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* A Z A R I A N beta test version 0.87 *
* *
****** THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN TESTED ON A 1040ST WITH A COLOR MONITOR ****
* IT WORKS BEST WITH AN ATARI STYLE JOYSTICK *
* *
* - It will NOT work on a monochrome monitor. *
* *
* - It requires TOS in ROM. *
* *
* - Remove all RAMDISKS, AUTO folder programs, and desk accessories!!! *
* *
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CHANGES SINCE VERSION 0.85:
- 520ST compatibility! TOS in ROM is required. NO OTHER PROGRAMS LOADED PLEASE!
- Low memory report. If you cannot run the program, it will tell you first!
- Keyboard support using cursor keys and space bar. ESC aborts and quits game.
- Game pause using "P".
- Offensive action by new basestar, ala BOSCONIAN. VERY, VERY NASTY!!!
- pods require 2 hits to kill (stop launching of charges)
- main base requires about 20 hits to destroy
- Homing mines, only if visible... keep moving...
- Elimination of circular pods and starbase for now.
- High score click and repeat editing. Last name entered can be used again
by pressing return at the first character position.
- FASTER screen I/O!
- Shields utililization!! Beware of low level.
INSTRUCTIONS:
AZARIAN is a space strategy game with arcade speed. You command the LF-9
starfighter, a agile and rugged craft designed for quick attacks.
Your enemy, the evil Thraxx, a lizard race that specialize in advanced
organics for transport and weapontry, has spread across the galaxy and now
threatens to dominate the Terran frontier. They, unfortunately, refuse
negoitations... That's where you come in...
YOUR MISSION OBJECTIVES:
- Beware the Thraxx aggressors.
- Destroy as many basestars as possible.
- Survive as long as possible.
VERSION LIMITATIONS:
**** IMPORTANT ****
This implementation lacks many of the features that will be released in the
final version. The sole purpose of this beta test release is to gather user
feedback on the user interface, the overall FEEL of the game, and to
implement as many useful suggestions as possible. This version contains:
- Full movement capability (Joystick LEFT/RIGHT = turn, FORWARD = thrust)
- Front laser firing (FIRE button)
- Homing photon torpedoes (closest enemy object) (PULL back on stick)
(You have to be very close and not too fast. Primitive algorithm for now)
- Asteroids (Split into 2 tiny asteroids that MOVE when hit, ala ASTEROIDS)
- Mines (Proximity detection NOT active)
- Space satellites (Green and white pole-like objects) (Will be used for
enemy communication...)
- Basestar (Green globes. They are very nasty, don't get too close!!)
- Blossoms - Blue twirling units that contain 4 enemy Thraxx fighters. (Shoot
the blossom and the fighters will be released - difficult to catch at once,
as there is no organized flight plan (attacking you) yet...
- Energy, Shields, and laser temperature indicators (watch these!!)
A rapid volley of lasers can overheat (disable) lasers.
Thrust and weapon systems draw from your energy reserve. Watch your ENERGY!
- Score and high score screens. Top ten saved to disk.
- Dynamic explosions!!
- Laser, Photon, Thrust, and explosion sound effects.
- Keyboard support with cursor keys and space bar...
CREATION:
AZARIAN is being developed by myself as an attempt to develop top quality
software for the ATARI ST. It was created using ST GAME TOOLBOX, another
product currently finishing development that provides over 100 commented
and useful routines for game design, including object movement, MIDI/music,
color effects, and lots more. It currently supports ALCYON and MEGAMAX C
compilers. Full source code is included. Send me a note if you are a C game
programmer and are interested. Complete AZARIAN source code will also be
provided with the final version, for a bit more money. I believe in not
only providing good software, but showing others who are interested just
how it is done...
COMMENTS:
Any comments, criticisms, or otherwise are welcomed. This is a somewhat new
concept, asking the public what they think/want before releasing a game. If
you have ANY feedback on AZARIAN, then please direct it to the address below.
Oh yes, Dealers and distributors are most welcome to contact me.
David Thomas Stewart CompuServe [73220,1365]
Synergy Development
P.O. BOX 3132
Cambridge, Ontario
Canada N3H 4S6
(519) 740-2878 (VOICE)
Thank you for your upcoming words. I hope you like AZARIAN V0.87!