-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@libsdl.org

.....

[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:
         http://www.libsdl.org/projects/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@libsdl.org)
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----------------------------------------------------------------------