GamePlan: real-time strategy planning for FPS, RTS and MMO gamers

[GPLive]

I'd love to introduce our new app for iOS and Android.

It's designed for gamers to collaboratively discuss strategy and tactics with their team in real-time. It works great with any FPS, RTS and MMO games.

It's available now on iTunes for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch: http://itunes.apple.com/app/gameplan/id503395878?mt=8
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.DesignerApps.GamePlan

Here is a quick video of it in action: http://bit.ly/gpdemo
And there's much more info on the features on our website: http://www.gameplanlive.com (http://www.gameplanlive.com/)

If you have any questions I would be happy to answer.

Cheers, Mark

[Kornman00]

Needs more PC/Mac version. Mobile devices may work great for console gamers, but PC gamers want to PC.

Especially when they blow all their money on a high-end PC and don't have ~500$ left over for an iPad :mech2:

e: Try talking to the business guys at Valve about putting this on Steam...maybe they'll make an exception for this (being an app) since it's specifically about games.

[GPLive]

Hehe, I take your point about the money thing!
My argument is that you want this tool on a separate device from your main machine, so you aren't having to swap between 'views'.

A PC/Mac version is a possibility in future if there is a demand though. But would you have a laptop next to you whilst on a PC gaming? A phone or tablet is much more flexible IMO.

[PlasbianX]

Definitely gonna try this out. (Android version -> Droid Razr Maxx)

EDIT: I think one thing that's already a turn off, is the fact that the maps have to be submitted to you guys first. Mind you, Its good that you have maps for the most popular games so far, but I think you'd get more people if you were able to submit your own custom maps and share them with friends so you could plan that way.

[Kornman00]

Hehe, I take your point about the money thing!
My argument is that you want this tool on a separate device from your main machine, so you aren't having to swap between 'views'.

A PC/Mac version is a possibility in future if there is a demand though. But would you have a laptop next to you whilst on a PC gaming? A phone or tablet is much more flexible IMO.
Indeed, it's more flexible. However, I'm currently stuck with a 2nd Gen iTouch, which can only run iOS 2.1 and lower. I don't have the disposable income to get an iOS or Android tablet. I do, however, have multiple machines (esp. laptops).

Going through Steam (if they approve), you'll have access to their sales system plus their customer base, plus their SDK (which includes VoIP IIRC, been a while since I looked into it). So you'll be hitting users right where it hurts feels good: Steam.

Also, you should look into Kinect support in hypothetical future PC versions. Not only for doing battle plans projected on big monitors (I'm thinking e-sports), but for voice commands too.

[Ifafudafi]

So you'll be hitting users right where it hurts feels good: Steam.

like you'd know, I'd bet you've never had a girl so much as touch your Steam

Also needs Tribes: Ascend maps, shit looks neat though

E: Although admittedly I am a bit curious as to why you'd adveritse on this zombie of a community

[neuro]

desperation.

[GPLive]

Definitely gonna try this out. (Android version -> Droid Razr Maxx)

EDIT: I think one thing that's already a turn off, is the fact that the maps have to be submitted to you guys first. Mind you, Its good that you have maps for the most popular games so far, but I think you'd get more people if you were able to submit your own custom maps and share them with friends so you could plan that way.

Hi - thanks for your edit. Can I ask how you got this impression, as I may need to reword something!!

You can EITHER share maps you import from your photo album instantly with your group (the app will transmit the map to everyone in the session and it will then be kept on each users device in a 'custom' list for next time.

OR if you want to include a new map in the actual MapLocker (so that you and everyone else that uses it can download it), you can submit it via the website where we check it and apply the right graphical effect (so they look good quality and are zoomable like the others).

Cheers ;)

EDIT: From the FAQ page on website:-
Q. How do I add maps for games not in the MapLocker?
A. Simply save the map image to your device photo library, then start a new map and tap the 'FROM PHOTO ALBUM' button to choose the image. This will instantly be transmitted to anyone in the current session automatically. You can also send the maps for approval to us for inclusion into the app MapLocker. Just send them by email or use the map submission form.

[GPLive]

Indeed, it's more flexible. However, I'm currently stuck with a 2nd Gen iTouch, which can only run iOS 2.1 and lower. I don't have the disposable income to get an iOS or Android tablet. I do, however, have multiple machines (esp. laptops).

Going through Steam (if they approve), you'll have access to their sales system plus their customer base, plus their SDK (which includes VoIP IIRC, been a while since I looked into it). So you'll be hitting users right where it hurts feels good: Steam.

Also, you should look into Kinect support in hypothetical future PC versions. Not only for doing battle plans projected on big monitors (I'm thinking e-sports), but for voice commands too.


Indeed, it's more flexible. However, I'm currently stuck with a 2nd Gen iTouch, which can only run iOS 2.1 and lower. I don't have the disposable income to get an iOS or Android tablet. I do, however, have multiple machines (esp. laptops).

Going through Steam (if they approve), you'll have access to their sales system plus their customer base, plus their SDK (which includes VoIP IIRC, been a while since I looked into it). So you'll be hitting users right where it hurts feels good: Steam.

Also, you should look into Kinect support in hypothetical future PC versions. Not only for doing battle plans projected on big monitors (I'm thinking e-sports), but for voice commands too.

Ah shame, there were some connectivity things that required a newer OS version unfortunately.

Thanks for the suggestions. Will certainly have a talk with Steam and quite easy to put on Mac store - we would just need to make it work with mice ;)

I think voice control is a bit of a way off though hehe. Even the big boys can't get that right yet (Siri cough cough).

I will be attending a few LAN events where I hope a couple of tourneys are going to be run using it, so yeah big screen projector could be a nice idea too so everyone can see what the commander is dictating!

Thanks again for the comments :)

[GPLive]

like you'd know, I'd bet you've never had a girl so much as touch your Steam

Also needs Tribes: Ascend maps, shit looks neat though

E: Although admittedly I am a bit curious as to why you'd adveritse on this zombie of a community

All maps are submitted by players originally, so I would need someone to find and send the Tribes maps via the form on the website (or email). I expect there are loads of games that should be in there / will be eventually!

Didn't realise this was a zombie community - seems pretty nice to me! Well, the site came up well in Google for my search term of 'multiplayer gamers forum', so can't be that bad. I only launched fully last night (Android came on-line) so I guess I am desperate to get the word out now (I've been working on this for more than a year), but I'm not desperate in the way Neuro suggests yet :p

Anyway if you guys want to try it PM me for a promo code so you can check it out risk free.

[Limited]

Hello

Firstly very nice looking app, I feel it wouldnt suit my style of gameplay as I'm a casual FPS style gamer, I'm not in any clans at the moment so I don't really need to strategize the way I play. Like Kornman said if you can approach Steam and tap into their competitive gamer group you'd be onto a windfall.

I am a sort of app developer too, and I was wondering how many people are in the GamePlan team (or is it just you as sole developer)?

May I suggest you put more screenshots onto your website? The app is heavily visual based, the major feature is you draw on the map, use the icons etc. I really feel you want to be jamming that down the users throat by having a large set of screenshots showcasing the app. The video you have is very nice but sometimes a set of screenshots will do wonders alongside it.


I'e noticed a typo-ish error on your website by the way:

Q. 1
A. You must have the edit menu open to make changes to your drawing layer. If the menu is closed you are in view mode, so you can more easily pan the map with single finger and zoom with pinch.

You've cut off the question.

[GPLive]

Hello

Firstly very nice looking app, I feel it wouldnt suit my style of gameplay as I'm a casual FPS style gamer, I'm not in any clans at the moment so I don't really need to strategize the way I play. Like Kornman said if you can approach Steam and tap into their competitive gamer group you'd be onto a windfall.

I am a sort of app developer too, and I was wondering how many people are in the GamePlan team (or is it just you as sole developer)?

May I suggest you put more screenshots onto your website? The app is heavily visual based, the major feature is you draw on the map, use the icons etc. I really feel you want to be jamming that down the users throat by having a large set of screenshots showcasing the app. The video you have is very nice but sometimes a set of screenshots will do wonders alongside it.


I'e noticed a typo-ish error on your website by the way:


You've cut off the question.

Hi Limited - thanks for your advice and spotting the error in FAQ's (actually it was just a repetition of a question above that I forgot to delete!)

Re screenshots - I will do that - thanks for the tip.

I am the designer and I worked with 1 coder for nearly a year to create it. We had some input from specialists within the company for some of the server tech but basically 2 of us made it. It looked simple on paper but we had many obstacles to overcome on the way - it's pretty complex behind the scenes to get it to work smoothly for users with sharing maps etc.

Appreciate it wouldn't be of interest to you if you are not really in any teams, but if you do know of anyone that may be interested I'd really appreciate you sending them a link to the site. Thanks muchly!

[Limited]

Would it be possible to get 2 codes for me to test it with a friend (he has iPad).

[GPLive]

Would it be possible to get 2 codes for me to test it with a friend (he has iPad).

PM sent ;)
Thanks.

[Limited]

Requires 5.1, I'll have to give you a review in a few weeks, cant update phone at moment.

[Kornman00]

I recently got GPL for my "new" iPad2, and I just submitted the overhead views for the Halo Wars maps. Hope to get to use these soon :)

[GPLive]

I recently got GPL for my "new" iPad2, and I just submitted the overhead views for the Halo Wars maps. Hope to get to use these soon :)

Great - thanks for that Kornman! Maps now available in the RTS category in MapLocker :)
I'd love to hear how you get on with it and whether it helps you win! :D

[Amit]

Pretty sweet app. I tried it out on iPad and iPhone. I just can't get anyone else to use it

[GPLive]

Pretty sweet app. I tried it out on iPad and iPhone. I just can't get anyone else to use it

Hi Amit - thanks for that :)

Why can't you get anyone else? Is it they are not interested, or just being slackers?

[Kornman00]

Great - thanks for that Kornman! Maps now available in the RTS category in MapLocker :)
I'd love to hear how you get on with it and whether it helps you win! :D
Luckily I play HW with someone who an iOS whore, so we should see usage out of this, thanks

I also recently submitted maps for Halo3. Since it has Halo-related content in it now, I also made a post (http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1137183) on halo.bungie.org to help spread the word :)

[GPLive]

Luckily I play HW with someone who an iOS whore, so we should see usage out of this, thanks

I also recently submitted maps for Halo3. Since it has Halo-related content in it now, I also made a post (http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1137183) on halo.bungie.org to help spread the word :)

Thanks so much!! I sent an email in return to check something with you.

Just a bit of preview news for you all in what we have planned for the next update... :)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
GamePlan 1.1


ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Added optional grid overlay (the most requested feature is here already!)
Added NATO standard symbology into 2 extra icon categories (22 'friendly' markers and 22 'hostile' equivalents).
Also added help screen so you can learn the meanings of the NATO icons.
Increased room limit to 16 players and added 4 more ink colours. (this allows 3 teams of 5 and a commander for example). NOTE: All users will need this version to connect to the same session.
Added 'clear all' button (clear your canvas in a single action)
Added 'drag delay' slider (allows reduction of pick-up time to zero for quicker editing)
Added map version check (we can update the maps and you get notified of new versions)
Delete individual saved maps (to save space on your device)
Android: Added 'quit app' functionality to the software back button (closes app fully from memory)
TWEAKS & BUG FIXES:

Polished behaviour of waypoint tool
Changed line and shape handles to white colour
Fixed incorrect link in email
Added version number overlay (now 1.1)
Android: Fix to fast-app switching issue
Android: Tweak to list hit areas
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Amit]

Why can't you get anyone else? Is it they are not interested, or just being slackers?

I only play games on PC, so the crowd that I regularly play BF3 with would rather have the maps on a secondary screen or not at all. Nobody really wants to have to own a multi-hundred dollar tablet just to use the app. It's fine for me because I can just grab my sister's iPad whenever she's home, but others the others are not so fond of using a map app on their small Android or iOS devices.

I told them about running the app on PC using an android app phone emulator, but they begrudge the effort it takes to do that. So it's a little bit of column A and a little bit of column B. They aren't all that interested and they are somewhat slackers. Heh, it won't stop me from pressing it upon them. They wonder why we have lost every clan scrim so far. Nobody doubts that we lack coherence to our plans, but still the effort is lacking even with regular "practice" sessions. Our BF3 events leader is a down to earth guy who is more serious and is committed to good teamplay so I may be able to sway him into convincing the others that this is an essential piece of software.

[GPLive]

Hi all - just quick update for you and notice to say that it's the last day of my 80% sale so get in quick if you want to save some cash!

General progress update - PC version is top priority next but we have this happening right now:-

We had a great "official launch" at the Multiplay Insomnia pro-gaming event at the weekend (http://iseries.multiplay.co.uk/i45/).


Got loads of great feedback and loads of ideas for the future too!


Here is a video interview I did: http://youtu.be/UvzQ8DaTT1Y (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvzQ8...endscreen&NR=1)


And I have sponsored a COD4 team that are going to be using the app for planning and co-ordination and in discussions with another few potential partners, both as users and technical partners.


Starting to get some nice 5 Star reviews in the app stores:-
"This is not just for the competitive gamer. A big boom for the casual player. Especially those that are interested in tactics and strategy. You will be better organized and able to execute your objectives faster and easier. Your game play will improve. Game developer is lighting fast with answers to questions. Little hard to use with an iPhone, but absolutely fantastic on a tablet"


"Was down at I 45 a LAN event in the uk saw the app and played around with it just got home and first thing I be done is get all the clan to get app and use it to coordinate our attack on the fly as we play bf 3 and sc 2 a must have for any pc gamer 5 stars !!!"


Whats new:-


We've added all the HD World Of Tanks maps into MapLocker.
Same for Halo 3 and Halo Wars
Added some Tribes: Ascend maps
Got an arrangement with End of Nations to get the official maps in for their BETA.
Added Counter Strike competitive de_maps


And new for v1.10 (in about 2 weeks):-
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
GamePlan 1.1


ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Optional grid overlay (the most requested feature is here already!)
NATO standard symbology into 2 extra icon categories (22 'friendly' markers and 22 'hostile' equivalents).
New help screen so you can learn the meanings of the NATO icons.
Increased room limit to 16 players and added 4 more ink colours. (this allows 3 teams of 5 and a commander for example). NOTE: All users will need this version to connect to the same session.
'Clear All' button (clear your canvas in a single action)
'Drag Delay' slider (allows reduction of pick-up time to zero for quicker editing)
Map version check (we can update the maps and you get notified of new versions)
Ability to delete individual saved maps (to save space on your device)
Android: Added 'quit app' functionality to the software back button (closes app fully from memory)


TWEAKS & BUG FIXES:
Polished behaviour of waypoint tool
Changed line and shape handles to white colour
Fixed incorrect link in email
Added version number overlay (now 1.1)
Android: Fix to fast-app switching issue
Android: Tweak to list hit areas


---------------------------------------------------------------------------

I hope you have had time to look at it in any more detail - still time to get suggestions in for the next version so feedback would be great :)

Cheers,
Mark

[Llama Juice]

The link to your video interview is broken. It's the same broken link you pasted to nearly every forum you've put this on :/

[GPLive]

The link to your video interview is broken. It's the same broken link you pasted to nearly every forum you've put this on :/

Doh!! Thanks very much for letting me know!!

Fixed link above. This is it: http://youtu.be/UvzQ8DaTT1Y

[GPLive]

Hi guys,
Version 1.1 is available now through all app stores! (Google Play, Amazon, iTunes).

We added a lot of the great features suggested by people that we could get in to this version (see post above). Next step is going to be a bigger leap so we are working on this already in the background.

Please let me know what you think if you have tried it, and I would really appreciate a review in the app stores (the new version will have blanked out the reviews that come up up-front, so need to get them again for this iteration!).

If you want to keep up to date with other changes and additions of maps etc to GamePlan, please follow my twitter: http://www.twitter.com/gameplanlive (I won't spam it)
Thanks all ;)
Mark

[GPLive]

I only play games on PC, so the crowd that I regularly play BF3 with would rather have the maps on a secondary screen or not at all. Nobody really wants to have to own a multi-hundred dollar tablet just to use the app. It's fine for me because I can just grab my sister's iPad whenever she's home, but others the others are not so fond of using a map app on their small Android or iOS devices.

I told them about running the app on PC using an android app phone emulator, but they begrudge the effort it takes to do that. So it's a little bit of column A and a little bit of column B. They aren't all that interested and they are somewhat slackers. Heh, it won't stop me from pressing it upon them. They wonder why we have lost every clan scrim so far. Nobody doubts that we lack coherence to our plans, but still the effort is lacking even with regular "practice" sessions. Our BF3 events leader is a down to earth guy who is more serious and is committed to good teamplay so I may be able to sway him into convincing the others that this is an essential piece of software.

Hi Amit,
Just wondering if you had any luck getting your friends to try using GamePlan yet? :)

[Mr Buckshot]

Hehe, I take your point about the money thing!
My argument is that you want this tool on a separate device from your main machine, so you aren't having to swap between 'views'.

A PC/Mac version is a possibility in future if there is a demand though. But would you have a laptop next to you whilst on a PC gaming? A phone or tablet is much more flexible IMO.

Totally, I have a desktop as my primary and a laptop for class, and I always have it charging next to my monitor on my desk, so it's not a problem. Additionally, some games I've played really benefit from a walkthrough (Tomb Raider Underworld, god damn puzzles were never clear and I always got stuck without a walkthrough), and I'd rather have it on a separate screen rather than having to pause and access my Steam Overlay to do it.

Main issue with using a phone/tablet is finding the optimal angle to prop it at when I am gaming on my desktop so I can look at it clearly. With a laptop screen this isn't a problem.

[Amit]

Hi Amit,
Just wondering if you had any luck getting your friends to try using GamePlan yet? :)

Sry no. I've found that most people are unwilling to buy a tablet or use their small-screened smartphone :(

[GPLive]

Hi folks, got a little update for you :)

Try GamePlan now for FREE!

We are proud to introduce GamePlan version 1.2 - the strategy and tactics planning app for multiplayer gamers!

Use GamePlan before, during and after games to plan your team strategy in real-time in a revolutionary and intuitive new way. GamePlan will give you a personal overview of your game, allowing you to be more organised, more dangerous and have more fun!

There are hundreds of maps built-in for the main PC games such as Starcraft 2, Battlefield 3, League of Legends, Call of Duty series, DayZ, World of Tanks, Supreme Commander and MANY more. See the MAP LIST for a full run-down. (http://www.gameplanlive.com/maps )

Try it for free and see how GamePlan can revolutionise the way you play team or co-op games!

The free version is fully functional when offline, so you can download maps, play with all the tools, get a feel for the user interface and see what it's all about.

The free version can also connect to a room hosted by the full version, so it will act as a 'VIEWER' forever, meaning you can join your team for free and view the edits and discussions.

If you decide you like it and can see the exciting benefits it can give your gaming, and you want to draw back to your team when in an online session, you can instantly unlock the app to access all features, including the ability to host rooms up to 16 players and full collaborative drawing tools.

Currently the full version and the 'IAP unlock' are at 50% discount ($1.99 / £1.49 / 1.99 euro).

Here are the App Store links:-

FREE VERSION:
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/app/gameplan/id543730197?mt=8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.DesignerApps.GamePlanIAP
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/DesignerApps-GamePlan-strategy-tactics/dp/B008S9XEXU

FULL VERSION:
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/app/gameplan/id503395878?mt=8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.DesignerApps.GamePlan
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/DesignerApps-GamePlan-strategy-gamers-tool/dp/B007VQL6F4
Samsung: http://www.samsungapps.com/topApps/topAppsDetail.as?productId=G00007740200

[Kornman00]

Hey look, *now* Steam is offering software downloads...

[GPLive]

Hey look, *now* Steam is offering software downloads...

Wow thanks for the heads up mate! Lets see what they say this time but this could be epic!
Fingers crossed ;)

[Kornman00]

Good luck man!

[GPLive]

Good luck man!

I've heard back from Steam already about getting the PC version of GamePlan listed with them
- not sure if I am happy or not :)

Basically, they open up the Greenlight for software in a week or so, and I have been told to submit GamePlan there when they open shop, and see if I get enough 'votes' or whatever.

I reckon I will need to get THOUSANDS of people asking for it for them to look at it, so maybe don't stand a chance!

I guess I will do a drive towards it in any way I can but any help you guys can give when the time comes would be MASSIVELY appreciated! I'll post back here when I know any more details.

Thanks for the tip though Kornman - really nice of you to think of me ;)

[Donut]

ill keep an eye out for it. youve got my vote dude.

[Kornman00]

np. Let us know when you get a GL page up. Got my vote and I'll direct my friends that way too :)

[GPLive]

We've submitted GamePlan to Steam Greenlight now!
Please help us out by voting to see it for PC and Mac on Steam.

Here's the page: http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=103404475

Anything you can do to help me spread the word and make this happen and I would be forever in your debt :)

Cheers ;)

[Limited]

Voted :)

Should be getting my new iPhone soon, so I will be able to run it assuming the code you gave me doesnt have a time limit?

[GPLive]

Voted :)

Should be getting my new iPhone soon, so I will be able to run it assuming the code you gave me doesnt have a time limit?

Thanks man!!
The codes do have a 2 week expiry if not used, so just give me a shout when you get your phone and I will send you another one. :)

[Cortexian]

Voted :)

[Amit]

Voted.

[Kornman00]

Voted

[Kornman00]

GamePlanLive coming soon to Steam for desktop PC/Mac (+ hopefully Linux)!! Huge thanks to anyone that helped by voting on Steam Greenlight! (https://twitter.com/GamePlanLive/status/324931191021129728)
.

[Donut]

HA that kicks ass. Congrats man, I'm glad I could help a bit by giving my vote.

[Amit]

Sweet. People might actually put out some effort to use it now.