BFME2.5 - Interview with Tom8778
Tom8778 kindly agreed to give us an interview about his most recent modification, BFME 2.5. BP conducted the interview. Below is a transcript of the questions and answers.
Q: What has been most challenging about creating BFME 2.5?
A: Tom8778: Probably the balance and bug fixing. For example, putting dragons or oath breaker cavalry in-game as purchasable units makes it very hard to keep it as a balanced mod, but you’re still trying to keep the mod a fun thing to play.
Q: What has been the most enjoyable part of the experience?
A: Tom8778: Definitely either horde coding or putting new models/skins in-game. Its very rewarding seeing models/skins in-game, or seeing your new formations take shape. A good example of this is the Uruk Scouts speed formation.
Q: Do you feel the BFME2H modding community has helped you in any way?
A: Tom8778: They have helped a great deal by showing interest and support. I would not feel as keen to mod if they weren’t interested in them.
Q: What is the aim of the project?
A: Tom8778: My aim is to add everything missing from the books/films which people want. I hope to expand the game to include all of these.
Q: What are you looking forward to doing later on in the project, and why?
A: Tom8778:Definitely "evil men" or a northern faction. Mainly because I find the men of Dale, Dunedain, Easterlings and Harad all capture my imagination. Also I think hobbits will be great fun to have in-game.
Q: What is your personal favorite part of the project?
A: Tom8778: I'm starting to enjoy map making. I'm in the process of making an Osgiliath map, which I'm finding very fun. I also enjoy the online testing, as it’s great to play online with.
Q: Do you plan on creating further projects after this?
A: Tom8778: I don't have any planned, but I imagine I will start something new.
Q: If you could turn back the clock and change something with the project, what would it be?
A: Tom8778: Its very hard to think of anything but if I had to say, it would be releasing version 2.1 when I did. It seems now too soon and pointless when I did release it, as I could have finished Rohan also for the release if I'd pushed it back a month later. Something I deeply regret.
Q: What advice would you give to newer modders who are reading this?
A: Tom8778: Never be afraid, or to worry when you break stuff. You learn a lot faster that way.
Thanks to Tom8778 for the interview! Credit also goes to Valandil, who has helped out greatly in this project with skinning/modeling. Thanks!