Topic: Begin-- The Predecessor to SFC

[Roychipoqua_Mace]

I just tried playing a game called "Begin 2." It was made in the early 90's and is based off of Starfleet Battles. Here is some info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Begin_%28computer_game%29

It is just like the original show, where you can do everything from set your warp speed and heading, to load photon torpedoes and set their spread and proximity pattern. Everything is done with text commands, which aren't too bad after a couple minutes gametime. The graphics are simple, but have an old-school quality that is fun.

There are a few classes for each race, and four races-- Feds, Klingons, Romulans, and Orion Pirates. The influence from SFB is evident, and that's a good thing: the hex shield arrangement and ships (The Roms have the equivalents of Old Series and KR-series ships, while the Fed DD is much like the SFB one) are familiar.

The game is essentially freeware, although the makers don't explain every command in the game-- for that, you need to buy the advanced manual. However, the files included and the example battle at the website are good enough. Note: the manual included in the game is a .man, and can be read by just switching the extension to .txt. The main "Begin" site: http://hallert.net/misc/begin/begin.html

Thought this looked like fun!

edit: here is a list of the commands for the game: http://home.comcast.net/~potatoedoughnut/begin/begin2.html

[Lepton]

Interesting but I find it hard to see how it is based on SFB.  I don't see anything like arcs or even the proper number of weapons on a ship that would correspond to an SSD.

[Roychipoqua_Mace]

Well maybe inspired by SFB, not based on. Some SFB/C tactics seem to work in it, like the oblique approach and even a version of a sabre dance.

One fun thing is that the photon torpedoes don't rely on chance to hit, but your aiming. However, an enemy can dodge it if far enough away, and can phaser down an incoming torp.