Thank you both for the prompt and informative responses.
(09-01-2013 08:09 PM)darksun84 Wrote: You can download the sphere 2013 prerelease and the default script pack. I don't suggest to use the Sphere community pack if you just want to familiarize with scripting.
There should be no problems with two UO installation!
Also you should download Axis (the GM tool)
Thanks a lot! I will definitely download Axis (and research it). I do intend to actually maybe try a bit of scripting here and there, as I become more familiar with the system. Where is the default script release?
(09-01-2013 09:09 PM)Mordaunt Wrote: Use which ever setup method you feel most comfortable with.
2 copies of UO shouldn't conflict each other, but you do not need to install UO again. As long as you configure sphere to use whatever client you are on currently and create a razor login to point to the server you will be fine. As for CentrED, backing up your map file before you begin editing would be sufficient.
Frankly, I think I feel more comfortable with the VServerLaunch, as it is automated. I also noticed that the shard on which I play (UOForever) includes its own patch. Will this affect anything?
Regarding CentrED, would I need to back up the files and re-paste the originals into the client (and the custom files into another folder) each time I wanted to connect to the private server, then reverse the process when I want to work on the map or my server?
Finally, your (and everyone else's) answers to my initial post were quite encouraging, and many of the basic setting seem easy to configure without actually scripting. Also, @RanXerox 's post helped me think of some technical aspects of the sort of shard I desire which I had not previously considered in quite so much detail, as the changes from when I played (T2A era) to now have been drastic. I did some research into the features of various eras.
That first post was a bit vague. I have tried to form a concise, easily readable list of basic features I desire, and those I do not. I am not sure the etiquette here, and do not want to impinge upon yours (and anyone else's) generosity, or waste anyone's time, but would it be good form to post my criteria, just to give a better idea as to what it is I am trying to do? This is just basic stuff, more of a general "is this possible, and if so which is the best route to go about it." Not point by point, just in general, from someone(s) who has more perspective as to the capabilities and current state of Sphere. I have some more difficult custom stuff I want to add, but that is for much later. Just looking a the basics for now.
Again, many thanks.