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[Outdated] Writing missions for Folk

Posted: Fri Jun 18, 2010 1:52 pm
by fer
I want to make a mission for Folk; where do I start?
First thing you need to do is download a build of F2 that's preconfigured for Folk missions. Fortunately for you, some have already been made:
F2 OA Folk v2-6-1
Download: f2_v2-6-1_oa_folk.7z
Description: This is the baseline template for all Folk ArmA2: Combined Operations missions after June 2012. It includes complete Folk platoons (new pattern) for all major factions (at least 2 per side), and can be used to create coop and adversarial missions.
Got it. Is there a mission naming standard?
A rudimentary one. It consists of: the Folk prefix, the mission type and playercount, name and version.

How does the prefix work?
The prefix for Folk missions begins fk, after which we add co to indicate the mission requires Armed Assault 2: Combined Operations (Armed Assault 2 + Operation Arrowhead). After that we add an underscore. For example:

fkco_

If fkco is for Combined Operations, what are the prefixes for ArmA2 and Operation Arrowhead missions?
They are, respectively:

fka2_
fkoa_


How do we indicate mission type and playercount?
After the underscore we add co for co-operative missions, or adv for adversarials; immediately after that we add the maximum number of players and then another underscore. For example:

fkco_co24_

What about the mission name?
Anything you like, but try to keep it short and use lowercase letters and underscores instead of spaces. After the name we add a final underscore. For example:

fkco_co24_victory_rose_

And the version?
Ideally, start with a lowercase v and then a whole number. For example:

fkco_co24_victory_rose_v3

I'm set. Now, can I make any type of mission?
Yes, but remember that the focus at Folk is on small co-operative missions designed to last around 30 minutes. Missions like that are most likely to be played.

Do I need to use the Folk platoon?
Please do. Don't feel you have to use all the attachments, but it really helps when we don't have to figure out a new ORBAT with each mission. Some of us are really old and frail, and we get confused easily.

What about changing the loadouts?
You can if you want, but please try to avoid scoped rifles beyond a single sniper team (with limited rounds).

Can I use units and objects from ArmA2 in my mission?
Yes. We ask that missions require only a copy of Armed Assault 2: Combined Operations.

Can I use units and objects from BAF and PMC?
Yes. You can also use these, because even players who do not own these extensions will have the lite versions included in their copies of Armed Assault 2: Combined Operations.

Can I use custom addons or ACE2 in my mission?
No, please don't. We are not running ACE2 or ACRE etc. during the session.

Can I use custom scripts?
Sure. Just please be sure to test them thoroughly!

Do I need to include a briefing?
Yes, please do. The standard briefing template in F2 is what we'd like you to use.

How do I put that wonderful Folk logo into the opening of my mission?
You mean the Folk ident that appears in the top-left corner of the screen for the first 30 seconds of missions? If you're using an official Folk template (see above), this is already included and enabled. If you're using another build of F2, start by pasting this code at the end of your mission's init.sqm file:

Code: Select all

cutRsc ["introImage", "PLAIN", 1];
Next, paste this into your mission's description.ext file, inside the block of code that begins class RscTitles {

Code: Select all

class introImage
  {	
    idd = -1;	
    movingEnable = false;
    duration = 30;
    fadein = 0;
    name = "introImage"; 
    controls[] = {"image1"};

    class image1: RscPicture
    {	
      x = 0;
      y = -0.05;
      w = 0.3;
      h = 0.3;
      text = "folk.paa";
    };
  };
Finally, download this file and put in the root of your mission folder (where you find init.sqm and description.ext):

[The extension paa has been deactivated and can no longer be displayed.]

Is there a particular style of folk mission?
In a traditional Folk mission, the Folk platoon is meant to represent a guerrilla or insurgent force type, operating without high tech equipment or significant combined arms support.

Which means?
Practically, we're more likely to be shooting at angry helicopters than riding them into battle.

Does this mean I can't submit a BLUFOR mission?
BLUFOR missions are also welcome. All we ask is that you don't focus on long-range engagements by optics-equipped BLUFOR infantry with plenty of tanks and attack helicopters in support. The mission should be a challenge, not a 'brown people shooting simulator'. For example, if you give the players a few IVFs (e.g. Warriors), please give the enemy some SPG-9s.

How do I get my mission onto the server?
Ask a host to help you.

Can I get some help testing my mission?
Of course! Grab some fellow guests from the folk IRC channel, or start a thread in the forum and arrange a test session. The server is always available and we'll try to support you as much as we can.

Re: Writing missions for folk

Posted: Sun Aug 15, 2010 4:58 pm
by fer
What was it that Housemaster wrote about his first mission for folk?
Demonstrating a perfect understanding of the ideal folk mission, he wrote:
housemaster wrote:i tried to keep it to the "we all die" standard
:hist101: