Multiplayer, how viable is it really?

[Great One]

I'm wondering if anyone here has actually played through a PBEM game. Does it work well? Is it too inconvenient or not? Any AARs?

[Lafrite]

Perfectly viable if you can manipulate files.

A player plays the role of Host.

Host send 1 file TRN to each players (result of last turn)
Host gather 1 ORD file from each players (orders from players) [Edit Pocus: recolt > gather]

Exemple

Before 'Next turn' resolution, two players have send their .ord to Host


After 'Next Turn' resolution, Host send .trn to players

[vLabz]

please note that there is an improvement project aiming at automating files manipulations regarding to PBEM. It should not be available before a few monthes though.

[pmiranda]

PBEM works quite well. The only issue (apart from the awkward file management) is that the non-hosting player does not get to see the turn replay: he only sees the end situation. However, he can check the journal to see what happened during the turn, so it's not a big deal.

[vLabz]

well, actually, it won't change any internals regarding to PBEM, but will provide some multiplayer service that will be much more convenient than pure PBEM.