II. The Modules
         B. Sprite Editor

MODULE    : CharGen.EXE

    PURPOSE      :

The character editor database allows the creation and management of all NPC (Non-Player Characters) within Explorations game world.

   
    DATABASE     : PC.DAT, NPC.DAT
   
    TAB          : General Info
   
        PROPERTIES    :

Each character sprite has these standard properties. The Sprite Type & Sprite Class are the critical properties which determine how a sprite will appear in your game. (see Data Diagram) Each sprite is assigned the default BLT Method specified in the Sprite Type but also has an override BLT Method property.

When graphics are attached to the sprite data object, the graphic preview will be visible in this area. You can view the sprite in any direction and either of its three standard animations. (IDLE, RUNNING, & WALKING)

        BUTTONS       :

These buttons control the Recordset management of the Sprite database. Changing a property value doesn't automatically save to the database. Always remember to UPDATE a changed record before you move to a new recordset.

    TAB          : Options
   
        PROPERTIES    :

These properties enhance the sprites Artificial Intelligence and Combat engine. It allows you to control if a sprite can move, pivot, and attack.

        BUTTONS       :

Each sprite can have a series of EVENT TRIGGERS. These buttons allow you to create, edit, and clear an event script buffer for this specific sprite.

       EVENTS :

    TAB          : Stats
   
        PROPERTIES    :

The stats properties are the values which determine the power, intelligence, and endurance of a character sprite. Both PCs (player characters) an NPCs (non-player characters) share the same properties. NPC stats values are a percentage base between 50% - 250%. The values are determined at runtime to represent a relative value to the current players. This will allow NPCs to be increasingly more powerful as players advance.

The stats fields are randomly rolled when the character record is created. Click any stat to re-roll the value, or double click the stat to manually enter the value of your choice. This allows you to create monsters quickly and fine-tune only the important stats.

Objects, Weapons, Spells.. etc.. can all have affects on these stats. Later you will notice that object creation also allows you to set stats values. Though, objects stats are set in a reference of change. (+/-) This change is applied to the sprite that is affected by the object. (see object creation)

    TAB          : Equipment
   
        PROPERTIES    :

The Equipment Tab allows you to add and remove objects to the sprites inventory. You may add both physical and virtual (skills) objects to the sprite. To remove an item simply select the item and press the 'D' key to delete.

When an item is selected, you will see a preview of the stats that the object affects. These are the stat values which are changed on the target sprite which this item is used. You may also equip the item on a given body part where applicable.