Random help needed

stanimation

I'm trying to figure out a random rule. Here is an example:

(ceil(random(-.99,.99))*180)+90

The problem is I don't think the ceil is working with the negative number. I need to generate random 0 and 1. Any help would be appreciated!! Thanks!!

firemaplegames

You cannot have real numbers in the random function, only integers.

What is final range of numbers that you are looking for?

stanimation

Hey FMG, I am trying to figure out how to get two to four specific (that can be specified) numbers in a random fashion. For example if I chose 180 and 90, when called it will randomly select one of the two. Same with four numbers. Thanks for any help!!

firemaplegames

Well, one way, without any math, would be this:

Change Attribute
self.myRandomNumber To: random(1,4)

Rule
When all conditions are valid:
self.myRandomNumber = 1
Change Attribute: self.chosenNumber To: 180

Rule
When all conditions are valid:
self.myRandomNumber = 2
Change Attribute: self.chosenNumber To: 90

etc...

However, since those two numbers are mathematically related nicely, you could do this:

Change Attribute
self.myRandomNumber To: (random(0,1) * 90) + 90

That will give you EITHER 90 or 180.

What are the other two numbers? Maybe they can easily work as well.

stanimation

actually I'm trying to have a random east west move or a random north south or a combination of those movements. I thought I needed to use the ceil function but I guess not.

firemaplegames

Change Attribute
self.myRandomDirection To: (random(0,3) * 90) + 90

That will give you either 90,180, 270, or 360(0)

Is that sort of what you were thinking?

stanimation

That should do it! Thanks man. Easier than I thought. You rock!

firemaplegames

Cool! Glad I could help.

I haven't tested it, but you MIGHT need to wrap the whole thing in a modulus function to make sure it wraps back to zero, like this:

Change Attribute
self.myRandomDirection To: ((random(0,3) * 90) + 90)%360

Which will give you either 90,180, 270, or 0
(the 360 will be forced back to zero)

stanimation

Cool. I cant wait to test it tonight. Thanks Joe!