WordZap - Windows 32-bit Version 3.67 ==================================================== Thanks for trying WordZap -- the Action Word Game! Version 3.67 adds ICQ support, SOWPODS, and other new features. It requires Win95 or NT-4 with Service Pack III applied. Use the 16-bit version for Win3.x. **************************************************** Installation: (1) Close any other programs you are running. If you have ICQ, make sure it is shut off. (2) Read the rest of the readme file below. (3) Close this window to continue. **************************************************** Changes from 3.66: We added a splash screen to let you choose which game you want to play and made a few internal changes. Changes from 3.64: We think we have fixed the ICQ problem which was making it hard for some players to connect. A number of other bugs have been fixed so 3.66 should be solid. Changes from 3.60: (1) We have moved our website to http://wordzap.com This version reflects the change. (2) The dictionary has been extended to include words that UK Scrabble(R) users use - known as OSW or "Official Scrabble Words". The combination of OSW and the US OSPD ("Official Scrabble Players Dict- ionary) gives "SOWPODS" (it's an anagram folks!) which is used in international Scrabble Matches. "Esoteric" words are now called "Extra words" and you may choose US (OSPD), UK (OSW) or both (SOWPODS). You need to be registered to use all the extra dictionaries. (3) When playing online, WordZap now uses the smaller of the two dictionaries selected by each of the opponents. This rule also applies to Optional-S words and Abridged words. (4) WordHai(R) is no longer offered to registered players. Please keep version 3.60 or earlier if you want to keep playing WordHai(R). WordHai is now available on MSN as part of "Mind Aerobics". The show also includes two other word games I designed plus several games designed by Alexey Pajitnov (of Tetris fame). If you are an MSN subscriber, give them a try. (5) We have added a Beginners Ladder - where you play LongZap. When it gets full, players at the top will "graduate" to make room for new beginners. (6) When you win a ladder match you will be able go directly to the reporting page. (At some point this will be fully automated - but not yet). (7) Your free trial period is 20 sessions. After that time, WordZap exits spontaneously after about five minutes - except on Sundays. (8) Direct Play has been updated by Microsoft to 5.0A. The connection software has been improved. Hopefully this will reduce connection problems. (9) We have added "timely tips" which pop up and tell you what to do when a new situation arises. They can be shut off once you know what to do. (A) We have added ICQ support. Click your opponent to get the floating menu and select "Internet Phone/Games". (B) The registration code has added 2 digits. If you were previously registered use a 0 in the third position. (C) A number of bugs have been fixed. Fixed problem using Spanish dictionary. **************************************************** Bug Alert! If you are trying to play someone via the IGames lobby sometimes it won't complete the connection. If re- booting doesn't fix it you may have too old a version of Direct Play. To fix this, install the latest version of WordZap and (important) reboot just before you install. Another cause is that one of you is behind a firewall. If this does not fix it I would very much like to know. If you do find bugs, please report them to mica@crick.com. ****************************************************** Registration: We put a lot of time and effort into making WordZap the best word game. Many of you have said a lot of nice things about WordZap and that is appreciated. We would like to think that if you enjoy playing WordZap, that you will help support our efforts. We're currently putting four kids through College and really do need the money! Please note: We give free registration if you report a significant new bug. Have fun! --Mike Crick PS If you are installing and get the message: "FILE.XXX is currently locked" First ignore it, then reboot and install WordZap again.