BattleScribe 2.0 Released!

Current Situation

[As of writing, the current versions are as follows. Android: 2.00.12. iOS: 2.00.07. Desktop: 2.00.05]

As you're probably aware, BattleScribe 2.0 launched about two weeks ago, and we've had a bit of a shaky start. There are always going to be some issues with any big release, but this is no excuse for the series of nasty bugs and crashes, particularly on Android. This was my fault entirely, and I apologise for any issues or inconvenience you may have experienced over the last week or so.

That said, we are finally out of the woods: all known major issues are resolved and performance has improved considerably. The data community has also been hard at work updating their files for BattleScribe 2.0, so make sure you update your data regularly.

This post has been a little late as my focus has obviously been elsewhere!

If you are having trouble, I have posted solutions to problems and answers to common questions separately as FAQs, rather than making this post any longer than it needs to be. I encourage you to read and share them:

• I'm having trouble with BattleScribe 2.0!
• Why have you changed the way BattleScribe is purchased?
• Can I still use BattleScribe 1.15.x?

Coming Up

There is always more work to do of course. Currently Dropbox synchronisation on mobile can be pretty slow. I am currently working on a new approach to Dropbox file synchronisation. Consider disconnecting Dropbox for the time-being to improve loading times considerably. I will also be constantly working on fixing any existing bugs as and when I identify them. Rest assured I am on the case. Expect frequent updates - make sure you keep the app up to date for the latest fixes.

With that all said, what actually is BattleScribe 2.0, and what's changed? Brace yourself.

If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It

This is a phrase I wholeheartedly agree with. But there is a qualifier: "If it ain't broke". While BattleScribe 1.x wasn't exactly "broke", it had certainly hit the limits of what it was capable of without major rework. It was bursting at the seams.

The wargaming scene is an ever evolving and expanding beast, whether you are leading a small group of gang members through wrecked city streets or recreating entire historical battles with a cast of thousands. BattleScribe has always striven to be a universal tool that covers all situations, and must have the room to expand to support future developments in this great hobby of ours.

When I first started writing BattleScribe back in 2010, the wargaming landscape was a simpler place. Since then it has exploded in scope and complexity, and the original assumptions underpinning BattleScribe's design no longer hold true. The data community have had to work harder and harder to find elaborate ways to work around BattleScribe's limitations when creating their files.

It was time to rethink things.

2.0 Is Born

Some time in early 2015, I began work on what was then going to be version 1.16.00. The core aim was to overhaul the data format and core systems in order to expand the scope of what BattleScribe was capable of supporting and address the needs of the data community. The data editing tools would be reworked to support this.

It soon became clear however, that the nature of the changes required to achieve these aims would have wide-ranging knock-on effects throughout the app. It would not be possible to update individual systems in isolation. What was needed was a step back to rethink the overall design of the app as a whole.

This new holistic approach provided the opportunity to review every aspect of BattleScribe. It was time to brush away the cobwebs left by years of incremental updates, and work to refashion the app into a platform that can expand and evolve with the wargaming world for years to come.

This was going to be BattleScribe 2.0.

Sounds Neat. So What's Changed?

Almost every line of code in all versions of the app has been rewritten, reorganised, refactored or removed. All major systems have been redesigned and rebuilt. BattleScribe is reborn. But what does this mean for you?

When it comes to creating army lists, not much has changed on the surface. The user interface on all platforms is pretty much the same as it ever was in terms of placement of buttons, navigation and so on. If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? The mobile versions have had a new coat of paint and now look and behave as modern mobile apps should.

There is one new feature for BattleScribe supporters: Quickview. This is the ability to open rosters for viewing without loading all the data files. Other than this, the first priority was to ensure that all features from the previous version are present and correct. Going forward, you can expect new features and functionality, expanding on the groundwork laid down in BattleScribe 2.0.

The changes for data authors on the other hand, are huge and wide-ranging. The data format and editing tools have been redesigned to improve ease of use, efficiency and quality of life. This should benefit everyone by way of higher quality data files, improved support for a wider array of game systems, and faster data updates.

I encourage anyone interested in data authoring to try the new Data Editor! You should find it a much more powerful, intuitive and pleasant experience.

Android and iOS

• User interface redesigned.
• New roster creation flow so it's not all crammed onto one screen.
• Supporter: Quickview rosters without needing to load the data files.
• Supporter: Redesigned dice tool.

Desktop

• Added keyboard shortcuts for new, save and save as.
• Supporter: Quickview rosters without needing to load the data files.
• Old Game System Editor and Catalogue Editor tools are now combined into one Data Editor. which handles both types of file.
• Data Editor: Redesigned edit panel is consistent for different element types.
• Data Editor: Added keyboard shortcuts for cut, copy and paste.
• Data Editor: Added right click option to "follow link".

Engine & Data Format

• Game System and Catalogue file formats are unified. All data elements (e.g. Forces, Entries, Rules, Profiles...) can now exist in either file type.
• Elements in a Game System file are available in a Catalogue.
• Shared elements in a Game System can be linked to from any Catalogue files, so global elements can be shared by all Catalogues.
• Entry elements (ForceEntry, CategoryEntry, SelectionEntry, SelectionGroupEntry...) are unified and work in a consistent way.
• Info elements (Profile, Rule...) are unified and work in a consistent way.
• New CostType element so you can represent games with multiple "currencies". 
• The CostType element can be used to name "currencies" - you are no longer restricted to just "points".
• Entry element min/max fields are replaced by a Constraint query element so you only need to apply constraints that actually matter (or omit them entirely).
• Modifers can be used to change more fields and work in a consistent way between the different elements they are attached to.
• Modifier repeat fields are replaced by a Repeat query element, so modifiers can have multiple repeats.
• Query elements (Condition, Repeat, Constraint...) have been unified and all work in a consistent and logical way.
• Query elements are much more powerful and customizable, with more control over scope and target elements.
• Link elements can have the same Modifiers that their target can have.
• More elements can now have "book" fields (book, page...).
• Probably more I can't remember...

BattleScribe 1.13.12 For iOS Released!

This release brings the recent updates to the Android and desktop versions to iOS. Yes - that means Dropbox! So now Dropbox is integrated across all platforms, your rosters and data can follow you no matter what devices you have. Wrote up your list on a PC? Well it's already available on your iPhone when you get to the tournament.

Release Notes

• Dropbox integration! Share your data files and rosters between your mobile devices and computers. You can link to your Dropbox account from the menu in Manage Data. 
• Reduced amount of data file checking that's done (less loading dialogs!). 
• Data file caching added to speed up file loading/updating and Dropbox uploading/downloading 
• Added button on About screen to show the "What's New" popup. 
• Mostly removed nasty-looking custom dialog boxes and loading screens. 
• Import data files from other apps or shared on a website by clicking on them. 
• If BattleScribe finds a broken/corrupted data file or roster, it will backup and delete it, preventing crashes. 
• Improved error handling and stability. 
• Bug fixes.

BattleScribe 1.13.04 Available on iOS!

This latest version contains some major (and long time coming) bug fixes and brings the iOS version into line with what's currently available on Android and the desktop. There's also some user interface improvements and support for the iPhone 5's bigger screen, giving you a bit more room when editing your roster.

Looking a little nicer

You'll also be glad to hear that I've finally nailed the "random crashing" issue that has been plaguing the free version on iOS for some time. It was a tough bug to track down, but it's finally been squashed - rejoice! This has been a real frustration for many users and has contributed to some (deserved) poor ratings on iTunes. If you're pleased with the fix, I'd love to see your feedback with an iTunes review - hopefully BattleScribe is now worthy of a higher rating. If you previously gave up on it due to the crashes, perhaps now is time to give it another try...

If you experience any other crashing issues please do let me know via the website and I'll get right on it.

Here's the full change list:

• Fixed "random crash" issue that was causing a lot of people frustration. Hooray!
• User interface updated to provide more space when editing your roster.
• Added support for the larger screen on the iPhone 5.
• Relevant book and page references included when viewing/printing a roster (as long as the data files include this information).
• Data file author name, contact details and website for your current files can be seen in the About box (as long as the data files include this information).
• Using a link to a ".bsr" repository file as a repository URL will be handled correctly - the data is imported from the file and any URLs it includes will be added to your list.
• Clicking a link to a repository will allow you to open it in BattleScribe and set it up automatically for you (as long as it's a repository that's created with v1.13.04).
• Added a "What's New" popup to keep you up to date with changes/new features - shown each time BattleScribe updates.
• Added occasional (monthly) prompt to remind you to check for new data files.
• Other bug fixes.

On The Radio Again (and other news)

After being stricken by Father Nurgle's blessing and then indulging in huge amounts of food and whisky over the festive season, I fell into a state of hibernation (read: laziness) for a while there. But never fear! Myself and BattleScribe are still alive! Here's some news.

First up, you have another chance to listen to my drivel via your audio-holes. The fine folks over at Noobhammer Radio grabbed me for a quick interview which is up on their site now. I had an awesome time (though I suspect they regret the entire ordeal) and I highly recommend giving them a listen - along with the Of Dice And Men podcast they also produce. A word of warning though: podcast-induced laughter will get you some strange looks in public, and plays merry hell with your brushstrokes...

Here's a link to the episode, and my hearty thanks to Noobhammer's Nate and Jason for having me on!

In other news, I've finally gotten around to finishing off version 1.13.04 for iDevices and have submitted it to Apple. With luck it'll be available sometime next week. Other than my laziness holding me up, I also wanted to get a couple of extra bits and pieces fixed, so it's taken a little longer than usual to get it finished. Here's the major bits that'll be in the release (I'll post full release notes when it becomes available).

• Fixed the "random crash" issue that's been plaguing it for a while - this bug has taken some time to hunt down, but I think I've finally resolved it.
• Support for the iPhone 5's  bigger screen.
• Some layout improvements to provide more space when editing your roster.
• The same stuff included in the v1.13.04 release for Android and desktop (see previous post).

Finally, I'm working on catching up with emails and forum posts at the moment. I think I've responded to pretty much all of them now, but if you're still waiting for a response please do contact me - you can use the "Send Email" link that's now on the website.

Happy gaming, and a belated happy new year :)

BattleScribe 1.13.03 Available On iOS

Apple have now approved v1.13.03 and it's now in the App Store - get those update-fingers clicking ;)

This update contains additional data sharing options, and it's easier to set up repositories.

• You can now include all your data files and repository URLs when sharing BattleScribe by email - give it a go to help your friends get going with BattleScribe. 
• Clicking a repository file sent to you by email will allow you to open it in BattleScribe, which will import all data and repository URLs for you automatically.
• Clicking a link to a repository file on a website also give you the option to let BattleScribe automatically import it.

BattleScribe 1.13.02b Available For iOS

Apple have finally approved version 1.13.02b and it's now available in the App Store! Sorry it's taken so long - once I've submitted to iTunes, it's out of my hands until they get around to reviewing it (usually a week or so...).

This version contains a major bug fix where in some cases nothing would show up for you to select for your list (notably a large selection of Warhammer Fantasy catalogues). This was because for some catalogue files the process of upgrading them to the 1.13.xx file format would eat the contents of the file and break it. Very nasty.

Important: 
If you have experienced this bug, and you were unable to see anything to choose for your army you will need to delete your data files and re-download them from your repository. Go to "Manage Data", click the menu and choose "Delete all data". Once this is done, click "Update Data" again to get your files back. Your new files will be properly updated to the 1.13.xx format and all should be well.

Sorry I let this one get through. File format updates are one of the biggest changes BattleScribe can go through, and it can be a bit of a rocky road. I'd tested many data files to make sure the process worked, but evidently I missed this particular case. My apologies if it's caused you any issues.

Full Change List:

• Fixed bug where some old data files were not being properly upgraded
• Prevented categories showing up if they contain nothing to select
• Fixed crash when using multiple catalogues (ie allies) in some cases
• Fixed crash when using catalogues with deeply nested shared items
• Fixed bug where data files with accented characters (ó, ñ etc) would break

If you find anything else that's amiss, please don't hesitate to let me know. You can leave a comment on this post or in the forums, or catch me on Google+, Twitter or Facebook. I'm also available via email: feedback [at] battlescribe [dot] net.

If this has resolved your problem, or you're just a fan of BattleScribe on iOS, please do leave a review on iTunes!

BattleScribe 1.13.00b Released - With Allies Support!

Update: Apple finally approved the free version for iOS, so that's now available for you iDevice people out there :)

---

Well the big day has finally arrived - after three months or so hard labour, BattleScribe 1.13.00b is finally here! Adding support for allies has been a big job, requiring changes to how BattleScribe fundamentally works, hence the long development time. On top of that, I've added a much demanded feature from data file authors: shared items. This will make it much easier for the authors to create quality data files, thus benefiting the entire community.

The two highest voted items on UserVoice in one fell swoop :)

This update affects all versions: Desktop, Android and iOS. If you like it, I'd really appreciate a review on the iTunes / Google Play app stores!

Note 1: This update involves a major file format upgrade. This means that the first time you load up BattleScribe it may take quite a while for your existing files to be updated, depending on how much data you have. Please be patient! It only needs to do this once.

Note 2: BattleScribe has become more strict about data file formats - some old files that used to be OK may no longer be valid. If you create files or host repositories I strongly suggest opening all of your files with the new version's editors and fixing any errors that are flagged. Once you're happy recreate your repository with data indexer to make sure it's all in order. This will really help prevent users of your repository from having problems.

Note 3: If you experience strange behaviour, it could be because of data problems mentioned in note 2 above. The first thing to try would be to delete all your data files (on mobile, the menu in the Manage Data screen allows you to do this) and re-download them from your repositories.

Here's the full list of changes:

All Versions

• Added allies support (a roster can be created with multiple catalogue / game type combinations)
• Added ability to create "shared" entries, entry groups, rules and profiles in catalogues, and then reference / link to them throughout the catalogue without repeating yourself. This should make life a lot easier for data file authors
• Improved modifiers / conditions, supporting the shared items

iOS (iPhone / iPod / iPad)

• Added shiny new retina graphics and icons
• Long-clicking selections now allows you to duplicate, remove or individually view the selection
• Added extra options in the Manage Data screen to allow you to share your repository URLs or delete all data files (in case of problems)
• Rules/profiles now properly shown when viewing the roster
• Fixed crash when clicking on the row of a "single selection" (rather than the button on the right)
• Fixed "invalid attribute namespace..." crash when importing from repositories
• Fixed bug where some catalogue conditions wouldn't be properly evaluated
• Other small UI improvements and bug fixes

Android

• Added new high-resolution (and some low-resolution) icons and graphics to support different screen densities
• Added extra options in the Manage Data screen to allow you to share your repository URLs or delete all data files (in case of problems)
• Other UI improvements and bug fixes

Desktop

• Minor UI improvements - just tidied things up a bit
• Improvements to the data file editors so they detect and flag more possible data file errors

Free Version of BattleScribe Mobile Now Available for iOS!

Rejoice! The free version of BattleScribe mobile for iPhone/iPad/iPod has been approved and is now available in the iTunes Appstore!

Enjoy :)

BattleScribe For iPhone, iPod and iPad Released!

Finally it's here! BattleScribe Mobile Pro has been approved and is now available in the iTunes Appstore!

Unfortunately the free version was rejected because of the way it linked to the pro version in the store... I'm disappointed I can't offer a free version right away, but there you have it. I'll work on making the changes I need to, and then resubmit it. Keep an eye on here/Twitter/Google+ and I'll announce when it becomes available if you'd prefer to wait.

For you iPad users, I haven't yet made a proper tablet UI. It's something I want to do, but I felt it was important to get something released sooner rather than later. Actually I need to do a UI for Android tablets too, and I'll need to have a good think about how to make good use of the larger screen.

Anyway, happy days. I know there's a lot of people who've been waiting for this for ages, so I'm glad it's finally come together :)