Hi, Everybody.

I want to have two different room descriptions. One, a rather lengthy description for when the player first enters the room, or any time thereafter that they request the long version. Then, a shorter description that will run if the player enters the room again. Kind of like the 'look at' and 'examine' differences for objects.

This is for use with v4, if that makes a difference.

Thanks!

Alf

Create the short description as the room's actual description. Then create a custom task that moves the player to the room in question and displays the longer description. Provided the task is non-repeatable, the first time the player enters the room they'll get the long description and subsequent times the short one.

Wrong site, davidw; you're thinking in ADRIFT.

Hi, David. Thanks for the quick reply. I'll give that a try. - Alf

Freak wrote:Wrong site, davidw; you're thinking in ADRIFT.

I'm sure the same basic thing works in Quest as well, ralph.

You can do this using a conditional script together with a flag. In QDK your script should look like this:

If the flag "entered kitchen" is set Then Print "This is just the kitchen. I shan't bore you with the details a second time." Else {
Set the flag "entered kitchen" to on
Print "Wow, what a fabulous kitchen! There's loads of stuff in here which I'll tell you about right now..." }

This worked perfectly, Alex.

Now, if I want the player to once again see the long description, how might I do it? I created a Text Block containing the long description, but can't seem to call it.

Thanks!

Alf

You can display a text block using the "Display a text block" command (Print category), then select the name from the list. If you're having problems with getting this working, send me the ASL file and I'll take a look into it for you.

Problem solved (with Alex's help):

Create a text block with the long description.
Create a command "show details" - with alternates if desired.
In command "show details" use: Print "#quest.lookdesc#"

Now, the first time through, the player gets the introductory text, description, hints, etc. On subsequent visits to the room, the player gets the short form. On request, "show details", you can give the player a longer description, extra hints, etc., or a repeat of the introductory text.

All is well.

Didn't there used to be a "When the player enters the room for the first time' box under the advanced tab for the room? I didn't see one in 4.0, but I can't remember if it was in the earlier version or if I'm just imagining things.

Nope...