Welcome to the new Warlock Brawl!
We've moved to the new website and server and as you can see it's a big change. This change is a big step forward for us, as we are a lot more independent now, which will be important for the standalone. In addition, the SMF forum framework is much richer in features than the Joomla one we previously used. I am also quite acquainted with the code, so I can customize it to my heart's content. I'd like to go over some of the new features you'll see.
The old forum
If you're wondering where all the old posts went: http://warlockbrawl.com/index.php/forum/1-archived
The News board
The news board (the one this thread is posted in!) is a board for those with access to post news, which will get displayed on the front page. Threads posted in the Tournaments board will also get featured there.
The Tournaments board
This will be a bit different from our previous forum.
- Only those in the Tournament Manager membergroup are able to create threads (i.e. host tournaments). This due to the fact that thread content gets displayed on the front page. However, anyone can post replies, in fact:
- Guests are able to post in this board. You don't have to make an account to post a reply to a tournament (i.e. sign up). All that is required is a name and email address.
The Downloads board
Downloads, such as Warlock maps and tools, are listed in this board using the SMF attachment system.
BBCodes
SMF has proper bbcodes (opposed to Kunena). In addition, I've added two custom bbcodes: [spoiler] and Show spoiler
[hidden]
You can get a full list of bbcodes here although many of those listed have been disabled.
Browsing
Everyone has their way of browsing forums. However you prefer, SMF should have you covered.
- Unread posts have a "new" icon next to them. Click this icon to go to the first unread post in the thread.
- On the front page's sidebar, the most recent forum posts are listed. Hover over the link to see who wrote it and a small preview.
- On the forum's header you can find links to show all unread posts since last visit, or unread replies to threads you have started.
- If a board has unread posts in it, the logo on the left will light up. Clicking it will show all unread posts from that particular board.
- Customize how the site looks and behaves, includes enabling a quick reply option.
- ...And more.
If you are ever in doubt with any forum features, SMF has a very detailed help page.
The leveling system
The forum has a full-fledged leveling system. Posting will gain you experience. It does nothing but make you look cool right now, but I'll definitely consider adding some level-unlock features.
Coming soon
Some features that are coming soon, but I haven't finished yet, include, but are not limited to:
- A way to link a stream to your profile which will get you your own stream page on warlockbrawl, embedding your stream, and displaying a link to it on the front page when live.
- A fully integrated chat connected to your user account. Will have its own chat page but also be displayed next to streams.
- A javascript tournament bracket generator so that user accounts and profiles can be integrated with the brackets.
- Award system. Winning tournaments or other achievements give you awards with custom icons displayed on your profile.
- Changing the look of the website, this isn't a fully finished product. Expect a lot of changes to the style.
Alright I think that wraps it up, happy posting!