[Suggestion]Beams

[Nord]

So, if Meridian think that this deserve new topic...

Shotguns does not draw bullets, i think that graphical "object" does not spawn... if i can say so.
Then how hard (complicate?) will it be - to draw solid fading line from shooter to target, instead of spawn "bullet object"?
Like laser, yes.
Thanks.

Maybe we could generate particles (like TFTD bubbles) and let them fade.

But some examples of how you want to use it, for which weapons, and for what purpose, would help imagine some "acceptable" solution.
But I think all solutions will look rather "cheap".

My vision of those shot - a screen moves to target, then from the shooter (most times from the screen border) to target drawed simple line of one color. Then color fades in, lets say, 0.5-2 sec.
Then applies shot animation and maybe smoke.
But... i do not know is it possible or not.
Purpose, of course, is a beam weapons.

I suppose this idea was already discussed, but maybe once again?

[Solarius Scorch]

UFO: Extraterrestrials also had no beams (only bullet sprites, just like X-Com), but the UNIMOD added them, exactly as you say.
While I consider UNIMOD a modding masterpiece, this decision wasn't that great. Beams just looked weird and not pretty.
Besides, what's the problem with bullets? Sure, lasers travel at the speed of light, but you wouldn't normally see bullets either.

[R1dO]

Also keep in mind: It is most likely that a laser capable of damage falls into the pulse category, continuous is just too weak or becomes too hot at damaging output levels.

A pulse of light is pretty similar to an extremely long but infinitesimal small rod (if i had to visualize it)

[wcho035]

Also the exit of the projectile from gun barrel in the game is not level or fell disconnected. Having a beam like that looks weird.

[Nord]

Here is gif.

[Stoddard]

I like how it was done in the first Syndicate - flash, pew, and a distinct [over]kill animation.

https://youtu.be/m4jQ2ZFvPVg?t=7149


I don't exactly like current state of things wrt lasers, but drawing red lines all over the battlescape doesn't seem a solution either.


edit: I also like carrying 3-4 miniguns