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1995-11-09
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Westwood Studios Official
Command & Conquer Frequently Asked Questions List
Last Update: November 7th, 1995
Version 2.2
About this document....
I have made a vain attempt to answer every question anyone could ever
ask regarding our newest real-time strategy game, COMMAND & CONQUER:
TIBERIAN DAWN. If you see something that needs to be added, please email
me here at Westwood with your question and I'll consider its inclusion
into the next FAQ sheet.
This FAQ sheet will no longer be available by writing mail to my internet
address. You may obtain new versions of the C&C FAQ through the Westwood
Studios web site (www.westwood.com) or through our ftp site
(ftp.westwood.com).
All information contained herein is copyright 1995 by Westwood Studios. You
are allowed to distribute it freely, but not to make changes.
(virtualted@westwood.com)
--- PART 1 : GENERAL INFORMATION -------------------------------------------
1.1 What is Command & Conquer?
1.2 System Requirements.
1.3 Is this Dune III?
1.4 When is the game going to be released in North America? Elsewhere?
1.5 Are there screenshots or maybe a Demo available to download?
1.6 Can I play Command & Conquer against a friend?
1.7 Will Command & Conquer support MY sound card?
--- PART 2 : GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT GAME PLAY -----------------------------
2.1 How many units are in the game?
2.2 Are the air units similar to the ones in DUNE II? Can I control them?
2.3 How many missions are there in Command & Conquer?
2.4 Am I limited in how many units I can create?
2.5 Can I create teams of units? Is it easy to do?
2.6 Do I need to buy two copies for multiplayer games?
2.7 How is the computer A.I. in comparison to other real-time games?
2.8 Is it possible to team up with or against friends on a network?
--- PART 3 : PLAYING THE GAME ----------------------------------------------
3.1 Special keyboard shortcuts - not in the manual.
3.2 Miscellaneous Hints/Tactics.
3.3 Any cheat codes?
3.4 Charts for obtaining units.
3.5 Charts for obtaining structures.
3.6 Description of Multi-player crates.
--- PART 4 : PLAYING THE GAME WITH KALI ------------------------------------
4.1 What is KALI?
4.2 How do I get the KALI software?
4.3 How to set up KALI to run COMMAND & CONQUER.
--- PART 5 : MODEM/NETWORK HELP --------------------------------------------
5.1 Sample Modem INIT strings you can use.
5.2 How to increase modem performance.
5.3 Network notes to remember.
--- PART 6 : TROUBLESHOOTING -----------------------------------------------
6.1 What to do when the game doesn't want to work.
6.2 How to get Command & Conquer installed under Windows 95.
6.3 How to get Command & Conquer running with Windows 95 and 8 megabytes.
6.4 Improving video playback performance under Windows 95.
6.5 How to fix modem problems under Windows 95.
6.6 Mouse is not identified, or does not behave correctly.
6.7 Divide Overflow error upon installation.
6.8 Command & Conquer Patch file (1.18p).
--- PART 7 : GETTING HELP --------------------------------------------------
7.1 How to Order Command & Conquer.
7.2 Contacting Westwood Studios directly.
7.3 Our internet www and ftp sites.
--- PART 8 : IN THE FUTURE -------------------------------------------------
8.1 When is Command & Conquer II going to be released?
8.2 Where can I get extra missions for Command & Conquer?
****************************************************************************
GENERAL INFORMATION ********************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.1 WHAT IS COMMAND & CONQUER?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command & Conquer is a real-time strategy-combat game developed by
Westwood Studios, the creators of DUNE II.
The Press Release :
WESTWOOD STUDIOS INTRODUCES : COMMAND & CONQUER
Imagine a brutal, devastating conflict of global proportions.
Now imagine it all fitting on two CDs.
Introducing COMMAND & CONQUER, from the creators of DUNE II.
A frighteningly realistic glimpse into the near future, when the
planet is divided between two forces battling for world domination.
Players can fight for a peacekeeping alliance called the
Global Defense Initiative. Or their mortal enemy, a terrorist
organization called the Brotherhood of Nod. Either way, they'll
have their strategies tested in a real-time world, complete with
over 60 minutes of intense full-motion video and 3-D rendered
graphics that are as visceral as they are visual. Which of
course, is unfortunate for those with weaker stomachs.
COMMAND & CONQUER's real-time combat system is designed to be
deep and meaningful, yet accessible. Those familiar with
Westwood's earlier award winning strategy game DUNE II will
remember the ease of use in a fast-paced race of destruction and
mayhem. However, we've made a few modifications you might want
to look into...
Build and better your bases, unite or divide your forces, develop
and utilize guerrilla tactics and a wealth of potent electronic
hardware, and make sure that "Reduce the Opposition to pulp" is at
the top of your list of things to do today.
As one person put it...
"The attention to detail is exemplary - it's like having a
fully-functioning miniature world-gone-mad crawling with
armies of intelligent beings, all secured in a big glass box,
and all at your disposal."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.2 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command & Conquer (2 CD-ROMs) requires at least the following system
configuration :
CPU: 486/66 or higher.
RAM: 8MB total, 6MB free XMS or EMS, 560KB conventional RAM.
HD space: 30MB.
CD: 2xCD-ROM drive.
SOUND: Sound Blaster, Sound Blaster Pro, Sound Blaster 16,
Sound Blaster AWE32 and 100% Sound Blaster compatibles,
Gravis UltraSound, Gravis UltraSound MAX, Ensonic
Soundscape, Roland RAP-10, ESS Audiodrive, Microsoft
Sound System, Gold Sound Standard, Pro Audio Spectrum.
DISPLAY: MCGA graphics (256 color, 320x200 pixel resolution).
MOUSE: Microsoft Mouse or 100% compatible.
DOS: 5.0 or higher.
WINDOWS: 3.1 or higher.
For multi-player:
SERIAL: 2 players over minimum 9,600 bps modem, 14,400 bps
modem or higher recommended. 2 players over null
modem connection.
NETWORK: 2-4 players over IPX compliant network.
Command & Conquer will stream and mix all music directly from the CD
with sound effects in the game. Any Soundblaster compatible card
capable of playing digital audio will be supported. Audio quality
for both 8 bit and 16 bit cards is nothing less than superb.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.3 Is this DUNE III?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command & Conquer is not DUNE III. The only item borrowed from our
earlier real-time strategy game is the cool interface, and even that
has been updated. The game engine has been totally rewritten to
support more units and an enhanced artificial intelligence.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.4 When will Command & Conquer be released?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command & Conquer is available world wide NOW. Check with
A local software store for a release date if you don't see it, since
there have been many reports of stores running out of stock.
We appreciate everyone's patience while we finished work on C&C.
Thanks again for your support.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.5 Is there a demo or screenshots available?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
You can download .AVI movies, screenshots, and music clips from either
our ftp site at ftp.westwood.com or our web site at www.westwood.com.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.6 Can I play Command & Conquer against a friend?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes. C&C will support Network, Null Modem and Modem play. Network
mode allows four players to go head-to-head. A computer opponent can
also be added to increase any game by one more player.
Each player must have one of the Command & Conquer CD-ROM's in their
system before play can begin.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.7 How about my GUS/ProAudio Spectrum/Whizbang 3000 sound card? Support?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
We will not support any card in direct or "native" mode. Our new
sound drivers enable us to play and mix music and voices directly
from the CD-ROM. Instead of hearing a computer generated version
of a guitar or drums, you'll be hearing the real thing right off
the CD. Command & Conquer is one of the first Westwood products
to support DDA (Direct Digital Audio).
If your card is capable of playing digital sounds (and most
cards are), you should have no problem with sound support.
****************************************************************************
GAME PLAY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ***********************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.1 How many units are in the game?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lots. There are close to 50 different units and structures in the
game. Each side has different units, different strengths, etc..
We have played here at Westwood quite often to ensure that the game
is perfectly balanced.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.2 Are there air units which I can control?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes. As stated before, this is not DUNE II. A10's, Transport
helicopters, planes, and other attack craft will be able take orders
to land, take off, pick up troops, bomb, etc.. In Command &
Conquer, you have real-time control of almost all units.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.3 How many missions are in C&C?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
In total, there are around 50 missions. However, the missions
differ depending on which route you take in the game. Finishing the
game playing both GDI and NOD doesn't mean that playing the game again
will be the same.
Roughly, it will take you about 15 successful missions to complete
the game using each side.
There are also specially designed multiplayer missions which are
configurable in a variety of ways. You can play against any
combination of computer/player opponents (up to four players)
simultaneously. One person cannot play by themselves in multiplayer
missions.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.4 Am I limited in how many units I can create?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. When programming DUNE II, we had to stick to limited memory
requirements. Now, your only limit is the amount of money you
have to buy reinforcements, (and how long you can keep your troops
alive.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.5 Team Mode (?)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, teaming units will be enabled in Command & Conquer through a very
simple procedure. Click on a portion of the screen, hold down your
mouse button and draw a box around the units you wish to team up, then
let the button go. It's that easy. And, you can select a whole
screen of your units to create a team if you wish. There really
isn't any limit.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.6 Do I need to buy two copies of the game to play on two computers?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have designed the game so that you won't need to buy two separate
copies of the game in order to play with a friend. You can give away
one of your CDs so that you can both play over the modem. In order to
play the normal game, you'll need both CDs.
The reason we're doing it this way is so that you can enjoy the
multiplayer aspect of C&C more easily. Although we could have
designed it so that two copies of the game must be purchased in
order to use multiplayer, we are hoping that if we treat our fans
right, then they will in turn treat us right.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.7 How is the computer artificial intelligence compared to other games?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since Command & Conquer was written from scratch, we were able to
implement a completely new artificial intelligence. Instead, expect
a new adversary which will attack, retreat, regroup, attack again,
and probe your base for weaknesses. Helicopters will invade, and
troops will pour through your walls all too often.
This game will not be easy.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.8 Team Mode (Alliance) option.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Because so many of you asked for it, we decided to make it so that
you can team up with (or against) your friends in multiplayer mode.
Teams can be of one to three players, and of any type (GDI or NOD).
You will not be able to control your team members' units, but you will
have access to his refinery, helicopter pads, and other resources.
Most importantly, your units will not attack one another when they
come into direct contact.
****************************************************************************
PLAYING THE GAME ***********************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.1 Special Keyboard Shortcuts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
C&C has a range of keyboard shortcuts and extra features which are
keyboard driven. These are intended for the advanced player and are
not essential to normal gameplay. They are, however, very cool:
Unit Control:
G : Guard Area
Select a group of units and then hit G to put them into
Guard Area mode. In this mode, units will patrol and
open fire on any enemy units that come within range.
X : Scatter Units
This causes a selected group of units to scatter
(for example, to make themselves into more difficult
targets).
S : Stop Unit
Causes a unit to stop in its tracks.
Keyboard Shortcuts:
F7-F10 : Map Bookmark System
Use CTRL+F7-F10 to place a bookmark, then use
F7-F10 to jump to that spot.
<CTRL>-# : Team Creation
Use CTRL and a number key (0-9) to mark a group
of selected units as a team.
0-9 : Team Selection
Selects a pre-marked team (see Team Creation) as the
current active group.
TAB : Open/Close Sidebar
H : Automatically selects and centers the view around your
construction yard.
N : Your next unit on the playing field is selected and the
view is centered about it.
R : Allows resigning in single player mode as well as
multiplayer.
<HOME> : Centers the view around the currently selected object.
<ALT>-# : If the <ALT> key is held while pressing a team number,
the specified team will be selected and the view
centered over the team members. This is identical to
pressing the team number and then pressing <HOME>.
Multiplayer Options:
A : Alliance
Select an enemy unit and hit A. This causes your units
to treat all the units of the allied side as friendly,
as such you will not be able to target them. Note that
this is not a reciprocal arrangement and your new ally
must explicitly do the same thing to your units. This
is a toggle and hitting A for a second time will cause
you to declare war on your old ally.
R : Resign from Multiplayer Game
If all hope is lost you can resign, or surrender, by
hitting the R key. This causes all your units to explode
in a spectacular manner, thus depriving your enemy of
absolute victory! It should be noted that anyone using
this option in other than hopeless situations will be
considered a wimp by their opponents and will be
endlessly taunted in subsequent games. Probably.
Cursor Modifiers:
CTRL : Force Attack
Holding down the CTRL key forces your cursor into
the target cursor. This allows you to target your own
units, amongst other things.
ALT : Force Move
Forces your units to move when they would normally
just stand and fight. This is useful with tanks against
enemy infantry, for example. Try it and see.
CTRL+ALT : Guard Area or Unit
Select a group of units and then CTRL+ALT click on a
building, this forces your units to patrol the area
around the building looking for the enemy. They will
engage the enemy if found. If you CTRL+ALT click on
another one of your units (for example, the harvester)
your selected units will guard that unit as it moves
around the map. This also applies to enemy units,
which is perhaps not so useful.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.2 Quick Tips/Tactics.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a) Using Chem Troopers.
Chem troopers are only available in multi-player mode. Chem
troopers do one and a half times the damage of flamethrower
infantry units, and can walk through tiberium without taking
damage.
b) Building a Nuclear weapon in NOD single player missions.
To allow your Temple of NOD to launch nuclear missiles in the
final battle, you will need to retrieve the crates on levels
6, 8, and 12. If you do not find the crates before finishing
the mission, the nuclear missile will not be available. You
may have to sell or destroy enemy buildings to get a few of
the crates.
c) Selling buildings.
Selling a building will get you 50% of the purchase price. Do
not sell your construction yard!
d) Capturing enemy buildings.
By capturing an enemy building, you not only have the option
of selling it for money, but you can build units and structures
that you wouldn't normally be able to do with your own
facilities.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.3 Cheat codes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are absolutely no cheat codes for Command & Conquer. This
means that...
1) There are no cheat codes.
2) No cheat codes were included.
3) We didn't want to include any cheat codes.
No amount of begging will result in something that doesn't exist.
Also, a warning to those who would plunder our code in an attempt to
cheat in multiplayer mode. Any attempt to change the software through
devious means will result in an out-of-sync error every time you try
to connect to someone else. We have conducted several tests to
confirm this.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.4 Chart for creation of units.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's a chart for the creation of units in Command & Conquer.
The number in parenthesis next to the unit number is the tech level
required in multiplayer mode.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
| GDI UNIT | TECH LVL | PREREQUISITE |
-------------------+----------+-----------------------------------------
| Minigun Infantry | 1 | Barracks |
| Grenade Infantry | 1 | Barracks |
| Rocket Infantry | 2 | Barracks |
| Engineer | 3 | Barracks |
| Commando* | 7 | Barracks, Advanced Comm Center |
| Humm Vee | 2 | Weapons Factory |
| APC | 4 | Barracks, Weapons Factory |
| Medium Tank | 3 | Weapons Factory |
| MRLS | 7 | Weapons Factory, Adv. Comm Center |
| Mammoth Tank | 5 | Weapons Factory, Repair Bay |
| Chinook* | 6 | Weapons Factory, Helipad |
| Orca | 6 | Weapons Factory, Helipad |
| MCV | 7 | Weapons Factory, Adv. Comm Center |
| Harvester | 2 | Weapons Factory, Refinery |
| Ion Cannon | 7 | Adv. Comm Center |
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For NOD units...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
| NOD UNIT | TECH LVL | PREREQUISITE |
-------------------+----------+-----------------------------------------
| Minigun Infantry | 1 | Hand of Nod |
| Rocket Infantry | 2 | Hand of Nod |
| Flamethrower Inf | 1 | Hand of Nod |
| Engineer | 3 | Hand of Nod |
| Chem Warrior* | 7 | Hand of Nod, Temple of Nod |
| Commando* | 7 | Hand of Nod, Temple of Nod |
| Nod Buggy | 2 | Airfield |
| Recon Bike | 2 | Airfield |
| Light Tank | 3 | Airfield |
| Artillery | 6 | Airfield |
| Flame Tank | 4 | Communications Center, Airfield |
| Stealth Tank | 5 | Communications Center, Airfield |
| Chinook* | 6 | Helipad, Airfield |
| Apache* | 6 | Helipad, Airfield |
| MCV | 7 | Weapons Factory, Temple of Nod |
| Harvester | 2 | Weapons Factory, Refinery |
| Nuclear Strike | 7 | Temple of Nod |
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Available in multi-player missions only. May be available in single
player missions as unit given to you at start of mission or as a
mission objective for capture.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.5 Chart for creation of structures.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This chart details what the requirements are to build structures in
C&C. Note that in single player missions, you may not have access
to advanced buildings until later in the game.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
| GDI STRUCTURE | TECH LVL | PREREQUISITE |
-------------------+----------+-----------------------------------------
| Const. Yard | 1 | None (all buildings require this) |
| Power Plant | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Barracks | 1 | Power Plant |
| Refinery | 1 | Power Plant |
| Tiberium Silo | 1 | Refinery |
| Guard Tower | 2 | Barracks |
| Adv. Guard Twr | 4 | Communications Center |
| Weapons Factory | 2 | Power Plant |
| Repair Pad | 5 | Power Plant |
| Comm Center | 2 | Refinery |
| Adv. Pwr Plant | 5 | Power Plant |
| Adv. Comm Cntr | 7 | Communications Center |
| Helipad | 6 | Barracks |
| Sandbags | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Chainlink Fence | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Concrete Wall | 1 | Construction Yard |
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For NOD structures..
------------------------------------------------------------------------
| NOD STRUCTURE | TECH LVL | PREREQUISITE |
-------------------+----------+-----------------------------------------
| Const. Yard | 1 | None (all buildings require this) |
| Power Plant | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Hand of NOD | 1 | Power Plant |
| Refinery | 1 | Power Plant |
| Tiberium Silo | 1 | Refinery |
| Turret | 2 | Hand of Nod |
| SAM Site | 6 | Hand of Nod |
| Airfield | 2 | Refinery |
| Repair Pad | 5 | Power Plant |
| Comm Center | 2 | Refinery |
| Adv. Pwr Plant | 5 | Power Plant |
| Temple of NOD | 7 | Communications Center |
| Helipad | 6 | Hand of Nod |
| Obelisk of Light | 4 | Communications Center |
| Chainlink Fence | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Concrete Wall | 1 | Construction Yard |
| Sandbags | 1 | Construction Yard |
------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.6 Description of crate contents in Multi-player mode.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is a brief explanation of the contents of crates in multi-
player mode.
MONEY Random. Can be in any amount up to $2,000.
NUKE MISSILE Equivalent of nuclear strike using Temple
of NOD. One shot only.
REVEAL MAP Uncovers the entire map for the player. This
applies to the radar screen, as well as the
onscreen map.
STEALTH Will stealth any unit that discovers this
crate, as well as all units and structures
within a 50 foot radius.
EXTRA UNITS Random. Can be any GDI or NOD unit.
HEAL ALL Heals all of your units and structures to 100%
health.
ION CANNON Equivalent of ion cannon using the Advanced
Communication Facility. One shot only.
NUKE STRIKE Directs a Nuke Strike against the location of
the crate retrieved. Very bad.
BOMB Explodes on contact. Very bad.
HIDE MAP Hides the entire map, except for your units.
VISCEROID Releases a Tiberium-spawned Visceroid into the
playing field. Attacks randomly.
If your base is completely gone, there's a chance you can make a
quick comeback! You must have at least $2,400 and no structures
of any kind left on the map. There is an excellent chance that
the next crate you find will contain an MCV.
****************************************************************************
PLAYING THE GAME WITH KALI *************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.1 What is Kali?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kali is a program written by Jay Cotton which allows you to play
network games using the IPX protocol over an Internet SLIP or PPP
connection. We have been playing C&C over KALI for a few months now,
and it seems to work quite well.
However, remember that we cannot provide technical support for KALI
in any way. If the words "IP Address", "ping", "slip/ppp" and
"IPX" are unknown to you, this entire concept may be a little over your
head.
Again, neither Westwood Studios nor Virgin Interactive
Entertainment can offer support for those of you wishing to
experiment with the KALI software.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.2 How do I get the KALI shareware package?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
You can download the newest KALI software and other files you need at:
ftp://ftp.axxis.com/pub/kali
While you're there, download PPP.ZIP and PING.ZIP if they're available.
These programs are what you will need to dial into your Internet
service provider and establish a PPP connection. There are SLIP
and network card drivers available as well.
Remember, this program is shareware. If you find it useful, we
suggest you support Jay Cotton in his future programming endeavors
by registering your copy.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.3 How to set up KALI with C&C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
First, I'm not going to go through the entire process of explaining
how to set up KALI to dial and connect to your internet service
provider. There are examples that will show you how to do this
in the KALI files.
1. Get the KALI software from the ftp site mentioned above. You will
also need PPP.ZIP.
2. Configure the PPP driver software to connect to your provider.
There are excellent examples on how to do this included within the
PPP.ZIP file.
3. After connecting to your ISP, set up and use KALI to connect
to Kali Central (204.96.20.10). This is where you'll meet others
to play Command & Conquer. After connecting you should see a list
of other people connected, and the games that they're currently playing.
Now here's the tricky part...
PPP and KALI take up a lot of low memory. The trick will be to load
your MOUSE, CD-ROM drivers, PPP, and KALI, and still have enough memory
left to run Command & Conquer. If you're not using Windows 95, this
should be a piece of cake. If you ARE running Windows 95, I would
suggest a boot disk with something similar to the following :
CONFIG.SYS :
DOS=HIGH,UMB
DEVICE=C:\DOS\HIMEM.SYS
DEVICE=C:\WINDOWS\EMM386.EXE NOEMS
DEVICE=A:\MOUSE.SYS
DEVICE=A:\SBCD.SYS /D:MSCD001 /P:220 /E (may be different for you)
AUTOEXEC.BAT :
MSCDEX.EXE /D:MSCD001 /V /M:15 (may be different for you)
You can copy your drivers to your boot disk, or load them off your
hard drive, it really doesn't matter. However, if you are using
Drivespace, you will have to disable it by hitting F8 when your
computer boots up, then select "Step by Step confirmation" and skip
any drivespace or Windows drivers your system tries to load. If you
try to load drivespace, you probably won't have enough memory left
over to run Command & Conquer. Make sure that C&C isn't stored on
the compressed drive, or you won't have access to it!
Command & Conquer can work in as little as 425K of free lower memory.
You can probably load your PPP driver low, and your KALI driver high,
and have enough depending on what the size of your drivers is.
After you have loaded your CD-ROM and mouse drivers, loaded PPP.EXE and
KALI, run Command & Conquer and select the Multiplayer (Network)
game option from the main menu. You should see others playing C&C, or
you can start a game of your own and wait for others to join you. If
KALI Central, or wherever you decide to log in to is very busy, it's
probably best if you set up your own virtual network with the other
players. Use KCHAT, the Kali chat program to arrange this.
If anyone has information they would like to add to this section,
please feel free to email it to me.
****************************************************************************
MODEM/NETWORK HELP *********************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.1 Modem Initialization Strings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As detailed in the manual, we seem to get best modem
performance with modem data-compression and error-correction
turned off. You can do this by going to the serial game
settings dialog and entering the appropriate init. string
for your modem. This should be entered on the host (dialing)
machine, the guest (receiver) should use ATZ. If you use these
init. strings the modem speed may have to be set to the exact
speed of your modem, for example 14,400 bps or 28800 bps. Here
are example init. strings for some popular modems:
Modem Init. String
US ROBOTICS SPORTSTER 9600/14400/28800 . . . AT&M0&K0
DIGICOM SCOUT 288VFCi . . . . . . . . . . . AT\N1
BEST DATA SMART ONE 14400 . . . . . . . . . AT\N1
HAYES ACCURA 28800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . AT&Q0
SUPRA 14400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AT\N1
PRACTICAL 14400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AT&Q0
ZOOM 28800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AT&Q0
If you have had success in using a modem that is not on this
list, please send us the init. string you're using, and we'll
add it to this list!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.2 How to increase modem multi-player performance.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
With music playing during a modem game, there is a possibility
of pausing or very slow game play. For optimum performance,
music volume under the options menu should be set to zero
(far left), this is the default setting. The game speed should
be satisfactory with sound effects on and music turned down.
If you have a 486 system with an external modem you might
experience pausing or very slow game play. This is due to
the 8250 UART chip which is in most 486 class machines, this
chip causes the CPU to work harder in null modem and modem
games. There are several work-arounds:
1. Turn off both music and sound effects in the setup program
prior to playing the game. This will improve performance at
the expense of losing all game sounds.
2. Install an internal modem. These modems have their own
UART chips which are designed for higher performance.
3. Install a high performance serial card in your system.
If you are using a 14400/28800 bps external modem with
your 486 class system you should seriously consider installing
a high performance serial card. These cards usually have a
16550A type UART chip which outperforms the 8250 UART in all
serial communications applications by buffering data more
efficiently.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.3 Network notes to remember.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------*
For multiplayer network games we strongly caution you to use a
homogeneous network environment - that is, to use the same type
of IPX compliant network drivers (e.g., IPX, IPXODI etc.) on each
system. We have found incompatibilities between drivers from
different manufacturers so you should bear this in mind if you
are having network game troubles.
C&C should work with any IPX compliant network but we have found
problems running with Microsoft MSIPX.COM. We strongly recommend
that you avoid MSIPX and use either IPX.COM from Novell, or use
IPXODI drivers compatible with your card. If in doubt you should
ask your network administrator to upgrade your system.
****************************************************************************
TROUBLESHOOTING ************************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.1 What to do when the game doesn't want to run...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command & Conquer has been tested on hundreds of computers. If
you're having a problem, it probably has something to do with the way
your system is set up.
Steps you should take :
1. Read the README file located on the CD-ROM. It contains
valuable information about certain sound cards, Windows,
etc..
2. Read the troubleshooting section of this document! If it
seems to be a common problem that people are having, chances
are you will find it answered below.
3. Check our web site or your favorite online service for
the newest version of this document. You may also want to
check the message areas to see if anyone else has had
trouble similar to yours, and has already found a solution.
4. Write or call us! You can reach Virgin Interactive
Entertainment customer support by dialing 1-714-833-1999.
Be sure to have your computer up and running, and get
ready to spill your guts about the type of system you're
running C&C on. This includes listings of your AUTOEXEC.BAT
and CONFIG.SYS files. You can write to us via email at the
services mentioned later in this document. Be sure to
send all the same information mentioned above in your mail.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.2 How to get Command & Conquer working under Windows 95.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
To install under Windows 95, follow these four easy steps:
1) Click START/RUN, type D:\SETUP.EXE (where D is your CD-ROM
drive); type ENTER.
2) Follow instructions in setup program as normal.
3) When installation is finished, restart Windows 95 to
initialize the C&C icons.
4) Start C&C using START/PROGRAMS/WESTWOOD/C&C.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.3 Running C&C with Windows 95 and 8 megabytes of memory.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you only have 8 megabytes in your machine, you may need to make
some modifications to allow C&C to run on the desktop. Below is
a step-by-step instruction manual for beginners to make the
necessary changes...
a) Start Explorer and go to the directory where you installed C&C.
b) Find the C&C.EXE file, and right click it.
e) Chose PROPERTIES from the menu.
f) Click on the MEMORY tab.
g) Look for the section that says EXPANDED (EMS) MEMORY.
It should have 'Auto' in the window. Click the arrow next
to the 'Auto' and scroll down until you see NONE. Click this.
h) Look for the section that says MSDOS PROTECTED MODE (DPMI)
MEMORY. It should have 'Auto' in the window. Click the
arrow next to the 'Auto' . Scroll down until you see 16384. Click
this.
i) Hit APPLY, then OK.
j) Start the game through the Taskbar normally.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.4 Improving video playback performance under Windows 95.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The performance of C&C in a Windows 95 DOS box is slightly
slower than in a real DOS environment. You can improve movie
playback performance by following these step-by-step instructions.
a) Go to the START/SETTINGS/CONTROL PANEL menu.
b) Double-click on the SYSTEM icon.
c) Click the PERFORMANCE tab, then click the FILE SYSTEM
button.
d) Click the CD-ROM tab.
e) You will see a slider labeled SUPPLEMENTAL CACHE SIZE.
Slide the slider all the way to the right. Remember
however that increasing your cache size reduces the
memory available to the rest of the system while in
Windows.
f) Next, look for a window labeled OPTIMIZE ACCESS
PATTERN FOR: In the window, choose the one that best
describes your CD drive (single, double, triple, quad
and higher speed drive.)
g) Click the APPLY button. You will get a window asking
you to restart your machine. Do so.
h) Once you have restarted, run the game normally. This should
also increase the performance of any other CD title you have.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.5 How to fix modem problems under Windows 95.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you find that you have trouble connecting during modem play, or
get sync errors when you connect, there are a few things you can do
to solve this problem:
a) Check to see that the port setting in Windows 95 is correct
for your modem. Windows defaults to 9600 baud. You will want
to change the default baud rate to 57600. To do this:
1) Click on START/SETTINGS/CONTROL PANEL.
2) Double click the SYSTEM icon, click the DEVICE
MANAGER tab.
3) Click the plus sign next to the PORTS listing.
Double-click on the right COMM port for your modem.
4) Click the PORT SETTINGS tab. The window at the top (BITS
PER SECOND) is the baud rate for the port. Set this
for 57600 baud.
5) Click OK twice to close both windows. You may have to
restart Windows.
b) Make sure the error correction and compression on your modem
is turned OFF. Check the README file that came with Command and
Conquer or this document for a list of Modem initialization strings
that will accomplish this (copy the initialization string for your
modem in the README file to the init string box in the modem setup
screen.) If your modem is not listed in the README, you will need
to check your modem manual or call the manufacturer for your modem
to see how to do this.
c) If you simply cannot get Command and Conquer to connect
correctly in Windows 95, reboot to DOS mode and re-run the game. Be
sure that your sound card and CD-ROM drivers are loading in DOS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.6 My mouse isn't detected, or doesn't work correctly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you encounter any problems with the mouse, such as erratic
movement, etc., the first thing you should do is update your mouse
driver. Problems with the mouse, although rare, are almost always
caused by older mouse drivers. Contact your computer manufacturer
or local software retailer for information on obtaining the latest
mouse drivers for your computer.
Many players have discovered that only the install program is
incompatible with their mouse driver. Install C&C without loading your
mouse driver, then exit and load your mouse normally before playing the
game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.7 Divide Overflow upon installation of Command & Conquer.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you get a Divide Overflow error when running the INSTALL or SETUP
programs on the CD-ROM, you have two methods of correcting this
problem:
1. You can update your mouse driver. The C&C installation
software is not compatible with older mouse drivers.
Contact your mouse manufacturer for information on obtaining
the new driver for your mouse.
2. Unload the mouse driver when installing C&C. A mouse is
not required for installation. When you are finished,
load the mouse driver normally and run the game as the
instruction manual indicates.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.8 Command & Conquer Patch file (1.18p)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Westwood Studios has issued a patch to upgrade your 1.07 version of
Command & Conquer to 1.18p. You can download this patch through
the Westwood Studios web site, or the ftp site.
The 1.18p patch addresses the following problems :
1. Windows Modem Play.
Improves modem play under Windows 95 for some people.
It is still highly recommended that you turn error
correction/data compression off. Check your modem
manual for more information about this.
2. USR 14,400/28,800 UART SPEED.
Addresses USR Robotics modem connect problems at
14,400 or 28,800 baud.
3. Diamond Viper Palette/Color Problem.
Addresses a special problem detected in DIAMOND
VIPER video card. Colors may appear irregular
if you're using this card.
4. Movies do not play when CD is swapped.
Addresses the fact that briefings and cutscenes
do not appear if you choose NOD when
playing from disk 1, or any time that you swap
disks.
5. Fixes silo money refund problem.
Addresses the problem with too much money being
refunded from selling a silo.
6. Cost of turrets increased.
Addresses the cost of turrets so that they will
cost 600 credits.
7. Nuclear missile crates collection bug.
Collecting all the special nuclear weapon crates
in certain Nod scenarios will now always give the
Nod player a nuclear weapon option. The Nod player
must build the Temple of Nod in the final mission
to activate this option.
Some of you have reported other errors not listed in this FAQ
sheet. If you're having trouble, please let us know! We will
need the following information :
a) Machine Configuration (RAM, Processor, Video card, etc.)
b) Operating System (Windows, DOS, Windows 95, etc..)
c) AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files in text format.
d) Modem type, and speed (if applicable).
Be as thorough as possible in your message, then email to
mail@westwood.com.
****************************************************************************
GETTING HELP / ORDERING INFORMATION ****************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.1 What is the purchase price/How can I order C&C?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 17th, the Virgin Interactive Entertainment order line
will ship C&C out for $59.95 plus $4.00 postage and handling.
In the United States, call..................1-800-874-4607.
Everywhere else.............................1-619-490-9070.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.2 How to contact Westwood Studios
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
You can email Westwood Studios at :
westwoods@aol.com
Mail to my account (virtualted@westwood.com) has been incredible
since the release of Command & Conquer. Our technical support staff
at America Online can get back to you much more quickly than I can.
Westwood has online support available through America Online
Compuserve, GEnie, PRODIGY, and the Westwood BBS. After
connecting to these services, simply do a search for "WESTWOOD" or
"WESTWOOD SUPPORT" and you'll find our section. Check your
manual for exact instructions.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------*
7.3 Westwood FTP / WWW site.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------*
You can get to our web site at : http://www.westwood.com
Or our FTP site at : http://ftp.westwood.com
****************************************************************************
IN THE FUTURE **************************************************************
****************************************************************************
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.1 When will "Command & Conquer II: Tiberian Sun" be released?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Coming Soon." We expect to release it late in the second half
of 1996. As soon as details are available about the game, we will
let everyone know through the Westwood Studios WEB site. Tiberian
Sun is an entirely new game, not a data disk for C&C: Tiberian Dawn.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.2 Where can I get extra missions for Command & Conquer?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have not yet decided how we will make new missions available, but
we do plan to release extra missions at a later date. We'll let
everyone know as soon as a decision is made on how to implement this.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
END OF DOCUMENT 11/07/95
-VT
