Copyright: Copyright ®


Contents
About MechWarrior 2/NetMech for Windows® 95

PLEASE NOTE:  This is the Help file for the full version of MECHWARRIOR 2.  Some items contained in this file (for example, NetMech) do not apply to this Interactive Preview.  We have included the full Help file in order to give you a glimpse of what's in store for you when you purchase the full version!

Activision is a registered trademark of Activision, Inc. (C) 1996 Activision, Inc. MechWarrior, BattleTech and 'Mech are registered trademarks and NetMech is a trademark of FASA CORPORATION. (C) 1996 FASA CORPORATION.  All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.

Windows® 95 Gameplay

While MechWarrior 2 for DOS garnered a number of industry accolades, including PC Gamer's "Editor's Choice," MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 aims to surpass that mark. Through a number of key enhancements, MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 improves gameplay in already stunning 3D rendered worlds and enables anyone to quickly become a skilled MechWarrior.

DirectX: Better Performance

By utilizing Microsoft's DirectX API's, MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95, turns in performance in a multitasking environment that would impress even the die-hard DOS programmer.

DirectDraw, Microsoft's Direct graphics API for games, which allows for double-buffering, allows MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 to show faster frame rates than the original DOS version. This is a difference all MechWarriors will appreciate when in the heat of battle.

DirectInput allows MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 to support all 100% Windows® 95-compatible input devices, including joysticks, gamepads, and virtual reality trackers/helmets. MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 is pre-configured with default settings for some of these input devices, but any 100% Windows® 95 compatible input device can easily be configured from within the game shell.  MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 even supports use of a head-tracker and joystick simultaneously.

DirectPlay, Microsoft's network API, allows MechWarriors to battle their friends in over 20 different missions in any 'Mech chassis, over any 100% Windows® 95 compatible network.  For more information, see NetMech for Windows® 95 in this section.

On-Line Help

MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 has incorporated the entire Codes and Procedures of the Warrior Caste into a Help File accessible on-line from any point within the game shell.  Now, players can inquire about topics ranging from Customizing a 'Mech to Combat Tactics, without losing their place in the game.  On-Line help also includes a keyboard reference which summarizes the basic keyboard commands for beginning players, as well as a quick HUD reference chart.  Comparison charts for 'Mechs and weapons are available on-line as well, which will assist players when customizing their 'Mechs.

QuickTips & Simplified Interface

Because many players of MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 will not be experienced DOS gamers, we have implemented the QuickTips system which is designed to lead the new player through the game experience.  It offers suggestions and explanations at various points in the game which can be invaluable to the novice MechWarrior. Windows® 95 standard interface elements have been added to simplify navigation through the game shell.

AutoPlay

As part of its complete Windows® 95 functionality, MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95, allows the user to jump right into combat, by supporting AutoPlay.  The user inserts the CD, and the  title screen launches. After installation, the user is ready to play MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95 or NetMech for Windows® 95.  From the title screen, the user can also uninstall the game, access the technical help file, and electronically register their copy of MechWarrior 2 for Windows® 95.

NetMech for Windows® 95

Features

Among the first applications to use Microsoft's DirectPlay, NetMech for Windows® 95 delivers the long-awaited multiplayer functionality demonstrated on the original DOS sku demo. The game offers the user more than 15 different 'Mechs to choose from, including the Tarantula and Elemental, available only via cheat codes in the original simulation. Fourteen different mission scenarios, including free-for-all and team missions provide vastly different terrain and environmental conditions to challenge even the most battle-worn MechWarrior. Canyon, ice caverns, mazes, minefields, cities, and forests set the stage for explosive combat action.

By using Microsoft's DirectPlay, Netmech for Windows® 95 supports all 100% Windows® 95-compatible network transport protocols. The preferred network transport protocols are IPX and TCP/IP. NetMech for Windows® 95 also supports head-to-head modem play and will incorporate, in a later release, on-line gaming services.