Arvoch Conflict Frequently Asked Questions
General Arvoch Conflict Questions:
- What is Arvoch Conflict?
- What features set Arvoch Conflict apart from other space-sims?
- I have an older laptop/desktop, will Arvoch Conflict work with such a system like your other games?
- What inspired you to create Arvoch Conflict?
- How do I upgrade my copy of the game to a newer version?
- I have a second control device, how can I get the game to detect it?
Video, Sound, and Performance Questions:
- The framerate is really low and/or some of the sound or music in the game crackles, what's wrong?
- Is there a way I can increase the texture details, some of them appear a bit fuzzy at certain angles/resolutions?
- Sometimes when I use alt-tab, certain textures get scrambled. Is there a way to fix this?
- The mouse/touchpad on my system is slow to respond in the game and/or main menu. Is there a way to fix this?
- When I use the Optimized (WM) screen mode, alt-tab doesn't minimize the game. Is there a way I can minimize the game so I can access my desktop?
- When I try to run the game, it closes with a 'D3D' error or a '3D Video Error! Unable to set required video properties.' message. What's wrong?
- I have a problem running the game and the suggestions here haven't fixed it. What can I do?
- What's the difference between the Optimized (WM) and Locked (FS) screen modes?
Gameplay and Multiplayer Questions:
- How do I rescue one of my wingmen after they eject?
- I can't complete campaign mission [number], what can I do?
- I use a router/firewall/ICS/NAT and can't get internet-based multiplayer to work?
- I try to host a game, but no one ever joins, or they tell me they can't join?
Buying and Registering:
- What if I lose my registration information, can I still get the key to the game I paid for?
- I'm part of a LAN party group or would like to buy several licenses for family/friends, can I get a discount for the game?
- I purchased the game and haven't received my registration key, what can I do?
- How does the order process and registration system work, can I install the game later on a new computer I buy?
- Is there a way to get the game on CD/DVD?
What is Arvoch Conflict?
- Arvoch Conflict is an advanced 3D space combat simulation designed to provide a reasonably realistic projection of future space fighter technology. AC expands on the original theme of space combat through new diverse objectives, hybrid physics system, flexible control options, unique graphics, full 3D cockpit (without the old fashioned flat 2D text/icon layer), unique technology incuding cloaking devices and EMP weapons, squadron command and loadout management, seamless environment transitions, easy-to-use modification options, and player feedback based improvements/changes. The aim for its flight model is to provide Newtonian physics with an enjoyable and manageable control system. Other design goals include diverse mission objectives including and beyond ship-to-ship combat, player controlled environment and mission scenarios, modification options, complete freedom of movement, multiple targeting methods, and an engaging story.
The graphics engine features high contrast lighting effects, realistic metal ship frames, lens flare coronas, missile contrails, advanced particle effects, seamless planet descents (including high speed friction glowing/contrails), a full 3D environmentally responsive cockpit (with cockpit glass reflections, gauge illumination, readouts rendered in full 3D, and proper light response), seamless open space to nebula cloud and planet transitions, HUD indicator shadows, a helmet visor based Heads-Up-Display, and more.
Arvoch Conflict also offers a feature packed template for space-sim fans to explore their own design ideas and concepts. The game provides numerous ways to customize and modify the game. You can import your own ship designs, cockpits, Heads-Up-Displays, indicators, missions, timed courses, and more. The modification options have been designed to be easy to use. In most cases, you simply place the right image/texture/model files in the right directory. For text modifications, you simply edit text files.
Arvoch Conflict focuses on a consistent 3D first person perspective viewpoint. You are in the cockpit and in the action with full control over your fighter and its weapons at all times. All command directives and combat decisions are made directly from the cockpit.
Arvoch Conflict is technically a space combat simulation, although there are many other objectives in the game such as building shield defense networks, mining asteroids for resources, rescuing stranded pilots, high speed reconnassaince, minefield clearing, object recovery, and more. It is not a space trading game. You won't be asked to buy something and move it somewhere else in search of a profit. Players interested in a similar gameplay style as Arvoch Conflict, but with focus on freeform space trading may want to check out Evochron.
What features set Arvoch Conflict apart from other space-sims?
- Below is a list of unique features found in Arvoch Conflict. Some other space-sims might have some of these features, but Arvoch Conflict is the only one that includes all of them in one game:
Diverse objectives beyond just combat, including defense shield network construction, reconnaissance, resource mining, pilot rescue, and item recovery.
Player controlled seamless planetary descents with surface station strike objectives.
Atmosphere effects (drag, lift, descent burn/glow, maneuvering limitations, etc).
Mouse, Keyboard, AND Joystick/Gamepad control options with remapping capability.
Gravity effects.
Fuel resource management (with ship specific capacities and various engine mode/thruster burn rates).
Dynamic battle conditions.
HUD based direction and orientation guides.
Player controlled scenarios with adjustable settings for every mission providing scaleable difficulty.
Three engine velocity modes featuring cruise, afterburner, and an open space continuously operating jump drive system.
3D cockpit with displays and readout text rendered as part of the 3D scene, not merely a 2D layer on top.
Realistic Newtonian physics with complete full freedom of movement control (including variable thruster controls for forward/reverse, left/right, up/down, pitch, roll, and yaw).
Easy-to-use modification options for HUD, cockpit, ship/item names, sound effects, and ships to customize the look and feel of the game.
All object Radar (with 3D spherical direction indication for objects, ships, and incoming missiles).
Target status, direction, and orientation tracking display (with optional range-sorted multiple target tracking).
Diverse capital ship weapons including beam cannons, shield inverter charges, and turret guns.
Directional shielding with augment control.
Automatic subsystem repairing.
Stealth/cloaking devices.
EMP weapons.
Multiplayer.
I have an older laptop/desktop, will Arvoch Conflict work with such a system like your other games?
- Most likely yes. While the minimum system requirements for Arvoch Conflict are much higher then for my other games, I did include optimizations to maximize performance on older/low end configurations. Your system will need a 64 MB 3D card with hardware T&L support (although on some systems, a 32 MB 3D card may work) and a processor at least in the 1.2-1.5 GHz range to be able to run the game with playable performance. Even then, the performance may not be acceptable. A lot depends on which 3D card you have and other hardware aspects related to performance.
What inspired you to create Arvoch Conflict?
- A long time fascination with space and science fiction lead to my interest in developing space games. The idea of being able to simulate piloting a spacecraft from a first person perspective was a very attractive concept to me. The appeal of creating games around that concept has been my inspiration for every game I've made from the first version of Star Wraith up through Arvoch Conflict. My hope for this project is that a large number of space-sim enthusiasts will enjoy playing, modifying, and customizing the game.
How do I upgrade my copy of the game to a newer version?
- The game can be updated, patched, and reinstalled using the same downloadable installation file available on the game's website. One installation file is used for the demo, full version, and all upgrades/patches. This helps make the process of installation and upgrading easy. You can upgrade/patch your copy of the game without interfering with the registration status for both the demo and full version. Your settings and player profiles are also preserved when upgrading.
I have a second control device, how can I get the game to detect it?
- If you have a secondary control device, such as rudder pedals or a seperate throttle control, you can instruct the game to detect the device by creating a text file in the game's directory named device2set.txt. On the first line, enter the number of the device slot you want to use as a secondary control device. It is usually best to have your primary control device listed in the first slot in the game controllers window (in the control panel) with the secondary device you want to use listed in a lower slot. When you launch the game, it will prompt you to activate or turn on your secondary control device. For most players, you can just leave your devices on and start the game, then click the mouse to continue. But if you have a control device that automatically forces other devices to lower slots (such as CH rudder pedals), you can turn off or unplug the device before launching the game which will cause the primary device you want to use to be detected first when you start the game. Then when the game prompts you to activate your secondary device, do so and you'll be able to use the secondary device in a lower slot. Once the secondary device is active, you'll be able to bind up to 3 axis channels on it in the Configure Controls menu. They will be available on axis channels 5, 6, and 7 in the menu.
The framerate is really low and/or some of the sound or music in the game crackles, what's wrong?
- Sound crackling/stuttering can occur if you use an on-board sound system (that is, the sound system is built into the motherboard) or your system has trouble keeping up with the resource demands of the game due to low 3D performance and/or low system resources. A 3D game uses a lot of your computer's resources and if your system has to devote some of its resources for audio or other tasks, it can reduce overall performance and cause sound or framerate problems (even on fast CPU's). The first thing to try is update the drivers for your 3D video card and sound system. If the problem continues, stop all non-essential running programs to free up as much of your system's resources as possible. These two steps usually solve any performance problems most players encounter.
Is there a way I can increase the texture details, some of them appear a bit fuzzy at certain angles/resolutions?
- Yes, simply turn off mipmap textures in the Options menu. However, for this option to run well and avoid pixel popping/texture shimmering, you will want to run the game in a very high resolution, have a good performing 3D card with at least 128 MB of dedicated video memory, and have a fast system. If the texture detail is too high for the resolution you are playing the game in and you still want to use the high detail textures, you may want to enable anti-aliasing in your video card settings to help reduce shimmering/popping.
Sometimes when I use alt-tab, certain textures get scrambled. Is there a way to fix this?
- Under most display modes and configurations, alt-tab works with the game to switch tasks. Minor texture issues can occur under specific settings, such as using the Locked Full Screen mode with mipmap textures on. On most systems, the game will automatically set the display mode to Optimized (WM), which supports the alt-tab option. However, on some widescreen monitors, the game may activate the Locked mode to better support those unique resolutions. This may result in the minor texture problem on certain system configurations. There are two ways to you can help reduce or eliminate the problem. First, if your system has enough video memory and performance, turn off mipmap texture in the Options menu. This will use textures in full detail, which isn't as susceptible to alt-tab problems. This usually solves the problem on most systems. However, you can also switch to the Optimized (WM) screen mode in the Options menu which runs the game in Windowed mode and better supports alt-tab. If you are using a wide screen the display, the Optimized screen mode may result in menus not filling the entire screen, but during gameplay the full resolution of your display is usually used.
The mouse/touchpad on my system is slow to respond in the game and/or main menu. Is there a way to fix this?
- This problem is usually caused by resource limitations or insufficient system performance (integrated 3D video, limited video memory, slow CPU, etc.). Delayed mouse input can occur on systems that share RAM for video memory (systems that lack dedicated video memory) or systems with less than 128 MB of video memory. You can usually reduce or eliminate the problem by changing a few settings in the Options menu. To improve performance during gameplay, make sure the Mipmap Textures option is on and/or turn off the 3D cockpit. To improve performance in both the menus and during gameplay, switch to the 16-bit color mode and/or the Locked (FS) screen mode. One or more of these changes usually fix the problem on most systems
When I use the Optimized (WM) screen mode, alt-tab doesn't minimize the game. Is there a way I can minimize the game so I can access my desktop?
- Yes. Alt-tab will support switching between running applications, but you can also minimize the game by simply using the Windows-D key combination. The Windows key (with a small Windows logo) is usually located between the Control and Alt keys on the left side of the keyboard. Simply hold that key down then press the D key and the game will minimize, giving you access to your desktop and the start menu.
When I try to run the game, it closes with a 'D3D' error or a '3D Video Error! Unable to set required video properties.' message. What's wrong?
- A D3D error is almost always associated with Direct 3D not being able to initiate. This means your 3D card hasn't been enabled. To correct this, install the latest drivers for your 3D card and the latest version of DirectX. If the 3D Video Error message is displayed, some rendering properties of your 3D card could not be accessed. Installing the latest video drivers usually fixes this problem. Here are links to several 3D video card manufacturer websites:
Nvidia
ATI
Matrox
I have a problem running the game and the suggestions here haven't fixed it. What can I do?
- If you haven't been able to find a solution to a particular problem, you can complete the following steps to forward your system specifications/details in an e-mail so further assistance may be possible.
- Click on Start, Run, then type in MSINFO32 and press enter.
- Then click on the File option at the top and click on Save.
- Save the NFO file, then attach it to an e-mail, send it to
and include a detailed description of the problem.
What's the difference between the Optimized (WM) and Locked (FS) screen modes?
- The Optimized mode runs in a window and is generally considered the best way to run the game. The locked mode forces the game to run in a full screen mode, regardless of what resolution you select. The Optimized mode lets you see any Windows dialogue boxes that might open and supports alt-tab to toggle between the game and other applications. Running the game in Locked mode may cause unpredictable behavior if alt-tab is used, but can allow the game to run in a lower resolution in full screen (although the performance benefit will likely be minimal compared to the Optimized mode running at a higher resolution).
How do I rescue one of my wingmen after they eject?
- If one of your wingmen is heavily damage, they may be able to eject just before their ship explodes. If this happens, their ejection pod will appear on your radar as a purple blip. You can fly towards the ejection pod and resuce the pilot with the tractor beam (default B key). Once aboard, you can transport the pilot to a nearby support cruiser and they will be able to quickly launch in a replacement ship. If you wait for rescue from the fleet, it will take a lot longer for the pilot to return to the battle. Some ejection pods may be empty if the fleet is able to rescue the pilot first as fleet S&R (Search and Rescue) removes the pilot from the ejection pod and transports them directly back to the carrier. When you rescue a stranded pilot, you will transport the entire ejection pod back to a cruiser since your ship is not equipped with the room and life support necessary for another pilot.
I can't complete campaign mission [number], what can I do?
- Arvoch Conflict lets you easily modify any mission scenario to increase or decrease difficulty by letting you control a variety of parameters. Each campaign mission scenario is stored in a text file located in the game's default directory (usually C:\sw3dg\ArvochConflict) using the filenames MISSION#.TXT. The # symbol indicates the mission number. The mission number and title of the mission you're at are displayed at the top of the mission briefing screen. Simply open the corresponding mission text file in Notepad and change the settings to make the mission easier or more difficult. Instructions are included with the game on specific values. You can move a planet, add or remove hostiles, add or remove friendly ships, move mission waypoints, place objects, change objectives, and many more settings for every mission.
I use a router/firewall/ICS/NAT and can't get internet-based multiplayer to work?
- On most systems, you can simply join a multiplayer game. However, certain routers and/or firewalls may block the needed ports for the game. You may need to open/forward ports manually to get multiplayer to work (for details on how to do this, refer to the documentation for your router/modem/firewall). Hosting a game will often require opening the needed ports. With many devices, you can often access the settings by entering the IP address 192.168.0.1 in your web browser. The following ports are needed for the game:
- 3998 TCP
- 3999 TCP
If you're using a router, another option is to bypass your router and connect directly to your modem via ethernet or USB.
Another option is placing the gaming computer in the DMZ (refer to your router's documentation on how to do this), although this is not recommended due to the higher security risk.
If you're using a firewall, you can usually just make an exception for the game. For help with configuring your firewall, please consult the documentation that came with your firewall software.
For additional resources on configuring ports/routers for multiplayer games, visit PortForward.com
Note: Disabling a firewall, placing a computer in the DMZ, or opening ports can result in lower security for your network/internet connection. By disabling such security measures, it's possible for someone to break into your network and cause harm to your computer and/or obtain personal information from your computer. If you choose to disable your network security measures, you do so at your own risk. The most secure way to play multiplayer games is through a wired LAN (local area network) and NOT a wireless one.
I try to host a game, but no one ever joins, or they tell me they can't join?
- This occurs for one of two reasons. First, make sure you've entered the correct IP. The number one reason no one can connect to a game is because of an incorrect IP address. Using routers can often result in the wrong IP address being detected and may also block other players from detecting and joining your game. Firewalls and routers can also interfere with allowing players to join your game (see the section above for more information).
What if I lose my registration information, can I still get the key to the game I paid for?
- Yes. If you ordered the game directly, simply submit an e-mail requesting your registration details and include your name and e-mail address used on the order (any additional information just makes the process faster, but isn't required). If you ordered the game through a reseller, contact the reseller for your registration details.
I'm part of a LAN party group or would like to buy several licenses for family/friends, can I get a discount for the game?
- Yes. The discount varies based on the number of copies needed. Have a member of the group contact me with the details of your group (name of group, names of members including e-mail addresses, number of systems, etc.) and I will supply instructions on buying multiple licenses at a discount price. A seperate registration will be given to each group member (each one will have the renewal option and full registration benefits).
I purchased the game and haven't received my registration key, what can I do?
- One of the most likely causes for a delay is the e-mail address you provided with your order is rejecting our e-mails to you (usually because the e-mail address you provided is spelled incorrectly or your mailbox is full). You may have a spam filter in place that has blocked the e-mail from arriving to you or there may be a technical problem. If your payment has been finalized and you still haven't received your key after around 12 hours, please contact us to follow up on the status of your order and resend your information as needed. To expedite your order, please verify your e-mail address is correct when placing your order and make sure your mailbox is not full.
How does the order process and registration system work, can I install the game later on a new computer I buy?
Once an order is processed and passes the fraud check (which usually takes less than a few minutes or few hours at most), a random key is e-mailed to the registered user. The key does not expire and can be used to install the game on a different computer at a later date (keys are not computer locked or hardware dependent). There are only simple checks in place to prevent the same key from being used for more than one player in multiplayer and for key validity. Even if the game's website and online multiplayer server list system aren't around at some point in the future, you can still use your key to register the game you paid for offline. There are also no installation count limits that would risk preventing you from installing the game months or years later. Likewise, there are no uninstall 'deactivation' requirements to restore installation functionality.
Once the game is registered, it converts itself into the full version. The full version can be updated, patched, and reinstalled using the same installation file. One installation file is used for the demo, full version, and all upgrades/patches. This helps make the process of installation and upgrading easier. You can upgrade/patch your copy of the game without interfering with the registration status for both the demo and full version.
If you have questions about the registration system or anything else about the game, I can be reached via e-mail.
Is there a way to get the game on CD/DVD?
- While the game is available through digital distribution, you can burn the game to CD or DVD. Simply burn the installation file to disc and you can also include your registration key somewhere on the case for installation later. You can then install the game from disc for use on one computer at a time just as with the downloadable version. Tha_Rami has also kindly provided a cover you can print for use with a DVD case. Visit the forum for details.
Ultimate Squad Based 3D Space Combat Simulation
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