how to time actions during a level

[arfa]

I like some actions to have a time lag behind their trigger. It gives a sense of randomness and staging control. I wonder if there is a more elegant way than what I am currently doing...

eg.
object at end of path [then set] value A=1
value A = seconds-2 (ie. 2 second delay) [then do something]

This works fine if there are only one or two 'somethings' happening shortly after the trigger. Beyond a certain point user input is too variable and it gets real messy with each subsequent sequence of lagged events (puff of smoke, text bubble, falling rock, etc.) with a crazy array of variables to keep track of.

I hope this explanation of what I am doing is clear - and you have some suggestions.

[Popcorn]

You can make a timer that is uniqe for that object, which will start exactly when you want it to start.

* Object: End of path reached
- Object: Set flag 0 On

* Object: Flag 0 is On
- Object: add 1 to Alterable Value A.

* Object: Alterable value A >= 100
- Do action
- Object: Set flag 0 Off
- Object: Set alterable value A to 0

If your game is running with 50 frames per second, this should give you a two second delay.

[BackStaged]

Or simply just use the Timeline Beta Extension from LB.

[arfa]

@popcorn
I will try the flag approach - thanks.

@backstaged
I tried to find the extension on the MMF page. Can't see it. Do you have a URL? I did find "Time X" = lets you create an number of timers you want and control them independantly.
Sound good. Something else for dessert. Cheers.

[BackStaged]

You can find this extension onto the BETA release forum page of Clickteam.

It called: [Beta] Timeline ..

This extension is potentially interesting for doing that you research for.

[LB]

http://www.clickteam.com/epicenter/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=206669

Only reason it isn't released is because I am making more examples and an official help document for it. For now, until there is real help, there is some small info on FusionWiki.

[arfa]

Hey popcorn....
That works just fine. Definitely more control with this than the system I was using. I generally prefer using inbuilt processes than extensions.

thanks.

[BackStaged]

Yes LB, take your time

Because the extension is amazing but complicated (to understand), for my part at least :p

[arfa]

@popcorn
There was a small error in your lines....

* Object: End of path reached
- Object: Set flag 0 On

* Object: Flag 0 is On
>> - Do action >>.............................
- Object: add 1 to Alterable Value A.

* Object: Alterable value A >= 100
- Object: Set flag 0 Off
- Object: Set alterable value A to 0

Works well - as long as I keep track of which flag # I am on
- thanks