This is a number of firsts for me: my first game, my first Mac program, and my first Pascal program. It probably would have been better to start out with something smaller, as opposed to this colossus, but too late now. Anyway, as a result, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
• This is the first release, and there are a few known bugs that I have not yet been able to snuff out. I would appreciate bug reports from anyone who finds one, even if it is one I already know about. Registered users will of course automatically receive updates with bug fixes, and I will post unregistered bug-fixed versions to the boards when appropriate.
• MotR requires System 7, 256 colors, and a monitor no smaller than 13". It has worked on most color systems available, although it doesn't seem to like a Mac SE/30 with an external color monitor. I haven't been able to figure that one out yet. If anyone finds another configuration which the game dislikes, please let me know.
• Those who register will receive a disk in the mail with a registered version of the game. This version will contain more missions, a save game feature, and a high score list. However, some of these features are still under development, and should be out by the fall of '94. I will immediately send receipts to those of you who register when I receive your fee, but I ask that you please be patient in regards to the goody-packed registered version of the game. After all, I'm still a student and have other commitments...
• One feature that is still under development is the ship's computer; specifically, the library information. The Galactic Map works, and can be used to obtain limited information about each planet or starbase, but more detailed information as well as library information about the Reliant is not available. Since this information plays no role in the currently available mission, I decided to leave it out until later. Future versions of the game will contain missions for which this computer information is strategically critical.
• Unfortunately, Missions! is a memory glutton and requires a miminum of 3 Mb RAM to run properly, perhaps even a little but more if you can spare it. It will be some time before I can address this problem and optimize memory usage, so I hope this does not present a huge problem to most of you. Unfortunately, virtual memory sometimes causes noticeable delays in the action and sound, so it would be best if it was turned off during play.
• Another problem is with color. Sometimes, if other applications are running before Missions! is launched, dramatic color discrepancies may emerge. If this happens, try quitting all other open applications before launching Missions!.
• Included as part of the game is a shareware True-Type font, SteelWolf. It was created by Tom C. Lai and the shareware fee is $10 for those who would like to use it themselves. He can be reached at 13982 Choco Rd., Apple Valley, CA 92307-5526.
• The software license thing: DoD Productions does not grant permission to distribute Missions! for profit in any form. Non-profit distribution of the software is allowed providing it is not modified in any way, and all files are distributed together, including the documents and this file. Okay, enough of that.
• I'm eager to hear all comments and suggestions about the game. If you have bug reports, criticisms, ideas to make the game better, or just want to say "Thanks for all of the agony", feel free to contact me. I can be reached via Internet (U33393@uicvm.uic.edu), CompuServe (74542,360), America Online (DoDProdctn), or by regular mail at the following address:
