-MAELSTROM FAQ------------------------------------------------------------ [display this document using the typeface Monaco 9 for best results] -PURPOSE------------------------------------------------------------------ FAQ is an acronym for Frequently Asked Questions. This FAQ is an attempt to provide a comprehensive source of information about the game Maelstrom, and was created in response to questions that are frequently raised by our customers. We hope you find it useful. If there are any questions you have about Maelstrom that are not answered in this FAQ, please get in touch with us so we can include them in future revisions. -CREDITS------------------------------------------------------------------ Author: Andrew Welch Linux Port: Sam Lantinga Contributors: "Cajun" David Richard, John Haley, Ed "DAMAGE" Ota, Gayle Haarr Thanks to: David Freitas Copyright (C) 1995 by Ambrosia Software, Inc. -FAQ HISTORY-------------------------------------------------------------- Version: 2.0.4L Created: 5/24/95 Last Revised: 12/16/96 -DISCLAIMER--------------------------------------------------------------- This document is provided as is, without any express or implied warranties. While every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this document, the author assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. -CONTENTS----------------------------------------------------------------- This FAQ answers the following questions: (* Indicates an updated or new question since the last version of this FAQ) GENERAL - What is Maelstrom? * - What computer do I need in order to play Maelstrom? - Who makes Maelstrom and how can I get in touch with them? * - Where can I obtain Maelstrom? - What is the latest version of Maelstrom? - How much does Maelstrom cost, and how do I pay for it? - Why should I register (pay for) Maelstrom? - My license code is invalid; what's wrong? * - Will Maelstrom ever be ported to DOS? - Will there be future versions of Maelstrom? GAME PLAY - What are the point values for the various baddies in Maelstrom? - What does the "luck" yummy do? - How can I pause or abort a game? - What is the optimal control configuration for playing Maelstrom? - When do comets/multipliers/supply canisters appear? - Is there such a thing as an "empty" supply canister? - Is there any kind of an end to the game? - How can I cheat while playing Maelstrom? - Do you have any hints or tips for playing Maelstrom? COMPATIBILITY (Linux) - What version of kernel and X11 do I need? - Do I need a mouse? - Do I need a sound card? - Where is the console version of Maelstrom? * - Will Maelstrom run in more than 256 colors? * - Will Linux Maelstrom use the alternate sound patches out there? - Will Maelstrom be ported to other UNIX operating systems? - How do I get rid of the "Can't open soundcard" warnings? - I have problems with stuck keys in the Linux console. - Can I play networked with other UNIX systems? - Can I play networked with other Macintosh systems? HISTORY - What does "Maelstrom" mean? - What language is Maelstrom written in? - Who did the artwork for Maelstrom? - When was Maelstrom first released? - How long did it take to create Maelstrom? -GENERAL------------------------------------------------------------------ [Q] - What is Maelstrom? [A] - Maelstrom is a fast action arcade-style game for the Macintosh that uses rendered 3D graphics, high speed animation, and four channel digitized sound effects. The end result is a nerve-wracking arcade game that is sure to leave blisters on your fingers. Maelstrom has been given a 4.27 out of 5.0 in Inside Mac Games's player satisfaction poll. This puts Ambrosia's feisty $15 shareware program among the top ten ranked games, with expensive retail titles such as Hellcats Over The Pacific, Myst, Sim City 2000, and F/A-18 Hornet. Maelstrom also received a four star rating from Macworld, won the Shareware Industry Award for Best Mac Program, MacUser's Shareware/Entertainment Software award, and MacUser UK's Best Entertainment Software Award. ..... [Q] - What computer do I need in order to play Maelstrom? [A] - Maelstrom works on any Macintosh with a 256 color display and at least 2.3mb of free memory. Unlike many arcade-style games, Maelstrom DOES work on 12" monitors. - Maelstrom also runs on Linux machines, running in X11 or at the console. If your machine runs X11 smoothly, you should have no problems playing Maelstrom. If you run the console version, make sure that your video card is one supported by SVGAlib; e.g. Cirrus Logic 5426. - Maelstrom also runs on Windows 95, using DirectX technology. ..... [Q] - Who makes Maelstrom and how can I get in touch with them? [A] - Maelstrom is published as shareware by Ambrosia Software, Inc., a Macintosh-only, shareware-only company. The game itself was written by Andrew Welch, the founder of Ambrosia. To get in touch with Ambrosia, you can use any of the following methods: US Mail: Ambrosia Software, Inc. PO Box 23140 Rochester, NY 14692 Voice: 716.325.1910 (technical support) 800.231.1816 (orders only) Fax: 716.325.3665 eMail: America Online: AmbrosiaSW Compuserve: 74777,1147 eWorld: AmbrosiaSW GEnie: AmbrosiaSW Internet: AmbrosiaSW@AOL.com - The Linux port was written as freeware, and authored with permission by Sam Lantinga. The Linux version is not supported by Ambrosia software. If you have questions about the Linux version of Maelstrom, or just want to say hello, Sam can be reached at: eMail: Internet: slouken@devolution.com ..... [Q] - Where can I obtain Maelstrom? [A] - The latest version of Maelstrom is always available in the Ambrosia Software, Inc. forums on the following services: o America Online: While you are signed on AOL, choose Keyword... from the GO TO menu, type AMBROSIA and hit the return key. o eWorld: While you are signed on eWorld, choose Go to Shortcut... from the PLACES menu, type AMBROSIA and hit the return key. o CompuServe: While you are signed on CompuServe, use GO word AMBROSIA to reach the Mac Vender D area, where Ambrosia Software, Inc. maintains a forum. o Internet: Maelstrom can be found at the following sites: mac.archive.umich.edu: /mac/space/maelstrom1.41.sea.hqx sumex-aim.stanford.edu: /info-mac/game/arc/maelstrom-141.hqx And last but not least, you can obtain Maelstrom from us for $5.00 to cover shipping & handling. You place your order by sending us a check via US mail, faxing us your credit card number & expiration date, sending us your credit card number & expiration date via electronic mail, or calling our 800 number order line: 800.231.1816. If you'd like a full color brochure featuring each of Ambrosia's products sent to you *free of charge*, simply drop us an eMail or call us at 716.325.1910 and we'll get it right off to you. Make sure you include your full name, address, and country when requesting a brochure. - The Linux version of Maelstrom is available on the internet via ftp from the following sites: ftp://ftp.devolution.com/pub/maelstrom/ ..... [Q] - What is the latest version of Maelstrom? [A] - The current version of Maelstrom is 1.4.1, dated 8/10/94. - The current version of Linux Maelstrom is 2.0.4, dated 12/16/96. ..... [Q] - How much does Maelstrom cost, and how do I pay for it? [A] - Maelstrom costs $15 US funds. Maelstrom has an integrated registration system that allows you to easily register it a number of ways: cash/check/money order/credit card via US mail, credit card via fax, or credit card via eMail. Simply launch Maelstrom, and click on the Register... button in the splash screen that appears. You'll be painlessly lead through the registration system. Ambrosia Software, Inc. also has a toll free order line. If you wish to purchase Maelstrom, you can use your Visa or Mastercard and call 800.231.1816. If you are calling outside the US/Canada region, or need technical assistance, please call 716.325.1910. We will process your order right over the phone, and give you a license code immediately. We will also take orders for sending disks with the Ambrosia Software products you are interested in, so that you can try them out and decide if you would like to purchase them (see below for more information). After we have processed your registration, you will receive a license code that you enter to complete the registration process. This code removes the shareware notices and personalizes your copy of the product. To enter your license code, simply double-click on the Ambrosia Software product for which you have purchased a license. A shareware notice will come up on the screen, with a few buttons along the bottom. To enter your license code, click on the Enter Code... button, and make sure you enter all of the license information exactly as it is shown. That's all there is to it. - The Linux version of Maelstrom is free, but if you want to send money or donate equipment, send e-mail to Sam Lantinga (slouken@devolution.com) If you have a Macintosh, I also recommend that you get the Macintosh version and register it with Ambrosia Software. They did an excellent job. :-) ..... [Q] - Why should I register (pay for) Maelstrom? [A] - We're attempting to offer high quality products at a low price, on a "try before you buy basis." Supporting us by registering Maelstrom -- assuming you like the game -- is the only way you can ensure that we will continue to produce more high quality software distributed as shareware. Beyond that, you will receive a license code that removes the shareware notices and personalizes Maelstrom with your name, giving you a legal copy of Maelstrom on your Macintosh. ..... [Q] - My license code is invalid; what's wrong? [A] - The license code you were sent is based on your name as you gave it to us when you registered. Make sure that you are entering your name EXACTLY as it appears on your registration confirmation. If you still have a problem with your license code not working, please get in contact with us and we will take care of the situation for you. ..... [Q] - Will Maelstrom ever be ported to DOS? [A] - Despite a number of requests, we have no plans to port Maelstrom over to DOS/Windows. We lack the know-how, time, and inclination to undertake such a project, so it doesn't look like it is going to happen. Sure is nice for the shoe to be on the other foot for once, no? :) - Linux, however, is a different story. *grin* I've also done an unofficial Win95 port so I could learn how to program DirectX/Win95 games, but I can't release it right now for copyright reasons. -- Sam Lantinga ..... [Q] - Will there be future versions of Maelstrom? [A] - We consider Maelstrom a "done" work. We will of course continue to maintain the game by fixing bugs and adding ancillary features, but short of a sequel, we will not be making changes to the basic game itself. Note: we are not announcing that there will be a sequel to Maelstrom, just that it is a possibility. ..... -GAME PLAY---------------------------------------------------------------- [Q] - What are the point values for the various baddies in Maelstrom? [A] - Maelstrom Scores Breakdown: Small Asteroid 300 points Medium Asteroid 100 points Big Asteroid 50 points Vortex 500 points Shenobi Autonominous Mine 700 points Star going Nova 1000 points Shooting a Steel Asteroid 100 points Destroying a Steel Asteroid 5000 points Large Enemy 1000 points Small Shenobi Fighter 2000 points [yes, the Steel Asteroids can be destroyed if you are persistent enough] ..... [Q] - What does the "luck" yummy do? [A] - Luck gives you a 1 in 3 chance of saving your ship when you should have died (you'll hear "Sweet!" if that happens) and a 1 in 3 chance of keeping your special weapons when you do die. Remember, lady luck is a fickle mistress. ..... [Q] - How can I pause or abort a game of Maelstrom? [A] - The Caps Lock key pauses Maelstrom while you are in the middle of a game, allowing you to take a breather or switch out to another application if you desire. To resume a game after you've paused it, simply depress the Caps Lock key. - In the Linux version, the PC keyboard 'Pause' key performs the same function as the Caps Lock key in the Macintosh version. This can also be configured in the Configure control panel of the Linux version. The ESC (escape) key aborts the game you're playing. This is not a "quit" key, but an "end the game because the pizza's here" key. It is only operational when you are playing the game. ..... [Q] - What is the optimal control configuration for playing Maelstrom? [A] - You should usually keep the Maelstrom controls set to the "factory default." Some new Apple keyboards don't allow for more than two keys to be down simultaneously, which can inhibit good game play. However the Shift, Option, Control, and Command keys don't count as real keys, so if you have a few of Maelstrom's controls set to these keys (as in the "factory default" controls), you'll have much better control over your ship. ..... [Q] - When do comets/multipliers/supply canisters appear? [A] - When a new level is started, Maelstrom determines ahead of time if a comet, multiplier, or supply canister will appear. These items will appear within 30 seconds after starting a wave, or they won't appear at all. ..... [Q] - Is there such a thing as an "empty" supply canister? [A] - There are no "dud" supply canisters. You may however get a present that you already have, or you may get a canister that gives you more shield power. ..... [Q] - Is there any kind of an end to the game? [A] - No. Maelstrom just continues to get harder and harder as you proceed through the game. There are as many waves in Maelstrom as you can handle. ..... [Q] - How can I cheat while playing Maelstrom? [A] - To access the "cheat mode," hit the 'L' key at the main screen. A dialog box will appear that allows you to choose the starting wave, number of lives, and turbofunk option. You won't be able to get a high score if you use this "cheat mode," but it is a good way to practice. ..... [Q] - Do you have any hints or tips for playing Maelstrom? [A] - I'm glad you asked, here's the official Ed "DAMAGE" Ota guide to total Maelstrom destruction: o Learn how to fly the ship so you do not become shield dependent. o Stay away from the borders, visibility is limited and you could get a nasty surprise. o Concentrate on one asteroid at a time, this will limit the amount of debris floating around. o Better to shoot at a distance, large asteroids shatter into small ones that could take you out. o Spread your shots out when shooting a large asteroid. This will take out some of the smaller ones. o Configure the ship control keys the way you feel most comfortable. o Shoot vortex's to get rid of them. o Shoot floating autonominous mines (6 hits Approx.), if you run away it will only track you down. o Keep moving when a Shenobi ship appears. Staying put makes you easy prey. o Move quickly to get canisters and bonus points. They do not stick around for long. Canisters make about three passes. o It is better to stop or turn around a steel asteroid with shots then it is to throw on the shields and get bounced across the screen. o A fast moving steel asteroid is like a derailed freight train, stay out of their way and try to slow them down with shots from the opposite direction. o Multiple shots will destroy a steel asteroid, but between the first shot and last shot is a very pissed off asteroid. o After eliminating the last asteroid you have a small amount of grace time. Bonus points will continue to add up, but if you lose a ship it is not counted against you. Move quickly and aggressively to attack Shenobi ships or pick up bonus items during this time. o Use a sweeping motion to get maximum effect from machine guns. o Spare the last asteroid for a while to rack up bonus points and benefits. Beware of the Shenobi ships though, don't get too greedy. o When using the spray gun to go after large asteroids, close in for the kill. This will allow you to eliminate all of the little asteroids after the first hit. o A circular motion will allow you to wipe out almost everything when using the long range shots. But there may be a few stubborn rocks you have to concentrate on. o The smaller Shenobi ships are smaller, "smarter" and more aggressive. It may be wise to avoid these mighty midgets. o As in life, always try to stay a step ahead of the game. Try to predict your next move, if you can do this, you will do well in Maelstrom. ..... -COMPATIBILITY-(LINUX)---------------------------------------------------- [Q] - What version of kernel and X11 do I need? [A] - Linux Maelstrom was developed using the 1.2 series kernel, SVGAlib version 1.2.6 and XFree86 version 3.1. It should run with any stable series Linux kernel that includes the VoxWare sound driver. ..... [Q] - Do I need a mouse? [A] - You don't have a mouse? Well, the only thing you _need_ a mouse for is the keyboard configuration control panel. If you never use the "configure controls" control panel, you'll be okay. ..... [Q] - Do I need a sound card? [A] - You don't need a sound card to play Maelstrom for Linux, however it is highly recommended that you have one. The sounds of Maelstrom are almost necessary for the full appreciation of the game. ..... [Q] - Where is the console version of Maelstrom? [A] - The same Linux binary will run in both X Windows and the Linux console. If you want to run the full-screen console version of Maelstrom, just run 'Maelstrom' from a console window. Beware, if your video card is not supported by SVGAlib, your screen might freeze, and you'll have to reboot with CTRL-ALT-DEL or the reset button (depending on your system configuration.) ..... [Q] - Will Maelstrom run in more than 256 colors? [A] - Yes, Maelstrom will run on displays supporting up to millions of colors. ..... [Q] - Will Linux Maelstrom use the alternate sound patches out there? [A] - Yes, it will play most patches that work with the Macintosh version. The trick is that you must get the _resource fork_ of the sound patch and name it "Maelstrom Sounds" in the Maelstrom library directory (by default /usr/local/lib/Maelstrom) Maelstrom fully understands the resource forks produced by the Macintosh emulator "Executor" available at www.ardi.com. You can use Executor to extract Macintosh archives and use the resulting resource forks -- the files beginning with "%". ..... [Q] - Will Maelstrom be ported to other UNIX operating systems? [A] - Yes!! * The port to Solaris 2.4 is complete. * The port to HPUX 9.03 is complete, except for the sound, which is not synchronous. * The port to the SGI (IRIX 5.3) is complete. * The port to ULTRIX 4.2 is complete except for sound. * The port to OSF 3.2A is on hold. (All ports are the work of Sam Lantinga, except for the SGI sound server, which was done in collaboration with Tom Mander and Alain Schmit) ..... [Q] - How do I get rid of the "Can't open soundcard" warnings? [A] - Turn the sound volume off by typing "0" on the main menu. ..... [Q] - I have problems with stuck keys in the Linux console. [A] - Try running Maelstrom with the '-nofade' option. The problem seems to be missed keyboard interrupts during the "fading" operation. ..... [Q] - Can I play networked with other UNIX systems? [A] - Yes!! Currently besides Linux, only the Solaris, SGI, and DEC versions of Maelstrom have been tested with networking, but they all should be able to play networked with each other. In my opinion some of the best net play is SGI v.s. SGI. :-) ..... [Q] - Can I play networked with other Macintosh systems? [A] - Unfortunately, no. Networked play is a UNIX-specific feature, and is not available for the original Macintosh Maelstrom. -HISTORY------------------------------------------------------------------ [Q] - What does "Maelstrom" mean? [A] - Maelstrom - 1. any large or violent whirlpool 2. a violently confused or dangerously agitated state of mind, emotion, affairs, etc. ..... [Q] - What language is Maelstrom written in? [A] - Maelstrom was written in THINK C 5.04. The main portion of the game is in approximately 9,000 lines of assembler. The non-critical and supporting portions of the game are in approximately 18,000 lines of plain old C. Maelstrom uses custom blitting routines for optimal animation performance. - The Linux version of Maelstrom was written completely in C++. ..... [Q] - Who did the artwork for Maelstrom? [A] - Ian Gilman did the animation and sprite artwork. Mark W. Lewis did the title screen artwork. Both are quite talented, in addition to being very nice guys. ..... [Q] - When was Maelstrom first released? [A] - Maelstrom was first released in November of 1992. - The Linux version of Maelstrom was first released in July of 1995. ..... [Q] - How long did it take to create Maelstrom? [A] - The initial (1.0.0) version of Maelstrom took approximately 4 months of sleepless days and nights to create. Subsequent versions (bug fixes, enhancements, etc.) have been done over the course of 2 years. - The initial port of Maelstrom to Linux took about 3 months of breaking dawns and bowls of Granola. :-) ..... -END----------------------------------------------------------------------