BtB PBEM Tournament
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
For an extensive explanation of PBEM play, check out the PBEM Primer.
1. How do I play BTB over the internet using an electronic aide?
You’ll need to create an ACTS account to handle the die rolls and card dealing in an impartial way. ACTS does not track the movement of units on the map however so most players use Cyberboard which is another utility that keeps an electronic record of the map and units. You can of course, set up a physical game and use that to track the unit positions. (All of these utilities are free.)
2. How do I sign up for ACTS?
Go to http://acts.warhorsesim.com/newuser.asp and provide the requested information. (Please use your real name as your user ID as it makes it simplifies things for event administrators.)
3. Where can I get Cyberboard? How do I get the newest Cyberboard gamebox for BtB?
Go to http://cyberboard.brainiac.com/ and download CB version 3.0. You will need a gamebox for any game you wish to play including BtB. To get the current BtB gamebox go to http://www.gmtgames.com/nnbb/btb3.2.zip.
4. How do I get started with Cyberboard?
Cyberboard is a "virtual" copy of the map and counters that you can move around. Each player can track the movement of both sides independently or players can exchange "move" files that update each other's copy of the ongoing game. Go to http://cyberboard.brainiac.com/, as there are several resources there to help get you started.
5. How do I play using a MAC computer?
At the current time, you’ll need to use set up a physical map, or use a PC emulator, as Cyberboard runs on a PC.
6. I have never played in a tournament before. How should I get started?
You’ll want to become familiar with ACTS. Set up a practice game and get a feel for the user interface. Review some of the other active BTB games to get a feel for playing strategies and how folks play the game using ACTS.
7. What are AREA ratings?
AREA is a free rating service used by folks running ‘competitive’ events. Sometimes it helps with seedings, other times its useful for knowing whether you’re playing someone with experience or not. The GMs will submit all game outcomes; players don’t need to do anything.