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CyberScape LIVE! * On-Line Interview with Shadoware!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
On Sunday, June 27th 1993, at 9:00pm CyberScape LIVE! featured a talk with
Sam Misemer and Ken Foster of Shadoware who write great shareware for
Windows. We spoke about Shadoware, it's products and goals, and even got a
glimpse of what the future may have in store for them. Shadoware is based
in New Port Richey Florida, where The Board of Trade (Richard Ziegler,
SysOp) is their Home BBS. Rich Ziegler is also the Editor of the Pasco BBS
Magazine, which will be carrying "The Best of CyberScape LIVE!".
Every Sunday night at 9pm (Eastern Time) CyberScape BBS turns into
CyberScape LIVE! and hosts a Live On-Line Interview with personalities
from the shareware or BBS industry. We have many such interviews planned
with SysOps, Authors, and all the other people both in front of and behind
the scenes of the shareware industry. Stop in some Sunday night and you
can be part of the action. Anyone who calls CyberScape BBS and joins us in
a LIVE Interview will get a chance post their questions and have their name
or company appear in the transcripts.
What you're reading is the written transcript which was recorded LIVE,
On-Line, in Chat Conference on CyberScape BBS. Sometimes in an On-Line
Chat the conversation can get difficult to follow since replies don't
always follow questions directly. So, during editing, conversations have
been grouped (eg: questions grouped with answers) but other than that, this
is the EXACT text of the interview. Preceding each line of dialogue, you
will notice a number and name as in the following example: (02:KEN FOSTER).
The number shown is the CyberScape Node Number that the person was logged
into, and the name tells you who's saying what. That's about all the
explaining that needs to be done, we hope you enjoy the interview!
Dave White * Sysop
-=CyberScape BBS=-
- Get On with it Already! -
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, June 27th, 1993
Start of Session with Ken Foster and Sam Misemer of Shadoware and DarkSoft.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(00:DAVE WHITE) Hi Dudes!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Howdy Dave
(00:DAVE WHITE) We're waiting for our guests....
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Got a few minutes yet <grin>.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Ah, there you are.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Don't scare me Rich, whenever you're quiet I think there's
something wrong! <G>
(00:DAVE WHITE) Gotta run.. Be right back
(03:DUANE MORIN) So we're expecting two guests this evening?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Yes, Sam Misemer and Ken Foster from Shadoware, maybe
Dave is getting them set up now.
(03:DUANE MORIN) If I understand, these are sort of colleagues of yours? I
get that through the mag...
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Yes, my board is the Home Board for Shadoware, but I
am sure that will come up later <grin>.
(03:DUANE MORIN) :) Evening Sam
(01:SAM MISEMER) Hey, Rich and Duane what's up?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Just waiting for the guests of honor! <g>
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) We were just hanging around waiting for you to join
us.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, at least one of us is here...<g>!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Sam why don't you start by telling us all a little
about Shadoware.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, I guess we'll have to give Ken a hard time when he
gets here. Usually, I'm the on who is late! Shadoware started way back in
the 16th century...Wait! Shadoware started as an idea about 8 mos. ago,
but has been around as a reality for about 5 months. Shadoware started as
a result of our dissatisfaction with existing Windows entertainment
software. We thought we could do a little better with the graphical
capabilities of Windows, so we went to work! Most games for Windows use
only 16 colors, and very few take full advantage of the multimedia
capabilities of Windows...
(03:DUANE MORIN) Is that the focus of your group, then? Windows games?
(01:SAM MISEMER) At the moment, yes. We have some very exciting things
planned for the future though...
(03:DUANE MORIN) Do you have a focus within the games field? (i.e.:
adventure, scrollers, platforms)?
(00:DAVE WHITE) I just called Ken, he'll be in momentarily...
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, duane, not really. our first release is basically
an arcade game, but our second release, Dequoter is a word game for
Windows... Some of the other stuff we are working on include a fantasy
game (Wizards doing battle!).
(02:KEN FOSTER) Hello.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Hi Ken!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Evening Ken
(02:KEN FOSTER) Hello Duane, Dave...
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Hey Ken glad you made it!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Is Sam here Yet?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Yes, Sam was just telling us about the beginnings of
Shadoware.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Hi Ken! I have been telling how I am usually the late one
in the morning!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Ah from humble to glorious eh?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) What about The Greens, Shadoware's first release. It
has been out for a couple months now.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Yes, Rich, The Greens has been out for about 2 mos. now,
and we are getting a great response from it. The main thing we are finding
is that most people don't have Windows setup to run in 256 colors, though!
(00:DAVE WHITE) Windows is much faster in 16 colors for most people.
(01:SAM MISEMER) That's true Dave, but you don't get nearly as much "cool
stuff" with 16 colors!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Can we find out a little bit about the two of you, Ken?
Been programming long?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Oh, I started back in 1983...
(00:DAVE WHITE) What types of machines did you both start on?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Originally I started on an old C-64, and slowly worked my
way up to the IBM comps!
(00:DAVE WHITE) And you Sam?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, I started with a TI-994A way back when disk drives
weighed about 50 pounds.
(03:DUANE MORIN) When I find programmers in the "real world" I like to ask
whether they went to college? Or were self taught?
(01:SAM MISEMER) A little of both on my end. I have had some VERY basic
programming classes in college, but most of my experience is self
taught...(Also Ken taught)...<g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) Mainly I was self-taught in assembly, Fortran, cobal, and
C. I did take a few courses in PASCAL though.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Yeah...they never really teach you what you need to know,
huh? <g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) Never <g>
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Is there a reason that your releases to this point has
been Windows based? Do you see computers going in that direction?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Is that a trick question Rich? <g> Yes, I feel that
Windows is going to be the OS of the future, and deservedly so...(I better
get ready to duck...)
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Sam, I wouldn't think of a trick question <g>.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Yes he would, Sam! ;)
(03:DUANE MORIN) Sam, even Microsoft would disagree with you on that.
Unless you are including NT in that statement.
(00:DAVE WHITE) What do you both find is the biggest challenge to
Shareware Programming?
(02:KEN FOSTER) As to Dave's question the biggest challenge I can ever see
is actually gathering information on particular devices i.e.. sound cards
and graphics cards.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I feel a little differently about Dave's question. The
biggest challenge is the lack of affordable tools for the dedicated
programmer. Most programs could be spiced up with about $ 2000-$3000 worth
of equipment, but most shareware programmers aren't rich!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Toooooo True, unfortunately the equipment we would like to
have is not the cheapest to obtain.
(00:DAVE WHITE) BBS's are great resources for file formats and hardware
specs, but tools _are_ a different story I guess...
(02:KEN FOSTER) The key part about the equipment is not that it is a
necessity to write good software, but it does speed up development time.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I have to agree with Ken on his last remark. Equipment is
not a necessity for development, but it sure does make life easier!
(00:DAVE WHITE) Interesting... Where do the ideas come from. Is one of
you the "idea man"?
(02:KEN FOSTER) The ideas just sort of flow out. There are no preconceived
ideas that govern what we tend to program.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Maybe we could talk about all the great features in
The Greens?!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Rich, as to the Greens, I would like to think of it as the
ULTIMATE mini-golf game. 256 color graph, sound board support, and it runs
under Windows!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Yes, it is quite creative with lava traps and
teleportation holes.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Another good part about it is that you can hide it real
quick when the boss rounds the corner! <G> I "tested" it at work last
week!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Dave, is that ethical? <g>
(00:DAVE WHITE) shhhhh!
(03:DUANE MORIN) So, you two are proponents for lots of prototyping tools
and libraries? Visual Basic, for example?
(01:SAM MISEMER) I feel that VB is a good language for people who like to
write programs for themselves, but as a commercial language, it does have
some limitations. Speed is a big one that comes to mind.
(02:KEN FOSTER) VISUAL BASIC hmm.... No thank you! It's not that I do not
believe that it is a decent development tool, but the sacrifices you have to
make (speed, space, and efficiency) do not outweigh the benefits of
programming in C++ with ASM.
(03:DUANE MORIN) That was the first example that I could think of. Do you
have some prototyping tools that you like to use?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Mainly, I like to program with BORLAND C++ with TASM
routines to speed it up a bit.
(03:DUANE MORIN) I have to admit, I'm impressed by anyone that programs ASM
with windows. <g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) Believe me, Windows does NOT like anyone messing with the
stack or any interrupt routines. It tends to be very picky when it comes to
processor time.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Duane, Ken is a past master of ASM. He can get Windows to
really scream! And on my machine (386-20) that's an accomplishment.
Windows provides a great platform for programming, but it does indeed have
its limitations.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I hear that. I have a 386sx16 here that I just cannot bear
to run windoze on.... It's much too slow.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Sounds like it is time to get a Pentium!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Enough tech talk. <g> Since I started it. Where'd you
get the idea for Greens? There are hardly any other minigolfs out there.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Everyone enjoys a little game of golf, especially those of
us who cannot even bear to attempt to drive a real golf ball.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, it actually started in the Post Office. We were
talking about taking over the whole screen, and mini-golf came up as an
idea, as well as a pinball game. It changed during development.
(00:DAVE WHITE) They are very closely related in terms of action of the
ball and such (along with billiards). Does that mean that we'll see a
pinball game for windows from Shadoware?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Pinball I'd like! Sierra promised a commercial one and
never came through.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, it may be in development, Sierra seems to take YEARS
between programs!
(02:KEN FOSTER) If you saw the version of Take-A-Break Pinball that I saw ,
you would not have been impressed. They stuck with 16 colors, and ran a
little slow.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) What about Dequoter, your new Windows word puzzle
game. Could you tell us a little about the development of the program.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Rich, DeQuoter is based (as if you didn't know) on the
popular CryptoQuote word game you find in newspapers. We started Dequoter
as an idea to explore some less complex games, and it just kind of got out
of hand...
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) I understand that Shadoware is undertaking a new
direction, maybe you could tell us about the future. I hear there are
exciting thing to come.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, Dave, to answer yours and Rich's question at the
same time, Shadoware is merging (sort of) with a new software development
company called.....DARKSOFT! DarkSoft will be releasing some exciting new
things in the future, and a pinball game may well be one of them!
(00:DAVE WHITE) May be one of them? C'mon... tip your hand a little more!
<G>
(02:KEN FOSTER) The future is going to be filled with many surprises.
Shadoware is officially teaming up on a few new projects in the works.
Development is beginning on a new generation of gaming.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) What about the future of current Shadoware titles?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Shadoware will still supply tech support as well as
upgrades to current releases as well as our next two releases DOMINATE and
The THRONE of Power.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) ...And don't you have several programs scheduled to be
released under the Shadoware label in the next few months?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Shadoware is going to remain in business for "maintenance"
of its releases, but most of the new releases will come from DarkSoft.
Sorry, Dave, but actually, there are many things on the docket before new
projects! <g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) One little hint I think I can give without really tipping
our hand would have to be SPEED, VIRTUAL REALITY, and UNBELIEVABLE
GRAPHICS!
(01:SAM MISEMER) As Ken just said, we have The Throne of Power and Dominate
scheduled as our next releases, and also WinSkin, a football simulator
(fantasy football league).
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Isn't Dominate scheduled for release soon?
(00:DAVE WHITE) 3D Engines? Cool! Let's hear more.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Maybe I said to much? Nah, I can't say too much about it
because a few of the details need to keep under until the legal footwork is
done.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Dominate is scheduled for release later on this summer
(probably early next month) and will be on The Board of Trade first!
(plug++++) <g>
(00:DAVE WHITE) I would like to be on the upload list for all of the
Shadoware Games, do you assign distribution sites?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Dave, I thought you would never ask! Call the BOT (Board
of Trade), and fill out our distribution site script! I think you can
probably be assured of approval! <g>
(00:DAVE WHITE) <g> ...I would hope so!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Sam, tell everyone how to become a Shadoware
Distribution Site! <grin>
(01:SAM MISEMER) OK, here goes...Call our home BBS the Board of Trade at
813-862-4772, and fill out questionnaire #2, and we will respond to your
board with an answer within 2 or 3 days.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) BOT that means Board of Trade BBS in New Port Richey,
Florida, Home of Shadoware and the Pasco BBS Magazine.
(03:DUANE MORIN) What do you think about following the "fads" in shareware
games? Like, for example, everyone who wants to make the next Wolf 3D?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Well, I'd like to leave that to those who wish to follow.
If you want to be in the lead however, then you must create!
(00:DAVE WHITE) Ever notice Wolf 3D is only 2D??!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Too true, it is not too difficult to develop a 2D engine
with increasing image sizes. The key thing that I note when people try to
follow a fad is that they do a specific aspect right, yet neglect the
broader picture.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, I have seen a clone of Wolf3d that is OK, but a
completely different type of game...You have to rescue your dog from an
evil group of aliens.....I think that each game is different (obviously)
and should be judged on its merits alone, not as a member
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Maybe you guys could tell us why you chose Shareware
to market your programs. And if that will always be the case?
(01:SAM MISEMER) One of the reasons we chose Shareware to market is because
of the ease of marketing. I really don't like the idea of spending $50-or
$60 bucks for a game that I get home and don't like! Shareware is the
perfect solution to that!
(00:DAVE WHITE) I'd like to ask how well the games do in shareware? For
instance, is it enough to make a paycheck or two?
(01:SAM MISEMER) So far, no Dave, but we'll keep plugging away at it. Our
business is fairly new, so we have a pretty high overhead right now. To
keep up the level of customer support we want, it gets pretty expensive.
(02:KEN FOSTER) As far as supply a salary, not very many people get rich in
writing Shareware, if the only reason you program is to simply make money
then Shareware may not be the perfect choice. But it is one of the more
rewarding ones.
(03:DUANE MORIN) <--- Struggling Shareware Author.... ARGH! Why does
everyone say that there's no money in it?!?! <GRIN>
(01:SAM MISEMER) Hi, Duane, my name is Sam and I am a struggling shareware
author. <g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) SSAA Struggling Shareware Authors Anonymous
(03:DUANE MORIN) Rats...beat me to it!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, I wouldn't say that there is NO money in it, but it
is very difficult to break into the money end of shareware. Your programs
must REALLY stand out!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) And it usually takes time before the checks come in.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Do you get many registrations for the games?
(01:SAM MISEMER) We have received a decent number of registrations. The
amazing thing to me is the diversity of places we are receiving
registrations from!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Let's just say that we're not making a fortune at it. <g>
(03:DUANE MORIN) And you feel you've hit on something, with the windows
line? I have to admit, I don't associate anyone else's name with that field
yet... Maybe you guys will be the ground breakers!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, keep watching Shadoware! We would like to take over
Epic's title as The New Name in Windows Entertainment! (I think that won't
be too hard...<g>)
(00:DAVE WHITE) Tim (Sweeney) are you watching??!
(02:KEN FOSTER) One thing to mention though, is that under DARKSoft we will
not be programming exclusively in the Windows environment.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Tell us more about DARKSoft!
(00:DAVE WHITE) And tell us more about how the merger will be made.. Will
Shadoware still exist?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Darksoft is a joint venture between Shadoware and BYTOR.
Together we have the capabilities of some amazing ground breaking concepts
in gaming.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ken has found a soul mate (another ASM programmer), and
some of the things they have already accomplished are pretty impressive to
even an old gamer like me!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Shadoware will still exist, but we will slowly begin to
emphasize the connection in DarkSoft The release will all depend on how
quickly the legal mumbo jumbo goes, as well as the beta testing.
(01:SAM MISEMER) We don't want to give the impression that we are a flighty
company that releases a few products and then fades away...but most new
development will take place under the DarkSoft label.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I'm still confused. After some time, how will Darksoft
exist? As part of Shadoware, or teamed up equally, or.....??
(01:SAM MISEMER) DarkSoft will be an entirely new corporation that
will exist separate of Shadoware. We don't want to dissolve Shadoware for
various different reasons, the most important of which is product support.
(02:KEN FOSTER) DarkSoft will exists as a sole development company, we are
in the process of Incorporating and filing all the application docs.
Shadoware will be like a link with DarkSoft, but all of the new releases
that we co-develop will be under DarkSoft.
(03:DUANE MORIN) If this is a rude question, then skip it, but I'm
curious...can I ask how old you guys are?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Well, I am let me think, um...oh...well... 26.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Well, I look like I'm about 18 or 19, in fact I get carded
everywhere I've ever been, even overseas. I'm actually 24.
(03:DUANE MORIN) So you're getting started in business fairly early, then.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Can you tell us about what your hobbies are outside of
computers!?
(02:KEN FOSTER) Hobbies: well I enjoy rappelling, caving, diving, climbing ,
hiking, computing, BBSing, programming, and just plain ol' having a good
time.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I like watching Star Trek, reading, and working on my tan!
( a basic computer nerd I guess...)
(02:KEN FOSTER) Yes, it is true, The Board of Trade will be home to yet
another great company!!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) I understand that the Board of Trade will also be the
Home of DARKSoft, right?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Yes, that is true. The Board of Trade will be the home of
DarkSoft's shareware releases, as well as the New PC_HELP forum that is a
joint sponsorship of Shadoware, Bytor Computer Systems, and the Board of
Trade!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Yes, we are pretty excited about the PC Help Forum.
Some thing new!
(01:SAM MISEMER) I would like to inquire about your age Duane?
(03:DUANE MORIN) :) Fair's fair. I'm 24.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, out with it. How about you Dave? <g>
(00:DAVE WHITE) 29.... Perpetually!
(01:SAM MISEMER) And Rich?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Same as Dave!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Trying to learn about programmers in the field now so I
know what to expect
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, ok...sounds like we have a fair representation of the
computer users here tonight. What would you (Rich, Dave, and Duane) like
to see in the future of computer gaming?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Lots and lots of AI. If it doesn't have a computer
opponent of some kind, I usually won't play it. No sense competing against
myself. Things with some educational value are a plus, too. I plan on
checking out DeQuoter when I can
(01:SAM MISEMER) Sounds good. I feel that way myself. If the computer
beats me, I can always turn it off.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Which happens a lot :>
(01:SAM MISEMER) Take a look at Dequoter then Duane, it has educational
quotes such as "Come up and see me sometime." - Mae West - !
(00:DAVE WHITE) I'd like to see high speed, GREAT graphics, digital sounds,
great storylines, and other virtual reality type things. The more VR the
better!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) More virtual reality type stuff. Maybe some better
sports games...
(03:DUANE MORIN) There's that expression again...."virtual reality". Has
that attained buzzword status yet?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) At least, even see it on the news.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I think that 3D (true 3d) will become very common in the
next few years. But there is always room for a good scrolling arcade game!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Believe me!! You'll be seeing that and a lot more.
Companies are just now beginning to realize what they can do. (i.e.: speed,
higher video modes using VESA standards, stereo sound, as well as developed
story lines).
(00:DAVE WHITE) Plus I can see that we now have the hardware cheaply
available to be able to push the limits.
(02:KEN FOSTER) And it just keeps getting better!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Virtual reality means may different things to many
different people. Like religion. It is kind of hard to pin down. Do you
want to see VR suits like in Lawnmower man, Dave?
(03:DUANE MORIN) But, Sam, it shouldn't be that. VR has very specific
definitions. What most people these days refer to is "non immersive" VR.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I think that would be a great experience Sam, but the
social ramifications are a little scary. I really liked the concept of
increased capacity for knowledge through VR that Lawnmower Man hinted at.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Horrid movie. Good effects, horrid movie.
(02:KEN FOSTER) While the technology exists for true VR, it is not
generally available to most of the public. That may change very soon in
the near future though.
(03:DUANE MORIN) I guess I'm just a purist when it comes to technology.
<g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) Not a fault, but a need :>
(01:SAM MISEMER) Clue me in a little there Duane, what do you mean by
"non-immersive"?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Sam, by definition, it's "immersive" when you put on the
goggles, or the suit, or climb into the CAVE...whatever. "Non immersive"
is what we see at this level...3d graphics that LOOK really good, but when
you turn your head you still see your living room.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, I gotcha. I agree with Dave that the possibilities
for expanding our horizons are pretty much limitless, but it does give me a
little bit of a turn.
(02:KEN FOSTER) VR can be thought of on a type of scale, the further you go
up the scale the more "Reality" occurs. Soon it will begin to effect all
of the senses, not simply the visual aspect.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Good point Ken, what do you see the level of reality
at in say ten years?
(02:KEN FOSTER) In ten years, the costs of developing, at a minimum of home
use, will be seeing visor systems as well as portable systems, that can be
used anywhere , anytime.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I don't like some of the things I see like Nickelodeon
advertising "real reality" as opposed to virtual reality. Perhaps the
public isn't ready for it? The Frankenstein complex?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Wow...Im loving the sociological terminology getting
thrown around here! <g> Re: Frankenstein complex, probably the opposite.
The media is pushing VR as a huge buzzword, and people will eat it up
without ever really knowing what it is. I mean, look at Nintendo's power
glove.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Good point Duane. I agree with you, but wanted to hear
what everyone else had to say. (I remember Something from my Intro. Soc.
class!) <g>
(03:DUANE MORIN) (B.Sc. in Society Technology Studies, Sam. <GRIN>)
(00:DAVE WHITE) I think that we're going to see a lot of activity in the
educational area.. Multimedia is perfect for kids, and the basic premise
of increased knowledge through VR is a distinct possibility. IMHO
(03:DUANE MORIN) Im gonna stop yacking for a bit and ask another
question...how about CD ROM stuff?
(02:KEN FOSTER) CD ROM's will continue to improve. mainly the MPC standard
will have to be raised in the next few years.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Part of the problem for the shareware programmer comes
from the inaccessibility of CD ROM technology. The more inexpensive it
becomes, the more people will be writing for it.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Ken, (heres another one you can skip), what do you feel
about Microsoft being THE standard setter? Like MPC, for example.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Microsoft is not really a trend setter anymore. In
actuality they do not even do very much in house programming. They simply
hire out to other companies. They are riding on a wave, and while I think
it will probably go on for a long time it is not the "p
(00:DAVE WHITE) MPC... HA! What a joke. I have a MPC compliant machine
that is so slow it'd never be able to handle full multimedia... I don't
like a company creating standards..
(01:SAM MISEMER) Too true, Look at IBM.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Exactly, the standards are too low to see the true benefits
of Multimedia.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Didn't want to start a Microsoft war, but it's usually
inevitable. <g>
(00:DAVE WHITE) Bill (Gates) are YOU watching??!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) You can't argue with success, though. Microsoft has
created 2,000 millionaires, their employees!
(01:SAM MISEMER) I think that Big Brother Bill is probably not too worried
about us, but maybe he should be!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Bill Gates, luckiest man alive. Right place at the right
time.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Microsoft is well known for learning new technology from
companies and then dumping the company. Not that it's not a spirit of
capitalism.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Maybe you could get him for CyberScape LIVE! ?
(00:DAVE WHITE) Bill was just like you at one time...!
(01:SAM MISEMER) This is true! Well, maybe I am a little better looking...
(00:DAVE WHITE) They said they might send a rep, but no Bill Gates...
Boooo
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Hiss
(01:SAM MISEMER) Maybe you could get him for Pasco BBS Mag, Rich?
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) He wont return my calls. It's a long story <grin>.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I bet you'd get to talk to him if you told him you'd get
his Porsche out of customs!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Or find a way to build his house for less than 28 mil.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Let's get back to gaming. How far does everybody want to
see VR go on the gaming field?
(00:DAVE WHITE) Until I can't tell the difference!
(03:DUANE MORIN) VR right now is getting a bad rep in regard to games.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Any specific references, Duane?
(03:DUANE MORIN) Sam, I could dig up the ACM article but not easily.
(00:DAVE WHITE) I want A Holodeck, and I want it now! <stomp>
(02:KEN FOSTER) One holodeck coming up!:> :<
(00:DAVE WHITE) Good, and a replicator too?!
(02:KEN FOSTER) As long as you can supply a 100 gougle power supply!
(01:SAM MISEMER) But I've got dibs on Luaxana Troi...<g>
(03:DUANE MORIN) A well known VR person said, at a recent conference, "How
come the first publicly available VR game has two people trying to kill
each other?" It's an interesting point, though. Why do violence and sex
always drive the technology?
(00:DAVE WHITE) Both are basic instincts, survival and reproduction.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Actually, Dave, the defense was this: These games are
expensive. You need to pump the players adrenaline quickly to make them
feel like they're getting the most out of their money in a short time.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Good point. Stay away from taboo subjects until it has
become a little more public support.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) The public must be supporting these taboo subjects.
That is why they are the most successful, marketing wise.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I as a programmer and businessman ( sort of) don't agree
with that philosophy. If the product is a good one, it will market itself!
(almost) Look at the Greens, we have converted Dave so that he risks his
job to play!
(00:DAVE WHITE) No comment! <g> Just keep those boss keys in or make 'em
in Windows! <g>
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Wait 'til he sees some of DARKSoft's programs!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Sam, that's circular, though. If the game doesn't market
well, then you can technically say "Well it wasn't a good one." even if the
case was the lack of sex and violence.
(01:SAM MISEMER) I feel that VR in gaming is going to see a dramatic rise
in the next few years going back to what Ken said earlier.
(03:DUANE MORIN) People know of Sega's intention to market a VR visor game
this Christmas?
(02:KEN FOSTER) DarkSoft will make advances in that area. Especially in
the interactiveness of games.
(00:DAVE WHITE) They also did 3d glasses before... Didn't go over too big.
They used liquid crystal shutters to fool the eyes. Unfortunately they
gave the brain a headache! <G>
(03:DUANE MORIN) VR is a much bigger buzzword now, though. Will be an
interesting experiment.
(02:KEN FOSTER) The idea is a good one, but the public needs better
equipment than a Sega to get the full effect.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, true. But, there are a lot of other topics out there.
Not to be a prude, but I would like to see more of the other types (at
least some of the time). <g>
(03:DUANE MORIN) Ken, that suggesting that an IBM platform is better
technology?
(01:SAM MISEMER) Of course a PC is a much better platform! I say this
because I don't have a Sega...
(02:KEN FOSTER) Definitely, while the IBM in reality is based on a few bad
designing flaws, i.e. memory access and nonstandard graphics and sound
capabilities. It is far superior to game toys.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Toys? Ouch. It's still a 68000 family chip, and that
does pretty well for the Amiga. But, no sense in starting hardware wars.
<g>
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Sam, maybe you'd like to mention the Programming
column you guys do for the Pasco BBS Magazine.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Thanks Rich, sure! I recommend it as required reading for
any programmer! It has great stuff in it every month! Just last month, we
release the way to triple processor speed as a software command (NOT!!!)
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Will you guys be designing programs other than games?
(01:SAM MISEMER) We have some ideas in that field, Rich, but right now our
major focus is on gaming.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Yes, we can't be specific, at this point, but we are
nearing completion on a smaller project with DarkSoft. It is more of a
utility than a game.
(00:DAVE WHITE) How about ON-LINE games. Any plans for that? I'm very
interested in bringing these great games to a level where I can call a
friend and challenge him via modem.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Better, Dave, what about dial-in Multi-Player games?
(00:DAVE WHITE) Exactly.. Like the ChatJack Door I have here on CyberScape.
(02:KEN FOSTER) Dave and Duane are getting into the idea, DarkSoft is doing
a few things in that area. but shhhhhh! it's a secret!!
(00:DAVE WHITE) We're getting warm!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Networks, modems, standalones, we want the entire market.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Go ahead Ken!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Imagine a game, so real, that you can play anywhere,
anyone, anytime, with more than a few people.
(01:SAM MISEMER) As one of the 4 officers of DarkSoft, I think I can be
very specific and say that we are definitely working on some exciting
things! <g>
(02:KEN FOSTER) But I can't get too detailed, actually I've probably said
as much as I can on that part!!
(00:DAVE WHITE) Shucks....
(03:DUANE MORIN) Random question.....will the soon to be rash of "PDA"
(personal digital assistants) come into your plans anywhere
(02:KEN FOSTER) Actually no, info is pretty scarce, I have not see to much
on their capabilities yet.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Nor have I.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Interesting, I thought I had ya there!<g> If there's
anything that will make stuff "play anywhere, anyone, anytime" it may very
well be those.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Are you referring to PIM's and the like?
(03:DUANE MORIN) No, a PDA is effectively a palmtop computer, but more than
what's currently available.
(02:KEN FOSTER) That's true, but the demos I have seen, will not be able to
handle it for a few years.
(03:DUANE MORIN) Picture, for example, a notebook, calendar, phone dialer,
modem, and fax machine, all rolled into the palm of your hand.
(01:SAM MISEMER) OK, I see. I don't have much info on that either.
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) That is definitely the way things are headed! Smaller,
Faster...
(01:SAM MISEMER) Ok, I'm picturing that, but it sure looks funny!
(03:DUANE MORIN) I like to be up on all the gossip. <g> But I think Ken's
seen more live demos than me. I can't get my company to send me to Comdex.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Well, we're going to wrap up the interview now. Thank you
both. It was a very insightful evening! I'm sure we'll see much more of
Shadoware and DarkSoft!!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Thanks Dave, maybe Sam could tell us best way to get
in touch with Shadoware or DarkSoft.
(01:SAM MISEMER) Call the Board of Trade, and leave personal mail to Ken
Foster or me Sam Misemer, we'll type back at you right away!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Thanks
(01:SAM MISEMER) Thanks for this opportunity, Dave!
(03:DUANE MORIN) Great interview! I know I learned a lot.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Thanks to all! Rich, Duane... This was an excellent chat!
(02:KEN FOSTER) Good night!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Talk to you all soon!
(04:RICHARD ZIEGLER) Thanks, see you all soon.
(00:DAVE WHITE) Thanks guys... It's been great! Sam, we should follow up
after the merger!
(01:SAM MISEMER) OK, let's do it!
(03:DUANE MORIN) G'night Sam, pleasure chatting with you!
(01:SAM MISEMER) Thanks guys, I had fun.
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-- End of Session -- June 27th, 1993 --
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- In Conclusion -
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Special Guest Speakers:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sam Misemer
Ken Foster
Shadoware
P.O. Box 0155
New Port Richey, FL 34656-0155
CompuServe ID - 72302,563
(Also can be reached via E-Mail on Board of Trade BBS)
Conference Host:
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~~~~~~~~~~~
The Pasco BBS Magazine is a FREE monthly on-line magazine. Each issue will
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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