Keypads & numeric locks

[MirceaKitsune]

I assume this might be partly doable with map scripts already, but I haven't seen it in any mission so far. In any case, I imagine it can be implemented as a default script so mappers can use it more easily, and it would also require a few new visual assets... so I decided to make a thread suggesting this as a mainstream addition. This is partly related to my Modern Worlds topic, but a feature I'd like independently of it.

 

One thing I loved in stealth games like DeusEx is that some doors didn't use keys, but instead have keypads, on which you must type a code made out of several digits to activate them. Such codes are found in notes around the world, and in many cases the player has to remember them mentally, which can be a nice challenge.

 

Now since TDM takes place in a steampunk theme, I'm obviously not suggesting any digital screens or something that would break its atmosphere. There can however be mechanical numeric locks, similar to those found on suitcases. Something like this... only more rusty and potentially as a panel instead of a lock:

 

 

 

 

As for how it would work: Numeric panels can be placed anywhere on the map as an entity. When used, they present the player with a form, containing a given number of digits (usually 3, 4, or 5, depending on lock strength). Once the player sets each to the correct number, the mechanism can trigger any event... typically a locked door becoming unlocked or opening. I'm not sure if the existing lockpicks should be able to pick such mechanisms as well, or if this should introduce a new item item for hacking numeric locks, or if they shouldn't be hackable at all.

 

Is this a feature worth considering, acceptable, and wanted by anyone else? I think it would be fun to have to find codes in letters, or even sneak up on NPC's as they talk to hear an useful combination.

[SteveL]

Is this a feature worth considering, acceptable, and wanted by anyone else? I think it would be fun to have to find codes in letters, or even sneak up on NPC's as they talk to hear an useful combination.

 

It's all of the above, and it's already supported and used in lots of maps

[Airship Ballet]

Ah, ninjad, but yeah there are plenty of in-world combo locks controlled by a script, probably all derivatives of Fidcal's combo lock script. They're physical objects controlled by physical buttons, which I prefer to the very flat GUI keypads you get in most games. Here's the example I was going to give of my FM, though it's been done before and most likely better at that.

[MirceaKitsune]

Aha... nice! I played about 10 TDM missions so far but didn't see any numerical locks, so I need to keep downloading them missions It does however look like a custom and somewhat complex script is required, and that this isn't something a lot of doors around the place will use (like it's the case in DX)... but I need to finish up on my mission list to know for sure.