OK this game uses the latest 80's EGA technology, the game is based on a single screen that is chopped into about 8 different segments, most importantly is a galaxy map giving you details of where you have been and also showing the ‘box’ next to you, the codes are a simple 3 digit number e.g. 312, this means 3 enemies 1 star base and 2 stars.
Basically you have a fresh enterprise, you select a warp speed and a destination, 'fly into' an area and it then expands into an 8x8 box. So using the above example the 8x8 are would contain 3 enemies represented by different colored ships that sort of resemble a small klingon vessel, a star and a star
base - there is also a klingon star base that looks more like an hour glass.
Basically you shoot the enemy - if in a basic straight line use torpedoes, there many of them and close by but there is a star in the way use phasers (about 400 energy for each enemy then press i for info and the computer will give you remaining strength).
There are 5 skill levels, basically the higher the skill the more enemies and less time to complete the mission, the enemies are also a bit tough, in the higher skill a single torpedo will cause say 70% damage not 100%
Most of my high scores are int the 2000 mark, this is not too hard to do, but like any game the secret is practice and save often, especially after you have repaired yourself or before you go into an area full of enemies.
You may suffer damage and use the repair function to fix all of some items, I always fix life support first, then computer or warp engines.
I think this a great game, simple to use and importantly no mouse all commands are of the keyboard.
While version 3 exists try and hunt for version 2.31 it is the last written with all of the usual star trek names and terminology.
There is a very good "how to" manual and it is important you read it at least twice - it is in plain English and describes everything quite well. You can simply start the game and use the online help.
While technically an old dos game with no 'wiz bang' graphics it’s one of the few games I have been playing that has lasted almost 20 years – it’s a great game, and also teaches you how to play with some strategy, know when to run and repair, and strike back when 100% healthy.
