Is it possible without scripting?

[TreeHugger]

Well looking at that post now, it really doesn't make sense (I should have read it through before I posted it!) but the general idea was to duplicate the object and display it over the top with a different ink effect, or semi transpency. Really, don't listen to me

Wouldn't this idea still work if you put the new object behind the original and (as long as the hotspot for the objects are in the centre) increase the new objects scale so it's slightly bigger. That way you'd get a border showing round the original object.

bit of a noob meself so I'm just guessing here

[BrashMonkey]

the way this would be done in almost any professional game would be to simply have new art for the glow that surrounds each sellected object. it can have an unselected animation and a selected animation with the glow built into the frames, or you could have the glow as a seperate object (one unique glow image per unique object that can be selected.)

I suggest that for each selectible object, you have the object itself, and a seperate active object for its glow. if you create the glow using alpha blending, then code the semi-transparency to go up and down gradually, you'd get a really nice pulsing glowing outline effect with minimal art.

I hope this helps.

[BrashMonkey]

in fact, here's an example...

press spacebar to get the glow to appear or dissapear, you can move the object around with the arrow-keys

[stillhawk]

Norway,

I have been working on a game that includes the same activity as your game, and I have exactly the same problem. I've been researching the old MMF forum for ideas. I have a couple of leads, but none of them are what we really want. Let's keep in touch and work together on this one.

If there is anything you need help with regarding the rest of your game, I would be glad to help.

stillhawk

[BrashMonkey]

did you check my example file? If not, click on the word "here's" thats underlined in my previous reply.

[stillhawk]

Hey HolyMonkey,

I did check your example. I certainly gives some glow effect. I think both Norway and I have a particular effect in mind. It can be seen in lots of Big Fish games like Azada, Prime Suspects, Huntsville and Ravenhearst Manor.

I suspect those programs used high powered 3d to produce their effects.

I used Fireworks MX 2004 to create glow around object, but it doesn't compare to the games I mentioned above.

Thanks for your idea.

stillhawk

[BrashMonkey]

any chance of you getting a screenshot? If people can see what you're after, they might have useful ideas.

[stillhawk]

I'll see what I can do about getting some screenshots of the effects.

[Norway]

Thanks HolyMonkey

Its a nice example, and I am sure i gone "snag" it for a later project. In fact i got an idea for a new game the second i tryed the example. *s*
But first i want to complete my planned one, or i gone jump from one idea to another and never complete anything.

stillhawk: Yes i am pretty sure we are trying to recreate the same effect. I have played every Hidden Object game I can find on all big portals - and this is the best i have seen. Not that i need it to be completely like that - but same sort and pattern is wanted.
With the examples i have gotten in this post, and the other post
maVado made for me i think i will manage to almost recreate it.

I just need to get the time to make the "animasion", but atm I am not home so dont have the programs i want to use. (some family crise I have to help with before i can return home).
Guess it will take 2-3 weeks before i am back home, but will get back to you stillhawk if i feel i manage to recreate it. And if you solve it before me - i would be happy if i get a tip how you did it.

[stillhawk]

Norway,

I have figured out a sparkle effect for use in your game. You will need to have MMF2 Developer however. That is what I use.

Let me know if you have Developer and want more info on this sparkle effect.