2009-04-27, 23:55:33
Dr.McNinja Wrote:Very good idea, as for the 'locking' method, it would have to be something like league password (less complex) so that pubs dont just take the password from hearing it or replay. Other than a password, it would require some amount of work in creating a 'lock'. One possible idea is a code that the beta tester knows how to create - based on sources such as bnet time and bnet date. Because no two games will have the same date and time, every code will be unique and no pub user will be able to re-use the code. The problem from this is potential leaking of how to create the code. I dont know if this is even possible (linking to bnet time).
As for the seperate mode to test... small things that exo adds can be created (created not limited to any mode) which is in the 'basic' mode before any modes are chosen which alter the basic mode. This means weapons, new tanks etc which are not included, can be 'turned on' in a mode for testing purposes... can any mapmakers comment on this?
Well if you don't want people to see it, you could use observer chat.
It may still be possible to see obs chat by maphacking, (I wouldn't know since I've never done it), but if you are worried about that, then the best solution is to use something similar to what you outlined
Basically what you would need is a digital signature, like RSA or something.
Here's how it would work
The game displays a long randomly generated string
The beta tester alt tabs, and opens up a standalone program, and enters in the random string, and the secret key
The program combines the key and the string mathematically to create a new string
The beta tester enters in the new string ingame
The game verifies it, and if it is correct, the game works normally; otherwise it ends.
The best part is that even if someone got their hands on the program itself, they would still need to know the secret key to make it work.
The key could be changed every version if need be.