Here is a list of changes in the coming version 6. Please note that I've not followed exactly this list.
[ Legend: ]
[ ! Important modification ]
[ + Added feature ]
[ * Improved/changed feature ]
[ - Bug fixed (we hope) ]
[!] Server improvements:
[+] Implement a chat
[+] Check for updates before connecting
[+] Show the rules that a player has choosen before starting the game
[*] Don't remove from the list once a game started, but change the player's icon
[*] Easier and faster connexion
[*] Auto close the pop-up message asking "Do you want to play with XXX" after 15 seconds.
[-] Show a special icon for player behind a firewall/proxy
[-] Handle disconnection/reconnect while on the server
[-] The game can't connect to the server if Internet Explorer is in \"Work Offline\" mode
[!] Game rules:
[*] Starting player choses randomly
[*] 1 counter/turn rules changements: The player starting the first game will play second in the next game.
[*] 2 counters/turn rules changements: Each player drop only 1 counter on it\'s first game turn
[+] Add the "special" rule:
- A counter on the last grid line makes the first line drop and all the counters move 1 line under
- Special counters provided after 10 turns and then each 5 turns (can be cumultated)
- (X) Delete the counter on witch it's dropped after 1 turn and then disapear
Goal: Remove a troublesome counter
- (2) Drop 2 neutral (white) counters in the selected column
Goal: Block opponent lines or make the grid move down
[!] New game engine
[!] Console modifications:
[+] Echo the chat messages in the console so you can have a chat history
[+] "GetActiveRules" command that displays the current game rules
[+] "BOSS" key F1 to F12 that instantly hides the game
[+] Game help and game rules explanation file
[+] Enable or disable sound effects option
[+] Add iPuissance 4D in the MSN/ICQ "Play With" list
[+] Paste function in the chat by pressing Ctrl + V
[*] Improved AI that supports more game rules
[*] Show current player in tray bar.
[-] Correct the system message in a "Versus a friend" game
[-] Names like "L®6" can make the game crash
[-] A timeout in a "Versus a friend" game makes the game crash
I'm trying to find the best way for you to be ever able to play with any opponent even if you're using a more secure network (firewall, proxy, lan, ...).