Improves tidying of the news ticker * changes wording on the on-line challenge box * Adds the count of players on-line to the top of the screen 7.0.509 * Fixes a problem with challenges in on line play * Made URL for the rankings clickable. * Tidied the opening screen and made the buttons read 'fun'/'points'. * Increased contrast on the green ball and its trail. * Right justified the news/events ticker (so most recent event is always visible). * Switched News/Events ticker to use a UDP socket and work even when not connected the the Waiting Room. * Changes to the waiting room/challenge screen - so it doesn't challenge the 'wrong' person if they leave whilst you are challenging them. * Changed the font for message boxes (to Arial MS Unicode - for forthcoming language suport). * Fixed the 'blue screen' (Cyan screen) when entering the waiting room (forced unicode encoding). * Fixed 'stuck balls' in the Classic/Purple room (changed pot detection z<0) and 'stop' detection (OnSurface). * Fixed a bug with nominating reds when on a free ball. * Fixed table sizing problems especially (but not limitied to ) the Purple room. * Added a count of *all* the players playing (including off-line) - to the rankings page. 7.0.506 * Easy level difficulty adjusted * You now *choose* whether games are for fun, or for ranking points. * If the computer opponent trails by more than 20 +points left on the table - he will no longer try for snookers (just pots) * New 'Using Rest' feature - shots what would require use of a rest have a dramatically shortened aim guide. * Aim lines shortened more with the use of spin * Challenges for fun now appear in green, challenges for points are in blue * Extra decline reasons added 7.0.497 - Please press 'yes' to accept this update ! * Major improvments to all levels of computer opponent. * Improved fiendish break * Improved normal/hard colour positional play * Improved fiendish escapes * Fiendish now plays colours more aggresively and is less likely to tip-tap the pack * much improved saftey play - all levels (wouldn't play fine cuts at close quarters before) * Fixed a problem where balls could be repspotted when moved in the frame after a concession. * Fixed problem with games against the computer being reported as games against a player you challenged - but withdrew (or were declined). * Increased the size of the ball antialiasing vertex buffer - which *may* be the cause of an 'object error' on very high resolutuon screens. * Abbreviated some of the gameplay commands to reduce server traffic and bandwidth and improve connections for mobile broadband customers. * Disabled play button whilst updates are in progress on unregistered version. * Displays error message and advice if an update fails due to insufficient permissions. (run as administrator) * Requests details where name is blank * Computer opponent puts you back in if you foul/miss * limited AI flooks/doubles/plants to 'reasonable' ones only. * fixed problem where - Conceding the against AI counted for ranks if you're leading. * fixed some issues with the action replay (whilst playing the computer) * fixed bug - win could be reported multiple times by using action replay to replay the final pot * Reinstated camera panning on right mouse button (hold down right mouse and move) * Difficulty levels locked whilst game in progress 7.0.482 * Improved 'Easy' and 'Normal' computer opponents * Fixes spurious (unexpected response) messages on reporting wins. * PLEASE register for the more challenging, Normal, Hard and Fiendish Computer opponents 7.0.479 * Compatible with the new *Purple* room - 'Classic' Quicksnooker in the new version. * Fixes some problems with win reporting and saving details 7.0.478 * Fixes win reporting with games against the computer * Speeds the table up again slightly 7.0.477 * Anti-tip-tap (shots played at very low percentages have random power error of a few %) * New Pick,Spin,Aim,Adjust spin, shoot - states - allows you to set spin Before you aim. * Spin bug (against cushions etc) fixed * Smoother Aiming (small mouse moves are better detected) * Improved shadow graphic (minor glitch fixed) * Different cueing in the 2D view (direction is initially set to that in the 3d view) * Games against the AI reported/ranked * Unregistered (unknown) players are invited to enter details to receive ranking information (when they beat the computer) This creates an account for them - and puts them on our mailing list * Fix to Reportwin on concession bug * Minor changes to win reporting (rank stated) * Framework for translations (into all languages) of all menus, labels, buttons and messages in the game * Improved nomination - just wave the mouse over the ball now * Potting the white to escape a snooker, now results in a foul and a miss (not a foul, and being allowed to start from the D) * New classic table.. faster play, higher gravity, bigger balls - * Fixed problems with snooker behind a free ball (is now a foul, and a free ball to your opponent) * Reduced randomness of power on the break (not so much is needed to still stop 'killer' breaks) * More realistic spin model.. balls accumulate topspin (or lose backspin) whilst rolling down the table * Improved explanation of what you stand to win/lose when playing a player (click their name in the grid) * Able to 'flip' the cue in 2d aiming by moving it 'through' 0% power (and out the other side of the cueball) 7.0.464 * Splits UDP datagrams to less than 512 bytes * decreases message character count update frequency. 7.0.462 * Stops connection requiests being sent three times * fix for 'stuck' white (happened if you put your opponent back in after they pot the white - and have used the mousewheel) 7.0.460 * Reinstates 'keep alive' packets for customers on Mobile broadband 7.0.458 * Speeds up entry to the waiting room * Should solve the occasional 'blue screen'/Playing Status problem 7.0.457 * Added firewall probe characters. * added more logging * changed timing of challenge/connect sequence 7.0.456 * Improved connection to waiting room (note to self - by unloading the UDP socket each time) * Removed UDP keep alive charaters - which appear to be a Red Herring * Added time to connect and attempt count to the waiting room 'loading' screen. * switched gameserver address 7.0.451 * Reinstated UDP Keep-Alive characters to fix connection problems on some routers * fixed some score reporting issues * Added character counter so you can see when your opponent is typing * Increased some communications timeouts 7.0.445 * Should improve the situation with Fail type G/J's 7.0.444 * fixes an issue with clearing the table 7.0.443 * Fixes some (introduced) problems with score reporting. 7.0.442 * First version to impliment Unicode - for internationalization after this update you *should* be able to post messages and chat in any language (including Chinese, Arabic, Farsi, Thai, Hebrew etc.) * Fixes a bug with reporting wins after clearing the table (after a concession) 7.0.439 * Makes Snookering and potting of the break much less predictable.. for a more competetive and realistic opening. * Allows you to complete your high break and claim a win if your opponent quits (concedes on your turn). * NB: your oponent can concede - and continue to watch you play your break.. (or can leave) * Thanks to Yisc for help with the testing (and for nagging to get some of these things done) 7.0.431 * fixes some serious problems in pool - please accept this update. 7.0.430 * Fixes a rare problem with the balls being 'wedged' in the pockets causing a lock-up. 7.0.429 * IMPORTANT - you need this update before attempting to play others on-line. * Please see the 'help' page on Quicksnooker.com if you have trouble with AutoUpdate (half way down) * Reinstates a number of changes that had to be removed before our short break. * Middle pockets are easier (again) because gravity is processed more often. * Program is significantly faster using less processor. * Faster computer opponent. * Program now tolerates screen savers, machine standy and power saving and graphic/resolution changes whilst running. * New command line options /nothink and /noengrave for users with ATI cards experiencing problems with the latest drivers (9.6/9.7) * Problem with two player pool fixed. * New 'send last shot to support' featue on the help menu.. quickly send me shots that went wrong. 7.0.421 * IMPORTANT - you need this update before attempting to play others on-line. * Rolled back some of the changes regarding gravity and the midle pockets as they were causing lock-ups. * changes will be re-instated w/c 03/08 after more thorough testing 7.0.420 * Gravity processed at collisions (again) for easier middle pockets 7.0.418 * Fixes problems with floating balls and fouls. (middle pockets are tricky again for now) 7.0.417 * Places balls initially in contact with table to fix problems with fouls on reds. 7.0.415 * Fixes minor problems with the new physics engine where balls could drop through the table on the break. * Again - please only play people on the same version as you, as this update changes the game engine. 7.0.414 * Major update - Please accept this update before playing on line. * New camera control, less panning and swinging - for a more relaxed game. * Big re-work of the physics engine - to process gravity at every substep and collision * Makes Middle Pockets easier. * Pool and Snooker breaks now smoother. * Significantly faster for smoother play and less processor load. * MUCH faster computer opponent 7.0.406 * Fixes potential lockup if you enter the Pool room with Snooker selected. * fixes problem with AI's second shot playing pool 7.0.404 * Further Improvments to on-line Pool.. * Pool Room loads correctly when entering the waiting room - hopefully fixing mouse issues. * Score Panel is refreshed after first pot - so correct ball set is presented. * balls are no longer 'stopped' in pockets (decay velocity) - this caused very rare lock-ups. 7.0.403 * Fixes problem with moving the white after loading a table/potted white in pool * Fixes 'resolution' problem (filtering change) * Selects correct game type in menus after loading table * Should now report pool wins (untested) 7.0.402 * Added Retry mechanism to intial connection to reduce (eliminate ?) 'fail type J's. * Improved viewing angle when lifting cue butt - camera now 'lifts' more than the Butt. * Limited camera lift for high butt angles (for pool jump shots) * You can now nominate colours on the score panel in the 3D views * Nomination messages changed to refelct the above. * Fixed minor bug in concession - where it *said* 'you lose' when your opponent concded whilst leading 7.0.401 * Fixes Bug with freeball on pool when a new game is started * Stops play from continuing once the game is over (pool & snooker) * Pool games results are now reported (If played in the pool room) 7.0.340 * fixes lockup problems against computer opponent.. (silly mistake) 7.0.398 * fixes problem with on-line multi-leg pool games 7.0.396 * Changes for if challenged during practise - Thanks Kane * Pool Changes - for jumping balls dissapearing - thanks Lu * Ball Trails - see the aids menu - Thanks Nick ;) * Pool Power changes, more power, more drag - for a faster game. * Improved action replay (unfinished - doesnt work against computer/on-line yet) * Cue tilt limiting * Pool Cue Angle display (see aids menu) * Larger, Clearer % Power indicator * % Power indicator now moves so it is never 'in the way' * Improved multiple sound handling for slightly better framerate especaially on the break * Improved initial aiming in 2d view * Room/Table files now contain information to set the camera correctly on the overhead views for different sized tables. * Improved score panel layout pool 7.0.391 * fixes occasional missing mouse cursor when breaking 7.0.390 * Significant change to game communications.. * To solve sync problems between machines where one is much faster than the other. * Opponent is reset for every new game 7.0.387 * Only the player 'up' reports live scores (to fix 'century break' annoncement being attributed to the wrong player) * Century+ breaks also announced at game end. * Improved Cue graphic * some state management fixes for stuck white problems * Added option to force use of smaller textures through /TQ1 command line option 7.0.385 * All messages/questions now stay 'on top' - to avoid the possibility of 'losing' one behind the main window * Some improvements to the end game - which may fix the occassional 'missing white' problem. * Miss question buttons made wider to accommodate long names. 7.0.384 *** PLEASE recommend QuickSnooker to your friends - we NEED more players ! *** * Miss Rule - now offers a 3 way choice, Reset balls, play yourself, or make you opponent play. * Free ball - now offers the offended player the option to put the offending player back in. * Playing a Snooker behind the free ball is now a foul. * Improved aim lines - lines now have a black core for better contrast and accuracy. * Improved nomination halo (yellow circle) * Nominate via the score panel - you can now click a ball on the score panel to nominate colours. * Score panel shows nomination. * Fixes score panel corruption when changing views * Added new player status of 'away' the waiting room . NOTE:- 'Away' players can be Nudged - 'busy' players can't. * You can no longer nudge a player who is blocking you. 7.0.376 * Reinstates the Colour Blind Mode (you may need to untick/tick Colour Blind on the 'Aids' menu to activate) * Generally improves contrast between green ball, table and brown ball. * Possible fix for on-line cues addressing the wrong ball (visually) * Increased timeout on fail type G 7.0.373 * Fixes swapped balk colours * Improves chat/fixes 'jump to' (with spacebar) problem * Fixes nominatiom with right mouse button problem. * Saves your last loaded table. 7.0.372 * Improved computer opponents positioning of the white - for more varied breaks * Fixed white positioning outside the D on the 'classic' table * Improved 'thinking' text added ....'s * Fixed a problem with the yellow and green being swapped on the new classic table * Improved autoupdate prompt 7.0.368 * Now defaults to Software Vertex processing which seems more consistent and runs better on more machines. * Further improvements to saftey play of computer opponent (especially fiendish) 7.0.366 * Fixes a problem with respotting the white in the D after addressing the cueball - Thanks Corby. 7.0.365 * 'Returns' the camera to the cueball when using right click - even if was never selected. - Thanks Yisc * Fixes sound bug on century breaks. * New less 'bouncy' classic table (balls jump much less) 7.0.363 * Fixes repeated unlocking problem for some registered users. * Many improvements to higher level computer opponents for a more realistic playing strategy. 7.0.360 * Includes the new 'classic' table - Big balls, Big pockets - the way a lot of customers seem to like it. * Choose 'File','Load Table' for the classic table - only available in regsistered version. 7.0.358 * Decreases mouse sensitivity (especially in 2d view) - for Linux/Wine and on customer feedback. * Fixes a problem with the auto-unlock for some version 7 customers * Saves the new player combo default - hopefully clearing the 'thanks eileen' message (after 1 run) * fixes issue with 'ball in hand' when selecting new game/table * locks window sizing functions when it's not your turn to reduce risk of timeouts - which also . . . * Fixes issue with grabing window edges and not being able to put them down again. * fixes issues with the view switching keys 7.0.355 * Fixes in game chat problem (where you were sometimes unable to type - and 'strange' messages appear) * Fixes 'Message for Computer' after a foul/miss (should not have been displayed) * Improves AI - he will now play thinner cuts * Improves AI (fiendish) - He will not take on a colour that would leave him snookered * Improves AI (fiendish/hard) - more accurate view of what balls are on after his shot. * Improves Waiting Room Chat.. new message, plus disappears when clicked - Thanks Yisc. * Moves game data storage/logs to the USERs folder - instead of all users.. meaning the program runs better under Vista non-admin accounts. 7.0.354 * Improves Live Scoring - more frequent updates, clears down better, no duplicates. * Retries Initial connection 3 times to 'fix' Fail Type 'G's (which may have been timeouts) * Command queue is now processed in 200 command blocks - which may fix rare 'ghost' problems. * Fixes "Small Table" problem (where the 2d view starts zoomed out) - and the table has a lot of floor showing around it * Reinstates waiting room Ticker (by popular demand - well, two demands anyway) * Reinstates an updated version of the object ball trajectories (guides) 'shortening' with break (but not so much) * Increases the shortening of the guides with spin 7.0.353 * Fixes Reportwin problems * Adds feedback to the nudge button - so you know who you nudged, when. * keeps challenge box topmost when you are challenged. 7.0.352 * fixes error 438 and 'subscript out of range' errors introduced in .351 7.0.351 * *** NEW - Aiming/Guides.. **** - THANKS YISC ! The object ball guide (trajectory) is now shorter the further the cue ball is from the object ball. Long shots are harder Also... the guide is further shortened by applying spin. Put your opponent up against the balk cushion and he may have no guides at all when shooting a red at the head of the table. Similarly - cueing over balls is now actually more 'difficult'. * Made cue 'withdraw' 3 times faster after shot. Should make miscues much less common (but still possible) * Doubled length of datagram que/reduced retry timeout to make 'ghosts' less likely. * improved logging for retried datagrams 7.0.350 * Improved Win reporting - Now retries/acknowleges three times.. and fails over to an email message 7.0.347 * Improved on-line play nudge feature, Use to attract the attention of players who aren't responding. * You can only send one nudge every 20 seconds * Nudge now plays sounds, pops up the screen over whatever else you may be doing. * Nudge now tells your who nudged you, when. 7.0.346 * Added Nudge feature - use considerately please.. yes, you can nudge yourself. * Made challenge sound significantly louder. 7.0.345 * Improved lives scores and win reports on some connections - added logging. * changed wording and fixes on changing 'hands' on second and subsequent frames. 7.0.340 * Better 'error' messages when autoupdating - instructs to 'run as administrator' * Fixes a problem where gametype could be cleared after an online game - leaving you with no reds. 7.0.339 * Fixes 'ghosts' in on-line play - which were caused after the challenged player potted a red, the challenger was (erroneously) allowed to cue. (due to the players menu not having been set) 7.0.338 * Made reds darker (at customer request) * Fixed occassional 'Error 91 at startup' (Moved chat background colouring) * Improved Connection stability/Recovery (changed UDP connect to use IP address not domain name) * Tidied In game chat text 7.0.337 * Fixes problem with respotting white after in off's 7.0.336 * Major update - required the full setup package to be run * IF you consistently see 'Couldn't retreive the update at this time the error was' - * please download the full setup package from http://www.quicksnooker.com and run it *twice* 7.0.335 * Rebuilt the program compiled to P-code for a much smaller download 7.0.328 * New build - as some customers reported downloaded problems. * Fixes player details visiblity problems 7.0.327 * Improves chat window - compose area is greyed until it is active (showing you clearly when you are typing) * Adds 'space bar' to jump straight to chat compose area. * Changes to in game chat text colouring to colour the whole paragraph in one click. * Fixes the oversized text on second and subsequent messages. * Cancels any shot taken with 0% power - allowing you to pick another spot on the cueball (or another ball) * Fixes a bug with allowed to reposition the white after a pot - Thanks Goodie. 7.0.326 * Fixes 'Error 53' on startup - appologies for the inconvenience.. a silly mistake. 7.0.325 * Fixes blank lines appearing in Internet Wating Room Player grid, no, really this time * Removes some saving of images that may have caused problems under Vista. 7.0.324 * Fixes blank lines appearing in Internet Wating Room Player grid * Completely new score panel, Improved the lighting on the balls, new background, 'engraved' text. * Shows correct registration status whilst performing autoupdate * removed redundant vector normalization from triangle.containspoint (to speed up computer opponent) 7.0.323 * Stats (rank,wins,losses and high break) are updated - to you and everyone else when you return to the WR after a game. * should eliminate double player names in the Internet waiting room. * Timeouts and retry count altered on the intial connection to the waiting room to reduce Fail Type F and J's. 7.0.321 NOTE:- ****** You may need to re-enter your details on the 'Internet play','My Details' screen after this update. ****** * Fixes the settings screen on continetal PC's (running with comma as a decimal point) * Remembers 'Town','comments','Prefered game' etc correctly. * Refreshes all players stats when re-entering the waiting room at game end. 7.0.320 * Fixes a serious problem where balls could be reset to some earlier position in the game, in long games (where the datagram queue looped) * Increased connection timeout when connecting to the game server - for less 'Fail Type 'G's' * Fixes a problem with where after a miss on any colour, a player who was put back in could shoot a red. To improve connection recovery/resiliance:- * Increased the time between retries on datagrams (to 3 seconds) * Increased the total number of retries to 50 * set the initial and severe connection warnings to 5 and 10 retries respectively 7.0.315 * Fixes a problem with the chat window being resized too small - giving empty screens on some layouts. Thanks Vijay * Adds version number to logs * Added error trapping to addview, loadviews etc. 7.0.314 * Fixes a problem making connections for on-line games 7.0.313 * Fixes a bug in withdrawing challenges 7.0.311 * Removes Test button from waiting room (it serves no purpose now) * Limits UDP retries to 5 - warns after 3 (you may see an excess of warning messages dont panic - needs tuning) 7.0.310 * Fixes surrounding connection tests - which in some scenarios left you connected - causing strange problems. 7.0.305 * IF YOU HAVE HAD TROUBLE GETTING IN THE WHITE ROOM PLEASE TRY AGAN * Fixes message display problems - some messages from the server were not being displayed (such as 'your email adddrss is blank') * Makes report of wins work on both IP address and Domain Name * Makes AI (computer opponent) now go for 'teetering' balls (which it used to overlook) - thanks Eileen. * Fixed Email address import (from old version) problem 7.0.300 * Fix for bug #103 ( Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games ) 7.0.299 * further separates the table data from the ball data to try to solve the balls not reappearing for the rematch. 7.0.297 * Fix for array is fixed or locked chen challenging somone playing the AI 7.0.294 * Nominating colours with keys 2-7 now require SHIFT key aswell (because otherwise you cant get views 2 or 3 anymore!) 7.0.292 * Removes some of the You Win/You Loose messages in various Early Quit/Game change scenarios * Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games (2nd attempt!) 7.0.290 * Fixes ball dropping through table (which was an edge detection problem) 7.0.289 * Fixes 'array is fixed or temporarily locked' error Bug #103 which . . * Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games * Fixes Miscue Crashing program - bug #107 * Extends 'too long' timeout message by 15 seconds every time *you* post (so that you can chat in game without the annoying pop-up) * Only allows you to claim a win if you have an unassailable lead - points on the table +8 (in the event of a technical problem - or a 'refusal' by your oppo) bug #105 - Yisc 7.0.285 * Further improvements to end game/ conceding, quitting before the game has begun. * Clear messages for when your opponent has left * fixes chalk/cueball out of sight when cueing with low power as steep angles (bug #78) * improved internal state management for player connections * fixed Tab going to smileys bug #95 (yisc) * fixes 'invalid argument in sendscores bug #96 (paris) * fixes transparent pool and hex table bugs 7.0.282 * Changes how you return to the waiting room after a game (pops the window back up and sends your status) * Fixes all issues relating to cueing over balls * Fixes (almost) all 'cue through table' issues (still the theoretical possibility of half a *side* of a cue in the cushion) * notifies you when your opponent leaves the room 7.0.281 * Allows nomination of the colours with keys 2-7 * Improves initial connections (by keeping the UDP socket alive) * Impliments Miscue * More information on connection tests (including wo is testing you) * other minor fixes 7.0.279 * Logging for balls falling through table * possible fix for live scores * fixed so games with insufficient points scored aren't recorded 7.0.276 * Removes most of the logging * Allows 'bailing' out of a game before the first shot is played * Gives 'Your opponent has left before the first shot was played' message (correctly) in case of above. * Concede option - continuously avalable - after the first shot is played (but conceding out of turn demands a reason) * Alternating breaks - when a new game is proposed 7.0.274 * Fixes as 'subscript out of range' error that occurred after a long run of shots 7.0.273 * Major switch back to a server based topology - Peer-to-Peer is too inconsistent, and no convincing mechanism exists to automatically configure routers. Many QS users lack the technical know-how to configure their routers correctly - So I am forced back to this arrangment. It's not all bad, this new version is UDP instead of TCP making it more efficient, and the server component has been seperated from the waiting room so it need not be 'taken down' to work on the room. 7.0.269 * Put back UpNP in a 'silent' mode * other changes to conenction testing * fixes bug in end game - so you can leave the room when the game is finished without conceding 7.0.260 * fixes big bug in conceding in on-line play * describes connection test failures as 'type A' or 'type B' (so you can tell me which easily) 7.0.259 * Interim build - Removes 'expired message' - Internet Play may be broken (or fixed - it's hard to tell) 7.0.255 * Added more debug logging to multiple contacts * fixed a problem with 'who's on-line' on the web ranks page * The 'internet waiting room' remains available in the menus until the first shot is played.. allowing you to 'bail out' 7.0.253 * Completed text colouring in chat - hover over the coloured buttons for help * Added smileys to in game chat * fixed another problem in getting connections 7.0.248 * Echoed challenge is fixed * Changed challenge to work by GUID instead of SM (fixes another bug in challenges) * Text colouring in chat * Removed blank line in chat * Added a message for when it is unable to configure the router (and Networking web page) 7.0.247 * Another attempt at fixing the echoed challenge (problem introduced in version .239 - it transpires) 7.0.246 * Hopefully fixes the 'echoed challenge' problem - where your opponent proposes a game in response t your challenge. 7.0.244 * Fixed left in stop statement (Potblack) * minor changes to connectivity test 7.0.239 * much improved nets * stopped several lockups/crashes when changing gametype during play against the computer * fixed balls 'jumping' near pockets * fixed balls going through table near pockets * remade hex table * added more errortrapping to 'aftershot' * fixed respotting of the pink (or any other colour for that matter - onto a red spot) * re-ordered ball drawing to improve closeup outline against windows/doors * fixed various crashes/lockups if attempting to resize windows whilst the computer plays * Fixed 'ears' on balls (stray extra pixels when zoomed in close) * fixed ridiculous computer break on hard, short snooker level (white banged into cue) 7.0.237 * Removed all stray stop statements (including the one in UDPSocket Error - which was probably frustrating Storm) 7.0.236 * Cue movements smoother in on-line play * Green ball trajectory contrasts with table * Improvements to the file, load table screen * Added new table 'SnookerHex' 7.0.235 * fixes cue visibility problems in on-line play (maybe?) * Fixes player names on panel in second and subsequent legs of a pool game 7.0.234 * Changes to connecting in on-line play. * fixed problem with spin off cushsions. 7.0.228 * Larger spots, better lines. * removed white edge where the cue collided (left in for degbug by accident) * Fixed cueing through balls (left disabled by accident) * Added 'Q' and 'E' keys to 'roll' (twist) the overhead/2D camera * Fixed several bugs with pool free ball handling * Added Free ball text to pool score panel * added 'legs' to the pool game - currently plays a 'best of 3' - needs testing 7.0.226 * Fixes some of the problems with onlne play/connections * Two computers behind the same firewall can now play eachother - which will help me work more quickly tomorrow * Changes to when the coin toss occurs (now after the challenge is successfully made) * possible fix for cue visiblilty problems. 7.0.225 * Much improved thumbnails (delete .bmp files in your tables folder to have them refreshed) * Correct white ball positon restricting for pool break (behind the balk line and ON the table) * Some problems with view '3' fixed * Problems with aspect ratio fixed * Major changes to the on-line play - now uses the same port both sides * Added 'advanced' option under Internet Play so you can set the UDP port (to allow you to play 2 computers behind the same NAT firewall) 7.0.224 * Puts snooker table 'right way up' in the 2D view * fixes minor problem with holes/smudges on pool balls 7.0.223 * Extra debugging/logging 7.0.222 * Fixes 'Subscript out of range' in 'cycle' * Creates pool ball images on disk for debugging * has known issue with the 2D snooker table being the 'wrong way up' - working on it * Use 'I'/'O' keys to get more of the table visible for now. 7.0.221 * Improvments to thumbnailer (small pictures on the file,load table screen) * Venue files now carry a default game type - which it switches to when that venue is loaded * overhead view automatically zooms to accommodate table (currently wrong on pool table) * 'D' is removed for pool games 7.0.220 * fixes problems with ball graphics - See .219 - please delete your tables.. 7.0.219 *IMPORTANT*\/\/\/\/\/\/ ***** RECOMMEND YOU DELETE THE CONTENTS OF YOUR C:\program files\quicksnooker beta7\tables folder NOW, before proceeding. ***** * Thumbnails the .scn files to give a choice of rooms under 'load table' * Includes 'Orangery4.scn' - which contains a purple 8Ft Pool table. * Uses a single texture for all pool balls for improved speed (and later, quality) * allows scene files to override materials (hence the purple baize) * removes all 'stop' statements. * moves lights into their own folder 7.0.218 * Extra line numbers in device initialization - no visible changes 7.0.217 * fixes stupid mistake in 7.0.216 - preventing startup 7.0.216 * Falls back to Software Vertex processing if the device initialisation fails (with HWVP) * May get it working on a number of 'problem' machines. 7.0.215 * Fixed/Limited spin - over use of spin was allowing crazy ball velocities. * Fixed returning to previous cueball (two right clicks). * Fixed - Sensible start position for cue for computer oppo. * Improved help messages for beginners. * Set default, defualt player combo to Human V computer (human breaks) * Forgot to mention .. Opponent shows his *planned* shot (not including his error) 7.0.214 * BIG speedup of computer oppo (now 'thinks' twice as fast) * Reworked aiming again - to fix cue tilt changing as you swung cue and give more natural 'swing' (angle based instead of linear) * fixed problems with wrong perentage power showing * Cue Soft shadows * Improved thumbnailer/room chooser * added a shrink function to saving - rooms are now 20% smaller file size * Big improvements to table marking to stop flicker and tearing * Dampened cushions slightly - increased drag slightly, lowered top speed slightly * allowed the computer to raise the cue butt higher to be able to hit balls (fixes lock-up problem - maybe) 7.0.212 * Fixed Fouls near middle pocket (balls were *still* dropping through table) * fixed -22% power problem when selecting balls in 2D on-line play * Improved lighing - added light models - lit ceiling, new materials * Improved ball shape in 2D views * Big improvements to aiming precision and speed. * Reinstated the Aim and Power sensitivity sliders (they actually do something agan now) * Fixed cue going through cushion problems * Changed firewall opening code * Added additional debug to problem startups (HWVP) * Possibly fixed and definitely limited the 'out of the room' problem. * Made balls slightly oversized to compensate for large pockets 7.0.210 * Fixes 'out of room' problem (hopefully) * fixes window title 7.0.209 * New Table, overhead Lighting,shadows, refelctions. * fixes ball through table problems 7.0.208 * Reinstates, Chalk, Table Markings and Lighting 7.0.207 * Fixes for table positioned incorrectly in 2D view 7.0.206 * Tuned computer opponent for new table (aims slightly inboard of pockets) * program now saves level of difficulty * fixed a bug in nomination of the free ball - thanks Mick * Added error submission/reporting (on problem startups) 7.0.202 * Capped dynamic frame rate at 40fps for aiming - and fixed to 40fps for shooting * added error logging to track down Taras SOR in redraw 7.0.201 * Dynamic frame rate adjustment whilst aiming (for less powerfull PC's/Graphics cards) 7.0.200 * Fixes computer cueing through side of table * Sets a sensible butt angle when taking shots in 2D * Adjusted mousewheel sensitivity * Cue power limits (stops > 100% when cue dodges balls) * Fixed bug when cueing wrong ball (blue, pink, black only fouled 4) * Major reduction in UDP traffic for on-line games - should help stability on wireless network games * Fixed LOCKUP problem when shots were taken with 0% power * Fixed computer opponent showing wrong % power * Added cue shadow (usefull hint of cue angle in 2D view) * Seriously upped frame rate - both for aiming and shooting * Made cue-camera initially stay 'down' for one second after taking the shot. 7.0.194 * Fixes aim lines too short on new table * fixes pink ball intersecting red ball * DOES NOT fix balls dropping through the table occassionaly near the middle pockets 7.0.193 * Removes 'Beta Expired' message * New to scale table - don't it's panic early days - it play's VERY differently * Improved Cue * Fixed Email not saving on my details - Thanks Sjoerd * Fixed 'Thanks' button - goes to homepage - Thanks Sjoerd * Improvement to speed of collision detection (smoother breaks) 7.0.190 * Fixes silly bug introduced with the computer opponent in .189 7.0.189 * COOL New method for setting spin - see news section of website. * Computer now nominates colours. * Fixed window sizing bug that crashed some machines - Thanks Sjoerd * Cue strike sound now proportional to power used - Thanks Eileen * Fixed the visible seams in the pool balls (hoorah - they've been annoying me for weeks) * Fixed buy now link - thanks Sjoerd - maybe you could use it now ;) * Fixed 'stepping outside' bug - thanks Corby * Changed Field Of View so the table 'Feels' much bigger. * Fixed computer placing white outside D - thanks Sjoerd. 7.0.188 * cosmetic improvments to nomination 'halo' * fixed a bug (introduced) with computer shot power (he was underpowering) * changed lighting attenuation * Changed Texture wrapping mode 7.0.187 * Improvements to aiming cue power limits - you can't push the cue 'through' the cueball (and get tied in knots with it) anymore. * Further reduction in memory required - and MORE logging. * Cue goes invisible when selecting a different cueball/changing spin. 7.0.184 * Major reduction in video memory requirment - Paul/Jeja - please try. * Aditional logging (relating to startup problems) * Changed presentation mode to vsync flip - may eliminate flicker on some machines * Improved impostering to remove some visual artifacts around legs, door knob, windows etc. * Improvements to aiming - Should be faster and more accurate (more to do) * NOTE:-The sensitivity settings in the menus have no effect at present. * NOTE:-If you push 'through' the cueball to less than 0% power - you can get stuck. 7.0.183 * Perfected the antialiasing (hooray!) of the 2D balls - looking very smart even in small views. * locked the aspect ratio of the 2D view when resized - so the balls are allways round. * laid groundwork for a big reduction in memory graphics memory requirements (ball packing) 7.0.182 * Improved the lighting, smoothing and apparent size of the 2d balls. (nightmare - and still not perfect) * fixed the inability to nominate on a free ball - which caused a number of problems. 7.0.181 * Dynamic texture resolution and ball detail based on the avaiable graphics memory * Or in English - cleaner Shinier Balls, Sharper floorboard, BrickWork and outdoor view images * May now run on 32Mb graphics cards (but don't have one to find out) * Removed Design Menu * Disabled escape key 7.0.180 * Expires in ANOTHER 7 days * Moved log files to Programdata location * Added Menu Option 'Help','View log Files' * Tidies up (deletes) old log files from beta7 folder * more error handling/trapping * logs available graphics memory 7.0.179 * changed zbuffer size to screen resolution instead of a fixed 2048*2048 - saves viedo memory on lower end graphics cards. * added line numbers in DirectX Initialization for debugging 7.0.178 * fixed aiming at 16fps for now * made chalk spot size change with power - so it resembles a reflection of of the cue tip * disabled testing of people who are already playing * removed the .dds files being left lying around 7.0.176 * Polished balls and removed seams - balls are less 'smudgy' * changed green ball colour for slightly improved visibility of the trajectory (it's stil not great) * fixed some issues in the screen resizing that may have been causing lockups on some machines. * Added chalk spots for the positions of the balls * dynamic frame rate when aiming - the frame rate will adjust up to 33 fps when aiming - depending on the power of your machine. * fixed error where 'foul' showed biefly during the computers turn 7.0.174 * Reworked table markings for antialiasing to reducetearing and flicker of the D and balk line NB: D/Balk like are temporarily missing from the 2D view * increased frame rate by 10% for smoother graphics * made fiendish break harder * rehashed enabling and disabling of the game menu 7.0.173 * Significant speedup to the collision detection * Speeds up computer opponent * Much improved computer opponent breaks * Moved 'Concede' to the 'Game' menu. 7.0.172 * Tidies window sizing handles * Made possible to stretch top edge * Fixed missing segment from D * Desensitise white bias so camera will tend to track the object ball * Animated the computer cue movement * Fade the cue after shot is taken * Turned off trajectories when cueball is struck * Redid Thinking text and added drop shadows * Disabled all function keys - removed some logging, disabled escape key 7.0.170 * fixes the temporary fix, to the fix of the fix. * fixes spelling of registered on my details page * changes backgrounds from pink to dark blue * fixes livescores reporting 7.0.169 * temporary fix to outgoing datagram que - stops games going awry (turns getting messed up, balls coming back) * removes escape key and design menu 7.0.168 * Adds automatic configuration of the Windows Firewall 7.0.165 * fixes to fixes to auto router/firewall config 7.0.164 * Fixes to auto firewall config 7.0.163 * Automatically configures your hardware Router/Firewall via UPnP if available 7.0.162 * FIXES - Big problems in on-line play !! 7.0.158 * Fixed you being able to respot the white when asked to replay a miss where you potted the white. * added logging when you are *being* tested in the WR 7.0.157 * Fixed 'not your go' problem on 2 player * fixes respotting white on 2 player (different symptom - same cause) * tidies chat window gives 80/20 split to chat/compose * changes cue cam angle - to be *directly* above the cue - makes playing without the ball paths possible (but very hard!) 7.0.155 * Reinstates the Aids menu - TRY TURNING OFF OBJECT BALL PATH FOR A CHALLENGE ! * Fixes Datagram sequencing errors * Reports on retried packets in on-line play * May resolve white respot, and 'not your go' problems - but I couldn't actually reproduce either. * Disables the 'play' button whilst updates are downloading * Tidies up the screen during resizing so it's slightly less amateur hour. 7.0.154 * fixes chat problem 7.0.153 * fixes stupidly long timeout accidently left in on waiting room connections 7.0.152 * Fixes crazy score bug * tidies the opponent lost connection messages * fixes Green Floating triangle near the door 7.0.151 * Fixes your opponent being able to respot the white for your * fixes wild camera swings leaving you staring at the floor/ceiling when you tried to pan * Reinstates LAN play (sort of) * Messages if your opponent stops responding 7.0.149 * fixes problem with smileys in in game chat 7.0.148 * Fixes stupid bug in respotting - doh 7.0.147 * Synchronises the 'respot' state of balls to fix problmes with respotting the white if your put back in having potted it. * livescores re-instated * moving the white in the D reinstated (right mouse button) * allows chat window to be resized 7.0.146 * This version WILL say 'Registry Corrupt' DONT PANIC ! * Will also - 'de-register' you - again DONT PANIC ! * Go into 'white room' to 'collect' your new key * Adds Hints on the opening screen (because nobody reads manuals) * Adds new key protection - and moves all settings out of the system registry 7.0.142 * fixes problems with message boxes being burried - making it 'impossible' to hit the white. 7.0.140 * Makes mouse wheel 4 times *less* sensitive * Puts smileys (via keyboard shortcuts) in in-game chat * respotting black on a draw * fixes balls left floating over pockets * fixes fouls of less than four points against computer 7.0.139 * fixes on-line play respot of white (after you've respotted - they're asked to next shot) * Clips trajectories against the table geometry so the don't look like they're 'floating' * Resets spin between shots in the 2D view 7.0.138 * General fix for white stuck in pocket problem - (in setmode) * fixes for panel/next ball visibility * minor fixes to repotting when spots are covered * reinstatement of reporting wins (and converted to use UDP) * fixes for going in off colours (and/or potting the colour) * first stab at a 'playing' status so you remain in the player grid (greyed out) when playing on-line (and can be whispered to) 7.0.136 * Fixes problems where balls knocked onto the floor didn't deactivate and were thought to be 'on' still 7.0.135 * Fixes some starup problems 0 second player positioning white in d 7.0.133 * Re-instates the coin toss for on-line games (test version) 7.0.132 * More fixes to do with respotting - including 'floaters' (where balls come to rest up on the cushions) * fixes problem with the white failing to respot when pocketed (or actually players failing to put it in the D) 7.0.129 * Respots floored colours (need to check in off a colour doesn't cause colour to be respotted) * fixes incredibly annoying mouse bug (maybe) - premature firing 7.0.128 * Addresses some serious problmes with scoring, free balls, misses etc once you reach the colours ('yellow' was undefinded) * Adds a connectivity test button to the WR - select an opponent in the player grid and press 'test' * Adresses problems with some window positions causing 'Overflow'errors (% power indicator was off screen) 7.0.121 * Lowered power significantly to be more like 'classic' Quicksnooker * Zoomed the 2D view in slightly to show less floor (and more table) 7.0.120 * Added error trapping to try and isolate Overflow error 7.0.119 * PELASE TRY THE ONLINE PLAY - if you cant receive a challenge try making one ! * Livened the pack (lowered the collision losses) * Slow balls more quickly - can do more - but it's a balance * Chalkspot visibilty issues * miscuing - fixed problem where the cue goes through the table and goes on 'forever' * major rehash of on-line play adding a Datagram Que/stack and packet retry mechanism over UDP 7.0.99 * Improvements to in game chat (you see your messgages) * Improvements to aiming - focus is now moved towards tohe object balls destination (after a short delay) means when you're cutting into a pocket - you get to see the pocket * camera refocuses on the cueball when the shot finishes * some rouge mouse click problems solved (maybe) 7.0.98 * Fixes to posting in the WR plus some error handling in the command parser 7.0.97 * Fixes to cue dodging in on line play - seems to fix 3d 'Ghosts' HOORAH * Don't get to excited though - there is no connection recovery, packet checking etc so you're unlikely to get through a game (yet) 7.0.96 * Changes to UDP on-line play - to deal with 'datagram truncation' errors 7.0.91 * Completely changes how on-line play works - Waiting room uses TCP in Game is now UDP peer-peer NOTE:- this version has no error correction, encryption or que checking - it is likely to be extremely unreliable. 7.0.89 * Really Fixes problems with corrupt (old version) layouts (maybe) * fixes some 'overflow' errors when switching views * uses programdata for temp files instead of temppath 7.0.87 * Fixes problems with corrupt (old version) layouts 7.0.84 * Pool much improved, balls roll, computer opponent plays reasonably * fixed snooker ball colours problem when switching to pool and back * defines and deploys three 'standard' layouts - switch with the 1,2,3 keys * Fixes missing brown stripe ball problem - which meant there were two whites ! * Improvements to camera moves and initial postion. * Improvments to concedeing, quiting and exiting 7.0.83 * Lots of work on the computer opponent, faster and the levels of difficulty are now used. * Timeout problem on connection to waiting room fixed. * several 'sillyerror' messages added to try and track down 'ghosts' problems in on-line play. 7.0.82 * Adds Layouts and layout switching (use 1,2,3,4,5 keys) * Fixes problem with in game chat window not navigating * fixes major problems with computer oppo, especially off the break (repeated foul etc) 7.0.81 * Fixes fixes to the score panel - still scrappy but says the right things now. * Handles balls jumping off the table better, calling fouls and respotting as necessary. * Dynamic frame rates - frame rate is halved when aiming a shot for more responsive mouse control. * frame rate is doubled when the shot is played through for smoother faster simulation. 7.0.79 * fixes score panel (not entirely - but much improved) * attempts to address change of game type before play starts 7.0.77 * Fixes problems with nomination and the camera panning 7.0.76 * fixes some problems with error 91's and potentially the chat window 7.0.75 * disabled callbacks and dropped frames to 25fps - to see if its the cause of IE problems 7.0.74 * on-line play/queuing fixes 7.0.72 * fixed autoupdate 7.0.71 * Broke autoupdate (way to go - ace!) * swapped green and yellow * lots of changes in network play/error recovery/state managment * fixed 'loose' spelling - Autoupdate * fixed 'table' image (double D's) - Autoupdate * fixed (some) camera through table problems 7.0.67 * Added shot 'test snooker' game * Added 'reason' for conceding if it's not your turn * removed various other scenarios for ending a game/quitting * Added a 'gracefull' disconnect from the serve when ending the program * lots of changes around state managment, gameover, gamestarted etc - to 'detect' quits. 7.0.63 * added single pixel frames to windows * changed maximum power and rate of ball slowdown * added 'Aids','Reset layout' so you can reset the window layout to a defautlt if you get in a pickle. * reinstated autoupdate * added on-line chat (using IE browsers like the WR - will allow for smileys, pics etc in game chat (in future). * Uses 'connectionless' waiting room - expect some lag - and *many* other issues (short term) 7.0.305 * IF YOU HAVE HAD TROUBLE GETTING IN THE WHITE ROOM PLEASE TRY AGAN * Fixes message display problems - some messages from the server were not being displayed (such as 'your email adddrss is blank') * Makes report of wins work on both IP address and Domain Name * Makes AI (computer opponent) now go for 'teetering' balls (which it used to overlook) - thanks Eileen. * Fixed Email address import (from old version problem) * Rehashed return to waiting room at the end of the game.. should be quick and easy now. 7.0.300 * Fix for bug #103 ( Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games ) 7.0.299 * further separates the table data from the ball data to try to solve the balls not reappearing for the rematch. 7.0.297 * Fix for array is fixed or locked chen challenging somone playing the AI 7.0.294 * Nominating colours with keys 2-7 now require SHIFT key aswell (because otherwise you cant get views 2 or 3 anymore!) 7.0.292 * Removes some of the You Win/You Loose messages in various Early Quit/Game change scenarios * Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games (2nd attempt!) 7.0.290 * Fixes ball dropping through table (which was an edge detection problem) 7.0.289 * Fixes 'array is fixed or temporarily locked' error Bug #103 which . . * Allows balls to be replaced for second and subsequent games * Fixes Miscue Crashing program - bug #107 * Extends 'too long' timeout message by 15 seconds every time *you* post (so that you can chat in game without the annoying pop-up) * Only allows you to claim a win if you have an unassailable lead - points on the table +8 (in the event of a technical problem - or a 'refusal' by your oppo) bug #105 - Yisc 7.0.285 * Further improvements to end game/ conceding, quitting before the game has begun. * Clear messages for when your opponent has left * fixes chalk/cueball out of sight when cueing with low power as steep angles (bug #78) * improved internal state management for player connections * fixed Tab going to smileys bug #95 (yisc) * fixes 'invalid argument in sendscores bug #96 (paris) * fixes transparent pool and hex table bugs 7.0.282 * Changes how you return to the waiting room after a game (pops the window back up and sends your status) * Fixes all issues relating to cueing over balls * Fixes (almost) all 'cue through table' issues (still the theoretical possibility of half a *side* of a cue in the cushion) * notifies you when your opponent leaves the room 7.0.281 * Allows nomination of the colours with keys 2-7 * Improves initial connections (by keeping the UDP socket alive) * Impliments Miscue * More information on connection tests (including wo is testing you) * other minor fixes 7.0.279 * Logging for balls falling through table * possible fix for live scores * fixed so games with insufficient points scored aren't recorded 7.0.276 * Removes most of the logging * Allows 'bailing' out of a game before the first shot is played * Gives 'Your opponent has left before the first shot was played' message (correctly) in case of above. * Concede option - continuously avalable - after the first shot is played (but conceding out of turn demands a reason) * Alternating breaks - when a new game is proposed 7.0.274 * Fixes as 'subscript out of range' error that occurred after a long run of shots 7.0.273 * Major switch back to a server based topology - Peer-to-Peer is too inconsistent, and no convincing mechanism exists to automatically configure routers. Many QS users lack the technical know-how to configure their routers correctly - So I am forced back to this arrangment. It's not all bad, this new version is UDP instead of TCP making it more efficient, and the server component has been seperated from the waiting room so it need not be 'taken down' to work on the room. 7.0.269 * Put back UpNP in a 'silent' mode * other changes to conenction testing * fixes bug in end game - so you can leave the room when the game is finished without conceding 7.0.260 * fixes big bug in conceding in on-line play * describes connection test failures as 'type A' or 'type B' (so you can tell me which easily) 7.0.259 * Interim build - Removes 'expired message' - Internet Play may be broken (or fixed - it's hard to tell) 7.0.255 * Added more debug logging to multiple contacts * fixed a problem with 'who's on-line' on the web ranks page * The 'internet waiting room' remains available in the menus until the first shot is played.. allowing you to 'bail out' 7.0.253 * Completed text colouring in chat - hover over the coloured buttons for help * Added smileys to in game chat * fixed another problem in getting connections 7.0.248 * Echoed challenge is fixed * Changed challenge to work by GUID instead of SM (fixes another bug in challenges) * Text colouring in chat * Removed blank line in chat * Added a message for when it is unable to configure the router (and Networking web page) 7.0.247 * Another attempt at fixing the echoed challenge (problem introduced in version .239 - it transpires) 7.0.246 * Hopefully fixes the 'echoed challenge' problem - where your opponent proposes a game in response t your challenge. 7.0.244 * Fixed left in stop statement (Potblack) * minor changes to connectivity test 7.0.239 * much improved nets * stopped several lockups/crashes when changing gametype during play against the computer * fixed balls 'jumping' near pockets * fixed balls going through table near pockets * remade hex table * added more errortrapping to 'aftershot' * fixed respotting of the pink (or any other colour for that matter - onto a red spot) * re-ordered ball drawing to improve closeup outline against windows/doors * fixed various crashes/lockups if attempting to resize windows whilst the computer plays * Fixed 'ears' on balls (stray extra pixels when zoomed in close) * fixed ridiculous computer break on hard, short snooker level (white banged into cue) 7.0.237 * Removed all stray stop statements (including the one in UDPSocket Error - which was probably frustrating Storm) 7.0.236 * Cue movements smoother in on-line play * Green ball trajectory contrasts with table * Improvements to the file, load table screen * Added new table 'SnookerHex' 7.0.235 * fixes cue visibility problems in on-line play (maybe?) * Fixes player names on panel in second and subsequent legs of a pool game 7.0.234 * Changes to connecting in on-line play. * fixed problem with spin off cushsions. 7.0.228 * Larger spots, better lines. * removed white edge where the cue collided (left in for degbug by accident) * Fixed cueing through balls (left disabled by accident) * Added 'Q' and 'E' keys to 'roll' (twist) the overhead/2D camera * Fixed several bugs with pool free ball handling * Added Free ball text to pool score panel * added 'legs' to the pool game - currently plays a 'best of 3' - needs testing 7.0.226 * Fixes some of the problems with onlne play/connections * Two computers behind the same firewall can now play eachother - which will help me work more quickly tomorrow * Changes to when the coin toss occurs (now after the challenge is successfully made) * possible fix for cue visiblilty problems. 7.0.225 * Much improved thumbnails (delete .bmp files in your tables folder to have them refreshed) * Correct white ball positon restricting for pool break (behind the balk line and ON the table) * Some problems with view '3' fixed * Problems with aspect ratio fixed * Major changes to the on-line play - now uses the same port both sides * Added 'advanced' option under Internet Play so you can set the UDP port (to allow you to play 2 computers behind the same NAT firewall) 7.0.224 * Puts snooker table 'right way up' in the 2D view * fixes minor problem with holes/smudges on pool balls 7.0.223 * Extra debugging/logging 7.0.222 * Fixes 'Subscript out of range' in 'cycle' * Creates pool ball images on disk for debugging * has known issue with the 2D snooker table being the 'wrong way up' - working on it * Use 'I'/'O' keys to get more of the table visible for now. 7.0.221 * Improvments to thumbnailer (small pictures on the file,load table screen) * Venue files now carry a default game type - which it switches to when that venue is loaded * overhead view automatically zooms to accommodate table (currently wrong on pool table) * 'D' is removed for pool games 7.0.220 * fixes problems with ball graphics - See .219 - please delete your tables.. 7.0.219 *IMPORTANT*\/\/\/\/\/\/ ***** RECOMMEND YOU DELETE THE CONTENTS OF YOUR C:\program files\quicksnooker beta7\tables folder NOW, before proceeding. ***** * Thumbnails the .scn files to give a choice of rooms under 'load table' * Includes 'Orangery4.scn' - which contains a purple 8Ft Pool table. * Uses a single texture for all pool balls for improved speed (and later, quality) * allows scene files to override materials (hence the purple baize) * removes all 'stop' statements. * moves lights into their own folder 7.0.218 * Extra line numbers in device initialization - no visible changes 7.0.217 * fixes stupid mistake in 7.0.216 - preventing startup 7.0.216 * Falls back to Software Vertex processing if the device initialisation fails (with HWVP) * May get it working on a number of 'problem' machines. 7.0.215 * Fixed/Limited spin - over use of spin was allowing crazy ball velocities. * Fixed returning to previous cueball (two right clicks). * Fixed - Sensible start position for cue for computer oppo. * Improved help messages for beginners. * Set default, defualt player combo to Human V computer (human breaks) * Forgot to mention .. Opponent shows his *planned* shot (not including his error) 7.0.214 * BIG speedup of computer oppo (now 'thinks' twice as fast) * Reworked aiming again - to fix cue tilt changing as you swung cue and give more natural 'swing' (angle based instead of linear) * fixed problems with wrong perentage power showing * Cue Soft shadows * Improved thumbnailer/room chooser * added a shrink function to saving - rooms are now 20% smaller file size * Big improvements to table marking to stop flicker and tearing * Dampened cushions slightly - increased drag slightly, lowered top speed slightly * allowed the computer to raise the cue butt higher to be able to hit balls (fixes lock-up problem - maybe) 7.0.212 * Fixed Fouls near middle pocket (balls were *still* dropping through table) * fixed -22% power problem when selecting balls in 2D on-line play * Improved lighing - added light models - lit ceiling, new materials * Improved ball shape in 2D views * Big improvements to aiming precision and speed. * Reinstated the Aim and Power sensitivity sliders (they actually do something agan now) * Fixed cue going through cushion problems * Changed firewall opening code * Added additional debug to problem startups (HWVP) * Possibly fixed and definitely limited the 'out of the room' problem. * Made balls slightly oversized to compensate for large pockets 7.0.210 * Fixes 'out of room' problem (hopefully) * fixes window title 7.0.209 * New Table, overhead Lighting,shadows, refelctions. * fixes ball through table problems 7.0.208 * Reinstates, Chalk, Table Markings and Lighting 7.0.207 * Fixes for table positioned incorrectly in 2D view 7.0.206 * Tuned computer opponent for new table (aims slightly inboard of pockets) * program now saves level of difficulty * fixed a bug in nomination of the free ball - thanks Mick * Added error submission/reporting (on problem startups) 7.0.202 * Capped dynamic frame rate at 40fps for aiming - and fixed to 40fps for shooting * added error logging to track down Taras SOR in redraw 7.0.201 * Dynamic frame rate adjustment whilst aiming (for less powerfull PC's/Graphics cards) 7.0.200 * Fixes computer cueing through side of table * Sets a sensible butt angle when taking shots in 2D * Adjusted mousewheel sensitivity * Cue power limits (stops > 100% when cue dodges balls) * Fixed bug when cueing wrong ball (blue, pink, black only fouled 4) * Major reduction in UDP traffic for on-line games - should help stability on wireless network games * Fixed LOCKUP problem when shots were taken with 0% power * Fixed computer opponent showing wrong % power * Added cue shadow (usefull hint of cue angle in 2D view) * Seriously upped frame rate - both for aiming and shooting * Made cue-camera initially stay 'down' for one second after taking the shot. 7.0.194 * Fixes aim lines too short on new table * fixes pink ball intersecting red ball * DOES NOT fix balls dropping through the table occassionaly near the middle pockets 7.0.193 * Removes 'Beta Expired' message * New to scale table - don't it's panic early days - it play's VERY differently * Improved Cue * Fixed Email not saving on my details - Thanks Sjoerd * Fixed 'Thanks' button - goes to homepage - Thanks Sjoerd * Improvement to speed of collision detection (smoother breaks) 7.0.190 * Fixes silly bug introduced with the computer opponent in .189 7.0.189 * COOL New method for setting spin - see news section of website. * Computer now nominates colours. * Fixed window sizing bug that crashed some machines - Thanks Sjoerd * Cue strike sound now proportional to power used - Thanks Eileen * Fixed the visible seams in the pool balls (hoorah - they've been annoying me for weeks) * Fixed buy now link - thanks Sjoerd - maybe you could use it now ;) * Fixed 'stepping outside' bug - thanks Corby * Changed Field Of View so the table 'Feels' much bigger. * Fixed computer placing white outside D - thanks Sjoerd. 7.0.188 * cosmetic improvments to nomination 'halo' * fixed a bug (introduced) with computer shot power (he was underpowering) * changed lighting attenuation * Changed Texture wrapping mode 7.0.187 * Improvements to aiming cue power limits - you can't push the cue 'through' the cueball (and get tied in knots with it) anymore. * Further reduction in memory required - and MORE logging. * Cue goes invisible when selecting a different cueball/changing spin. 7.0.184 * Major reduction in video memory requirment - Paul/Jeja - please try. * Aditional logging (relating to startup problems) * Changed presentation mode to vsync flip - may eliminate flicker on some machines * Improved impostering to remove some visual artifacts around legs, door knob, windows etc. * Improvements to aiming - Should be faster and more accurate (more to do) * NOTE:-The sensitivity settings in the menus have no effect at present. * NOTE:-If you push 'through' the cueball to less than 0% power - you can get stuck. 7.0.183 * Perfected the antialiasing (hooray!) of the 2D balls - looking very smart even in small views. * locked the aspect ratio of the 2D view when resized - so the balls are allways round. * laid groundwork for a big reduction in memory graphics memory requirements (ball packing) 7.0.182 * Improved the lighting, smoothing and apparent size of the 2d balls. (nightmare - and still not perfect) * fixed the inability to nominate on a free ball - which caused a number of problems. 7.0.181 * Dynamic texture resolution and ball detail based on the avaiable graphics memory * Or in English - cleaner Shinier Balls, Sharper floorboard, BrickWork and outdoor view images * May now run on 32Mb graphics cards (but don't have one to find out) * Removed Design Menu * Disabled escape key 7.0.180 * Expires in ANOTHER 7 days * Moved log files to Programdata location * Added Menu Option 'Help','View log Files' * Tidies up (deletes) old log files from beta7 folder * more error handling/trapping * logs available graphics memory 7.0.179 * changed zbuffer size to screen resolution instead of a fixed 2048*2048 - saves viedo memory on lower end graphics cards. * added line numbers in DirectX Initialization for debugging 7.0.178 * fixed aiming at 16fps for now * made chalk spot size change with power - so it resembles a reflection of of the cue tip * disabled testing of people who are already playing * removed the .dds files being left lying around 7.0.176 * Polished balls and removed seams - balls are less 'smudgy' * changed green ball colour for slightly improved visibility of the trajectory (it's stil not great) * fixed some issues in the screen resizing that may have been causing lockups on some machines. * Added chalk spots for the positions of the balls * dynamic frame rate when aiming - the frame rate will adjust up to 33 fps when aiming - depending on the power of your machine. * fixed error where 'foul' showed biefly during the computers turn 7.0.174 * Reworked table markings for antialiasing to reducetearing and flicker of the D and balk line NB: D/Balk like are temporarily missing from the 2D view * increased frame rate by 10% for smoother graphics * made fiendish break harder * rehashed enabling and disabling of the game menu 7.0.173 * Significant speedup to the collision detection * Speeds up computer opponent * Much improved computer opponent breaks * Moved 'Concede' to the 'Game' menu. 7.0.172 * Tidies window sizing handles * Made possible to stretch top edge * Fixed missing segment from D * Desensitise white bias so camera will tend to track the object ball * Animated the computer cue movement * Fade the cue after shot is taken * Turned off trajectories when cueball is struck * Redid Thinking text and added drop shadows * Disabled all function keys - removed some logging, disabled escape key 7.0.170 * fixes the temporary fix, to the fix of the fix. * fixes spelling of registered on my details page * changes backgrounds from pink to dark blue * fixes livescores reporting 7.0.169 * temporary fix to outgoing datagram que - stops games going awry (turns getting messed up, balls coming back) * removes escape key and design menu 7.0.168 * Adds automatic configuration of the Windows Firewall 7.0.165 * fixes to fixes to auto router/firewall config 7.0.164 * Fixes to auto firewall config 7.0.163 * Automatically configures your hardware Router/Firewall via UPnP if available 7.0.162 * FIXES - Big problems in on-line play !! 7.0.158 * Fixed you being able to respot the white when asked to replay a miss where you potted the white. * added logging when you are *being* tested in the WR 7.0.157 * Fixed 'not your go' problem on 2 player * fixes respotting white on 2 player (different symptom - same cause) * tidies chat window gives 80/20 split to chat/compose * changes cue cam angle - to be *directly* above the cue - makes playing without the ball paths possible (but very hard!) 7.0.155 * Reinstates the Aids menu - TRY TURNING OFF OBJECT BALL PATH FOR A CHALLENGE ! * Fixes Datagram sequencing errors * Reports on retried packets in on-line play * May resolve white respot, and 'not your go' problems - but I couldn't actually reproduce either. * Disables the 'play' button whilst updates are downloading * Tidies up the screen during resizing so it's slightly less amateur hour. 7.0.154 * fixes chat problem 7.0.153 * fixes stupidly long timeout accidently left in on waiting room connections 7.0.152 * Fixes crazy score bug * tidies the opponent lost connection messages * fixes Green Floating triangle near the door 7.0.151 * Fixes your opponent being able to respot the white for your * fixes wild camera swings leaving you staring at the floor/ceiling when you tried to pan * Reinstates LAN play (sort of) * Messages if your opponent stops responding 7.0.149 * fixes problem with smileys in in game chat 7.0.148 * Fixes stupid bug in respotting - doh 7.0.147 * Synchronises the 'respot' state of balls to fix problmes with respotting the white if your put back in having potted it. * livescores re-instated * moving the white in the D reinstated (right mouse button) * allows chat window to be resized 7.0.146 * This version WILL say 'Registry Corrupt' DONT PANIC ! * Will also - 'de-register' you - again DONT PANIC ! * Go into 'white room' to 'collect' your new key * Adds Hints on the opening screen (because nobody reads manuals) * Adds new key protection - and moves all settings out of the system registry 7.0.142 * fixes problems with message boxes being burried - making it 'impossible' to hit the white. 7.0.140 * Makes mouse wheel 4 times *less* sensitive * Puts smileys (via keyboard shortcuts) in in-game chat * respotting black on a draw * fixes balls left floating over pockets * fixes fouls of less than four points against computer 7.0.139 * fixes on-line play respot of white (after you've respotted - they're asked to next shot) * Clips trajectories against the table geometry so the don't look like they're 'floating' * Resets spin between shots in the 2D view 7.0.138 * General fix for white stuck in pocket problem - (in setmode) * fixes for panel/next ball visibility * minor fixes to repotting when spots are covered * reinstatement of reporting wins (and converted to use UDP) * fixes for going in off colours (and/or potting the colour) * first stab at a 'playing' status so you remain in the player grid (greyed out) when playing on-line (and can be whispered to) 7.0.136 * Fixes problems where balls knocked onto the floor didn't deactivate and were thought to be 'on' still 7.0.135 * Fixes some starup problems 0 second player positioning white in d 7.0.133 * Re-instates the coin toss for on-line games (test version) 7.0.132 * More fixes to do with respotting - including 'floaters' (where balls come to rest up on the cushions) * fixes problem with the white failing to respot when pocketed (or actually players failing to put it in the D) 7.0.129 * Respots floored colours (need to check in off a colour doesn't cause colour to be respotted) * fixes incredibly annoying mouse bug (maybe) - premature firing 7.0.128 * Addresses some serious problmes with scoring, free balls, misses etc once you reach the colours ('yellow' was undefinded) * Adds a connectivity test button to the WR - select an opponent in the player grid and press 'test' * Adresses problems with some window positions causing 'Overflow'errors (% power indicator was off screen) 7.0.121 * Lowered power significantly to be more like 'classic' Quicksnooker * Zoomed the 2D view in slightly to show less floor (and more table) 7.0.120 * Added error trapping to try and isolate Overflow error 7.0.119 * PELASE TRY THE ONLINE PLAY - if you cant receive a challenge try making one ! * Livened the pack (lowered the collision losses) * Slow balls more quickly - can do more - but it's a balance * Chalkspot visibilty issues * miscuing - fixed problem where the cue goes through the table and goes on 'forever' * major rehash of on-line play adding a Datagram Que/stack and packet retry mechanism over UDP 7.0.99 * Improvements to in game chat (you see your messgages) * Improvements to aiming - focus is now moved towards tohe object balls destination (after a short delay) means when you're cutting into a pocket - you get to see the pocket * camera refocuses on the cueball when the shot finishes * some rouge mouse click problems solved (maybe) 7.0.98 * Fixes to posting in the WR plus some error handling in the command parser 7.0.97 * Fixes to cue dodging in on line play - seems to fix 3d 'Ghosts' HOORAH * Don't get to excited though - there is no connection recovery, packet checking etc so you're unlikely to get through a game (yet) 7.0.96 * Changes to UDP on-line play - to deal with 'datagram truncation' errors 7.0.91 * Completely changes how on-line play works - Waiting room uses TCP in Game is now UDP peer-peer NOTE:- this version has no error correction, encryption or que checking - it is likely to be extremely unreliable. 7.0.89 * Really Fixes problems with corrupt (old version) layouts (maybe) * fixes some 'overflow' errors when switching views * uses programdata for temp files instead of temppath 7.0.87 * Fixes problems with corrupt (old version) layouts 7.0.84 * Pool much improved, balls roll, computer opponent plays reasonably * fixed snooker ball colours problem when switching to pool and back * defines and deploys three 'standard' layouts - switch with the 1,2,3 keys * Fixes missing brown stripe ball problem - which meant there were two whites ! * Improvements to camera moves and initial postion. * Improvments to concedeing, quiting and exiting 7.0.83 * Lots of work on the computer opponent, faster and the levels of difficulty are now used. * Timeout problem on connection to waiting room fixed. * several 'sillyerror' messages added to try and track down 'ghosts' problems in on-line play. 7.0.82 * Adds Layouts and layout switching (use 1,2,3,4,5 keys) * Fixes problem with in game chat window not navigating * fixes major problems with computer oppo, especially off the break (repeated foul etc) 7.0.81 * Fixes fixes to the score panel - still scrappy but says the right things now. * Handles balls jumping off the table better, calling fouls and respotting as necessary. * Dynamic frame rates - frame rate is halved when aiming a shot for more responsive mouse control. * frame rate is doubled when the shot is played through for smoother faster simulation. 7.0.79 * fixes score panel (not entirely - but much improved) * attempts to address change of game type before play starts 7.0.77 * Fixes problems with nomination and the camera panning 7.0.76 * fixes some problems with error 91's and potentially the chat window 7.0.75 * disabled callbacks and dropped frames to 25fps - to see if its the cause of IE problems 7.0.74 * on-line play/queuing fixes 7.0.72 * fixed autoupdate 7.0.71 * Broke autoupdate (way to go - ace!) * swapped green and yellow * lots of changes in network play/error recovery/state managment * fixed 'loose' spelling - Autoupdate * fixed 'table' image (double D's) - Autoupdate * fixed (some) camera through table problems 7.0.67 * Added shot 'test snooker' game * Added 'reason' for conceding if it's not your turn * removed various other scenarios for ending a game/quitting * Added a 'gracefull' disconnect from the serve when ending the program * lots of changes around state managment, gameover, gamestarted etc - to 'detect' quits. 7.0.63 * added single pixel frames to windows * changed maximum power and rate of ball slowdown * added 'Aids','Reset layout' so you can reset the window layout to a defautlt if you get in a pickle. * reinstated autoupdate * added on-line chat (using IE browsers like the WR - will allow for smileys, pics etc in game chat (in future). * Uses 'connectionless' waiting room - expect some lag - and *many* other issues (short term)