• Re: Monthly 3DO FAQ posting (1/2)

    From KP KP@21:1/5 to Scott A. Krotz on Sun Sep 4 16:05:24 2022
    On Monday, May 2, 1994 at 2:37:13 PM UTC-7, Scott A. Krotz wrote:
    Here's the monthly 3DO FAQ posting. As always, send any info,
    corrections, additions, new titles, or good jokes to me,
    Scott Krotz at [email protected]
    Scott

    ===============================================================================
    ----------3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list----------
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    Interactive Multiplayer
    Frequently Asked Questions List V2.4
    Maintained by Scott A. Krotz
    e-mail: [email protected]
    ----------3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list----------
    ===============================================================================
    This is the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list. It consists of the following four sections:
    SECTION 1 - 3DO Consoles and General Information
    SECTION 2 - 3DO Founders and Company information
    SECTION 3 - Hardware, Peripherals, and Specifications
    SECTION 4 - System and Application Software
    Each section answers specific questions about the 3DO, the 3DO company, and 3DO software and hardware.
    This FAQ List was last modified on April 30th, 1994. The latest version
    of this faq, along with other 3DO related materials, can be found at the ftp site ftp.ee.pdx.edu (131.252.10.155).
    ================SECTION 1 - 3DO Consoles and General Information===============
    [1.1] What is a 3DO?
    A: The 3DO is, technically, a set of specifications created by the 3DO company, which is itself a partership of seven different Companies. These specs are the intellectual property of the 3DO Company, and are the blueprint for making a 3DO Interactive Multiplayer. Manufacturing companies license the rights from the 3DO Company to manufacture a system based on the 3DO Company's
    specifications. Software companies license the ability to develop software for
    the 3DO.
    The closest analogy is that of the VCR; The VCR *technology* was
    created by JVC, and any company can manufacture a VCR or VCR videocassettes as long as they pay a small royalty to JVC. The 3DO *technology* was
    created by the 3DO Company, and several companies have licensed the right
    to manufacture 3DO systems based on this technology. The 3DO Company
    itself does not manufacture 3DO systems.
    Basically, a 3DO system consists of an ARM60 32-bit RISC processor as the general processing unit, with a graphics engine based around two custom designed graphics and animation processors. It has 2 Megabytes of
    DRAM, 1 Megabyte of VRAM, and a doublespeed CD-ROM drive for main
    storage. This is a simplified description of the system; See below for detailed specifications.
    Be sure to read the newsgroup rec.games.video.3do for ongoing discussions about 3DO software and hardware.
    [1.2] What can the 3DO do?
    "It will be more stimulating to the human mind than any new technology
    since printing." - Trip Hawkins
    A: The Panasonic 3DO system can run 3DO Interactive software, Play audio
    CD's (including support for CD+G), View Photo-CDs, and will eventually be able to play Video CD's with a special add-on MPEG1 full motion video cartridge.
    With its controller port up to 8 controllers can be daisy-chained on the system at once. A keyboard, mouse, light gun, and other peripherals may
    also some day be hooked into the system (although they are not currently available).
    3DO Interactive software is a step beyond most current consumer multimedia interactive software. With its powerful cel engine, the 3DO can display
    full motion video, fully texture mapped 3-D landscapes, and other amazing visuals, all in 24-bit color.
    [1.3] What does the Panasonic 3DO system come with?
    A: The Panasonic REAL 3DO player includes the 3DO system with an RF output, composite video output, S-Video output, left and right audio outputs, and cables for composite video and L+R audio. The 3DO system contains an FMV
    port for attaching the optional MPEG1 full motion video cartridge (used to watch Video CDs), one expansion port, and one controller port. Up to eight devices can be daisy chained together on the controller port. The base system also includes one seven-button controller with 11 foot cable and headphone jack + volume control. The base system also includes two CDs: a 3DO sampler disc and the game CD "Crash and Burn." The sampler disc contains an intro to the system, demo programs, and information about upcoming titles. "Crash and Burn" is a high speed 3-D texture mapped racing-combat game. A manual, setup information, and promotional poster are also included.
    For more information on the Panasonic REAL(tm) Interactive Multiplayer, call (800)REAL-3DO.
    [1.4] Where can I get the lowest price for a 3DO?
    A: The retail price of the 3DO has recently been dropped to $499 (with many retail outlets selling it for $449), so make sure not to buy a 3DO somewhere that has not changed to the new price. Mail order outlets usually have slightly lower prices than retail stores, and may have it for less. Prices as low as $429 have been found. Ask on rec.games.video.3do for more info about finding the current best place to purchase a 3DO.
    [1.5] Is the 3DO a Panasonic product?
    A: No. The 3DO system was developed and designed by the 3DO Company, and Panasonic has licensed the right to manufacture the system from the 3DO company. Panasonic has little to do with the design of the system, they
    just build them. Panasonic calls their 3DO console the "Panasonic FZ-1 R.E.A.L. 3DO Interactive Multiplayer."
    [1.6] Who else is a 3DO hardware licensee?
    A: Here is a list of the current 3DO hardware licensees:
    Licensee Product Notes
    -------- ------- -----
    Panasonic Home Console FZ-1 is currently released(1)
    Sanyo Home Console Planned release in August(2)
    AT&T Home Console Planned release in late '94(3)
    Samsung Home Console Planned release in Oct. '94
    Goldstar Home Console Planned release in Jan. '95
    Creative Labs PC Card PC card for IBM compatibles(4)
    Toshiba Portable Creating a car nav system(5)
    Atari Games Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    Electronic Arts Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    American Laser Games Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    NOTE: All release dates are tentative and subject to change.
    (1) The Panasonic FZ-1 is the only 3DO console currently available. It has been released in the US and Japan, and a UK release is scheduled for Fall '94.
    (2) Sanyo has stated the Japanese release will come before the American release, which is currently scheduled for August.
    (3) The AT&T 3DO will optionally include a modem for networked games and communication.
    (4) For more information on the Creative labs PC card, see question 3.3
    (5) Toshiba has announced plans to develop a portable version of the 3DO system
    that can be installed in automobiles. It is believed to be a car navigation system of some sort, and should be available in Japan in late '94.
    [1.7] I thought the Sanyo 3DO console was cancelled? EGM says so!
    A: This is incorrect. A news article came out in November '93 saying that
    the Sanyo 3DO had been shelved, but it turned out to be false information. EGM picked up this story and printed it. Both 3DO and Sanyo contacted EGM
    to tell them the story was false, but EGM amazingly refused to retract their story. The information about the cancellation of the Sanyo 3DO in the March issue of EGM is incorrect. Sanyo has announced that they will release their own 3DO console in August, and at a price "lower than Panasonics." No specific price has been given.
    [1.8] What's this I hear about a "reduced-cost" 3DO chipset?
    A: 3DO has re-worked their chipset to reduce the cost of manufacturing. The new chipset has no more or less functionality or speed than the previous one, it simply combines several chips into one to reduce the cost of making it. The
    new chipset should be available in quantity soon and is slated to be used in the new Sanyo 3DO.
    [1.9] Will each 3DO system be compatible?
    A: Yes. You will be able to run all 3DO software on any manufacturers
    system. However, each system can be customized to some extent by the manufacturer to add their own special features.. for example the modem on
    the AT&T console.
    [1.10] Will I be able to play current 3DO software on the next generation 3DO system?
    A: Yes. Right now 3DO intends that you will be able to play current 3DO software on any future 3DO compatible machine.
    [1.11] Will I be able to upgrade my current 3DO console to a next generation 3DO console(through the FMV expansion port perhaps) when it is available?
    A: Its not known if there will be the ability to upgrade current 3DO hardware into next generation 3DO hardware. Very little is known about the next version of the 3DO, and it is presumed that it is only in the early planning stages at this point in time.
    [1.12] Is the 3DO just going to be an educational system?
    A: No. While educational and informational programs are going to be an important part of the 3DO software library, there will also be lots of
    games. Trip Hawkins is said to love games, and the system was designed
    by game players almost certainly with games in mind.
    [1.13] Is the 3DO just going to be a games system?
    A: No. Childrens, educational, and reference/informational programs are planned to be a large part of the 3DO software library.
    [1.14] Is the 3DO the same as CD-I?
    A: No. CD-I stands for "CD Interactive" and is a system developed by Phillips Electronics. The two systems *are not* compatible and are totally unrelated. [1.15] Which system is better, the 3DO or the Jaguar?
    A: It isn't really known. Due to the bus design and architecture of the
    3DO, the two systems cannot easily be compared. Only time and software
    will begin to show the different abilities of the two systems.
    People in the newsgroup rec.games.video.advocacy will almost certainly be discussing this issue. Check there for more information, but only if you are strong in body and spirit. :) System wars are well known for their ferocity. [1.16] Where can I ftp 3DO related files?
    A: the ftp site ftp.ee.pdx.edu (131.252.10.155) has 3DO related materials, including the latest version of this FAQ, in the directory /pub/gaming/3DO. New files can be submitted in the /pub/incoming directory. ===============SECTION 2 - 3DO Founders and Company information================
    [2.1] What does 3DO stand for?
    A: Nothing, really. Some people have said it stands for "3 Dimensional Objects," or "3 Dollars Only," (The current licensing fee per disc) but the general consensus is that it means it is the next step after audio and video: audio, video, "threedeo."
    [2.2] Who developed the 3DO system?
    A: Dave Needle and RJ Mical are named as co-inventors of the Machine. Needle and Mical previously worked on the the design team of the original Amiga computer, and on the design of the Atari Lynx handheld gaming system. The NTG (New Technologies Group) company designed most of the 3DO technology/hardware.
    [2.3] Who is Trip Hawkins?
    A: Trip Hawkins is the founder and CEO of the 3DO Company. He is also the founder of Electronic Arts, a well known software publishing company. Trip
    is the driving force behind the creation and development of the 3DO.
    [2.4] Who are the seven partners that make up 3DO?
    A: Matsushita, AT&T, Time Warner, MCA, Electronic Arts, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and the New Technologies Group(NTG). NTG was previously a separate company but has now merged into the 3DO company and no longer exists as a separate entity.
    [2.5] How does the 3DO company make money?
    A: 3DO gets a small royalty for each 3DO console sold. They also get a royalty on each 3DO software disc sold. The 3DO disc royalty is currently
    at $3 per disc. Since 3DO does not directly manufacture the 3DO consoles or software, it has little control over their retail pricing.
    [2.6] What about 3DO's stock?
    A: In mid-March, 1993, 3DO entered into the stock market with an initial public offering (IPO) that values the entire company at around $300 million. 3DO has recently started a promotion offering 3DO hardware manufacturers two shares of 3DO common stock for each hardware system shipped at or below certain
    retail prices before Sept. 30, 1994. All of the current hardware licensees are eligible to take part in this promotion.
    [2.7] How do I contact the 3DO company?
    A: Contact 3DO's public relations department at:
    The 3DO Company
    600 Galveston Dr.
    Redwood City, Ca 94063
    (415) 261-3000
    ============SECTION 3 - Hardware, Peripherals, and Specifications=============
    [3.1] What Peripherals are coming for the 3DO?
    A: Peripherals have been announced by Logitech and CH Products. Alps Electric,
    Inc. has also signed on to create 3DO peripherals but has not announced any products as of yet. Logitech is going to produce a mouse for the 3DO, and CH Products an analog joystick. No release dates have been made public for either
    product. A keyboard peripheral is also expected.
    [3.2] Is there going to be a modem for the 3DO?
    A: Yes, AT&T is planning on releasing both a 3DO console that includes a modem
    and an add-on modem peripheral for modem-less 3DO consoles. The AT&T modem will incorporate AT&T's VoiceSpan voice-over-data technology that allows players to talk with the person they are networked with. (note: AT&T also plans on releasing a 3DO console without a modem.)
    [3.3] What about the PC 3DO card?
    A: Creative Technology Ltd. plans to jointly develop a 3DO-compatible personal
    computer plug-in card. This card will allow properly configured PC compatibles
    to play 3DO software titles. Creative Technology will manufacture and market the card. No release date or further information is available yet.
    [3.4] Can the Panasonic 3DO control pad do diagonals? I sure can't get mine to!
    A: Diagonals can be done on the Panasonic 3DO directional pad, but they take excessive force. There is a simple solution, however, that allows diagonal movement to be done easily. David Liu ([email protected]) says:
    "One merely needs to partially unscrew the six screws which hold the controller in place. Unscrewing only the three screws on the right side of the bottom face of the controller three turns each restores much of the control; loosening the remaining screws slightly can be used to tune the sensitivity of the controller. The origin of the problem may be that the rubber contact pad and the plastic control disk are pressed too tightly in the factory-produced controllers, causing a slight warping of the rubber pad. Loosening the two halves of the controller, however, remedies this problem." Many thanks to David Liu for this quick and simple fix! Remember, although this is a simple procedure, neither David nor I can bear any responsibility for
    damage done to your controllers while attempting this fix.
    There is also a slightly trickier and more involved method developed by Casey Grimm that might be a better fix. It involves taking apart the control pad and
    cutting a small part of the thumb pad. This fix can be found on ftp.ee.pdx.edu
    for those who are interested.
    [3.5] What is the resolution of the 3DO system?
    A: The resolution displayed on screen is 640x480. However, the 3DO has an internal resolution of 320x240 or 320x480, with each pixel being either 24-bits
    or 16-bits. The 16-bit mode is almost always used for animations, while the 24-bit mode is used mostly for still pictures. There are no other resolutions available. The internal resolution is interpolated into an anti-aliased 640x480 pixel display. The interpolation can be turned on and off via software.
    [3.6] Can the 3DO do real 24-bit color?
    A: The 3DO can do 16 bit graphics with CLUTs(Color Look Up Tables) drawn from 24 bits, or it can do true 24 bit graphics.
    [3.7] What does it mean when 3DO product literature says that the system
    can "animate 64 million pixels per second?"
    A: The system is capable of animating up to 64 million 16-bit on-screen pixels per second. This is really 16 million internal 16-bit pixels
    that are then interpolated as they are displayed on the screen to 640 by
    480 pixel resolution, quadrupling the number of pixels displayed on screen. [3.8] What are the detailed specs of the system?
    A: According to information from an article about the 3DO in Popular Science, the 3DO has an interesting design. Instead of a straightforward single bus configuration, it seems to have a multiple bus configuration. This in theory allows multiple components to be operating simultaneously, with less bus contention problems than would be found in a standard single-bus design.
    The heart of the system is two Graphics and animation processors which are capable of rendering up to 64 million texture mapped pixels per second (interpolated). The Graphics animation processors and the DSP are custom designed by NTG, a division of the 3DO Company.
    The block diagram shown below is taken from an article on the 3DO system in the
    Dec. 93 issue of Popular Science Magazine.

    Graphics Graphics
    --------- animation animation
    | 3DO | processor processor
    | block | |32|____________|32|
    |diagram| |________ ________|
    M --------- |32|
    o _____|__|_____
    n __ Video _______ 1MB ______| |____ 2MB
    i __ processor_______ VRAM __32__| |_32_ DRAM
    t | |
    o | |
    r | DMA |____ Expansion __ CDROM
    | controller |_32_ Port Control __ Drive
    | |
    A | |___ Control __ Control pad
    u__ D/A __ Digital ______| |_8_ Port __ 3d goggles
    d__ Converter __ Signal __16__|____________| keyboard
    i Processor |32|
    o ______________________| |
    | ______ _________ |
    |32| |32| |32|
    Optional Video 32-bit RISC _____ Math Co- ___ ROM &
    Video --> Video Decomp Processor _____ Processor ___ SRAM
    Input Port/plug
    Specs:
    -32-bit 12.5Mhz RISC CPU (ARM60) made by Advanced RISC Machines
    (Roughly equivalent to a 25Mhz 68030)
    -640x480 pixel resolution at 16.7 million colors
    -Two Accelerated Video Co-Processors with the following features:
    + 25Mhz clock rate.
    + Capable of producing 9-16 million REAL pixels per second (36-64 Mpix/sec interpolated), distorted, scaled, rotated and texture mapped.
    + Able to map a rectangular bitmap onto any arbitrary 4-point polygon.
    + Texturemap source bitmaps can be 1,2,4,6,8, or 16 bits per pixel and are compressed for a maximum combination of both high resolution and small storage space.
    + Supports transparency, translucency, and color-shading effects.
    -Custom 16-bit Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with the following features:
    + specifically designed for mixing, manipulating, and synthesizing CD
    quality sound.
    + 25Mhz clock rate.
    + Pipelined CISC architecture.
    + 16-bit register size.
    + 17 separate 16-bit DMA channels to and from system memory.
    + On chip instruction SRAM and register memory.
    + 20-bit internal processing.
    + Special filtering capable of creating effects such as 3D sound.
    -Separate BUS for video refresh updates (VRAM is dual ported)
    -Super Fast BUS Speed (50 Megabytes per second)
    -Math Co-Processor custom designed by NTG for accelerating fixed-point matrix operations. (Note: This is *not* the ARM FPA)
    -CD-ROM Drive with the following features:
    + 320ms access time
    + Doublespeed 300kbps Data Transfer
    + 32kbyte ram buffer
    -2 megabytes of DRAM
    -1 megabyte of VRAM (also capable of holding/executing code and data)
    -1 megabyte of ROM
    -36 Separate DMA Channels for fast data processing and efficient bus usage
    -2 expansion ports:
    + 1 High-speed 68 pin x 1 AV I/O port (for FMV cartridge)
    + 1 High-speed 30 pin x 1 I/O expansion port
    -1 Control port, capable of daisy chaining together up to 8 peripherals -Multitasking 32-bit Operating System
    -16-bit Stereo Sound
    -44.1KHz Sound Sampling Rate
    -Fully Supports Dolby(tm) Surround Sound
    -32kb battery backed up SRAM
    -Upgradable
    ==================SECTION 4 - System and Application Software==================
    [4.1] What about the 3DO operating system?
    A: The 3DO OS is a fully-featured 32-bit multitasking operating system written
    specifically for the 3DO by NTG. Developers *must* use the OS for a variety of
    reasons, the main one being to maintain compatibility with all 3DO consoles and
    future next generation 3DO consoles. The OS is loaded from an application's CD
    when the system starts up, and is not in the consoles ROM. Contrary to rumors,
    there is no way to bypass the OS and "hack" directly on the hardware.
    The 3DO OS consists of two parts:
    1) A multitasking kernel with drivers for peripherals, a complete file system,
    and support for physical storage.
    2) Several software "folios" that provide a link between application software and the 3DO hardware, and are designed to allow software compatibility as new versions of the hardware are developed. The following six subsystems make up the entire "Portfolio" of 3DO OS system calls:
    The Decompression Folio
    - supports software and hardware decompression of audio and video data.
    The Math Folio
    - performs many of the high level calculations.
    The Graphics Folio
    - provides access to the 3DO's cel and display subsystems for doing graphics effects and animation. The effects include warping, transparency, lighting effects, anti-aliasing, and texture mapping.
    The 3-D Folio
    - system code for creating 3-D effects and doing complex calculations.
    The Audio Folio
    - supports the creation and manipulation of sound effects and music. This includes proprietary algorithms called "3D audio imaging" that create the illusion of sound coming not only from the left and right, but front and
    back (when wearing headphones). These algorithms can also produce Doppler effects and reverberations.
    The File System Folio
    - manages the file system
    [4.2] How is 3DO application software developed?
    A: 3DO Software is developed on high-end Macintosh computers via an easy to use toolkit and development station created by the 3DO Company. The develop- ment station consists of a special 3DO that has several debugging features and
    is interfaced to the Macintosh computer. The toolkit contains emulation software and programming and authoring tools that include a source level debugger, 2D animation and imaging software, 3D modeling software, and video and file translation tools as well as Macromedia's Director, MacroModel, and Three-D. Software licensees also get a vast "content library" from the 3DO partners: 170 CDs carrying 111 gigabytes of music, sound effects, photos, film
    clips, clip art, and text references, all available to knit into their work. [4.3] How is the 3DO's NVRAM structured?
    A: The 3DO's non-volatile static ram is structured like a file system. It cannot be written to directly by an application, OS calls _must_ be used
    to read, write, create, or delete files in the NVRAM. Any program, however, can read, modify, or delete any other programs files if it wishes too. 3DO strongly suggests developers not write software that deletes other programs files without the permission of the user.
    [4.3] How do I become a 3DO developer?
    A: For information on becoming a 3DO developer, call the 3DO New Developer INFO
    Line at (415)261-3202.
    [4.4] Will 3DO software be censored at all?
    A: No.
    [4.5] Will 3DO software have a ratings system of some kind?
    A: Yes, at the current time 3DO is going to have an optional rating system that will be administered by the software publisher. The publisher will determine what audience is suitable for their title, and then place the appropriate rating on it. The ratings are as follows:
    A green circle with an "E" in it: Everyone, suitable for all ages.
    A yellow diamond with a "12" in it: Games suitable for persons 12 and up.
    A yellow diamond with a "17" in it: Games suitable for persons 17 and up.
    A red octagon with "AO" in it: Adults Only.
    [4.6] Who is developing software for the 3DO?
    A: Reportedly over 550 companies are licensed 3DO developers, with more than 550 third-party development systems installed and 200 software companies worldwide actively developing titles. Some of the more well known companies developing for the 3DO are Electronic Arts, Origin, Virgin Games, Dynamix, Acclaim, Konami, Interplay, Crystal Dynamics, Psygnosis, and Microprose. [4.7] What software is going to be available for the 3DO?
    A: Here is a list of 3DO software from Enrique Conty:
    I've compiled a list of 3DO software, from brochures and other official releases, and net information. Feel free to inform me of any additions
    or corrections.
    Software available (you can pick these in stores NOW):
    Title Publisher Type
    20th Century Video Almanac Software Toolworks Reference
    BattleChess Interplay Chess
    CPU Bach Microprose Education
    Crash & Burn Crystal Dynamics Racing/Shooter
    Dennis Miller - It's News to Me Sanctuary Woods Canned Video/comedy
    Dragon's Lair Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Escape From Monster Manor EA/Studio 3DO Action
    Fatty Bear's Birthday Surprise Humongous Entertainment Education
    Fatty Bear's Fun Pack Humongous Entertainment Education
    Horde, The Crystal Dynamics Action/Strategy
    Incredible Machine, The Dynamix Puzzle
    Interactive Aerobics Intelliplay Fitness/Workout
    It's a Bird's Life Sanctuary Woods Education
    John Madden Football Electronic Arts Sports
    Lemmings Psygnosis Puzzle
    Life Stage, The Panasonic Virtual House
    Mad Dog McCree Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Night Trap Virgin Games Canned Video/Puzzle
    Oceans Below Software Toolworks Education
    Pebble Beach Golf T & E Software Sports
    Putt-Putt Joins the Parade Humongous Entertainment Education
    Putt-Putt's Fun Pack Humongous Entertainment Education
    Putt-Putt Goes to the Moon Humongous Entertainment Education
    San Diego Zoo: The Animals Software Toolworks Education
    Sewer Shark Virgin Games Canned Video/Shooter
    Stellar 7 Dynamix Action/Shooter
    Super Wing Commander Origin Flightsim
    Total Eclipse Crystal Dynamics Shooter
    Twisted EA/Studio 3DO Puzzle
    Woody Woodpecker Cartoon Vol1-3 Universal Home Video Cartoon
    Software in production (not yet done, but officially announced):
    Title Publisher Type
    3D Adventures Acclaim Adventure
    3D Football Acclaim Sports
    7th Guest II: The 11th Hour Trilobyte/Virgin Puzzle
    Air Warrior GameTek Flightsim
    Alien Trilogy Acclaim 3-D Action
    Alone in the Dark Interplay Adventure/Action
    Baseball: Catching IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Defensive Play IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Hitting IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Pitching IntelliPlay Education
    Chaos Control Infogrames Shooter
    C.I.T.Y 2000 Paris Aditus Mystery
    Cool Knight Readysoft Music
    Cool Spot Virgin Games Platform
    Cowboy Casino IntelliPlay Education
    Creature Shock Argonaut Action/Arcade
    Crime Patrol Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Demolition Man Virgin Action/Arcade
    Dennis Miller - It's Geek to Me Sanctuary Woods Canned Video/comedy
    Dragon Tales Mindscape RPG
    Dragon's Lair II Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Dragon Knight III MegaTech Adult Adventure
    Falcon Spectrum Holobyte Flightsim
    Family Feud GameTek Game Show
    FIFA Soccer Electronic Arts Sports
    Football: Defensive Backfield IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Linemen IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Quarterback IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Receiver IntelliPlay Education
    Frommer's M'media Travel Guide Frommers Reference
    Gradius Konami Shooter
    Gridders Tetragon Action/Strategy
    Humans, The GameTek Action/Strategy
    Inspector Danger's Crime Quiz Digital Productions Puzzle
    Interactive Aerobics ? Exercise
    Jurassic Park Interactive MCA/Studio 3DO Action/Adventure
    Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes Electronic Arts Adventure
    Mad Dog Mcree II: The Lost Gold American Laser Games Canned Video/Shooter Maelstrom Readysoft Strategy(?)
    Mega Race The Software Toolworks Racing
    Microcosm Psygnosis Shooter
    Mieko Digital Productions Education
    Orion Off-Road Crystal Dynamics Shooter
    Out Of This World Interplay Adventure
    PatAank PF Magic Futuristic Pinball
    Peter Gabriels Explora 1 ? Interactive music
    Peter Pan Electronic Arts Paint/Education
    PGA Tour Golf Electronic Arts Sports
    Powerslide Elite Systems ?
    Rap Rock n Roll I & II Paramount Interactive interactive music
    Real Pinball ? Pinball
    Red Baron Dynamix Flightsim
    Return to Zork Activision Adventure
    Return Fire Silent Software ?
    Road Rash Electronic Arts Racing
    Rock and Roll Racing Interplay Action/Arcade
    Rise of the Robots Mirage Fighting
    Santa Fe Trail Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Scavenger 4 Psygnosis Canned Video/Shooter
    Scorched Earth Electronic Arts ?
    Seawolf SSN-21 Electronic Arts Subsim
    Sesame Street: Numbers Electronic Arts Education
    Shadow Caster Origin RPG
    Shock Wave Electronic Arts Flightsim
    Silly Classix!... At the Museum VideoactV Cartoon?
    Space Ace Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Space Pirates Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Space Shuttle The Software Toolworks Simulation
    Star Control II Crystal Dyanamics Adventure/RPG
    Star Trek: The Next Generation Spectrum Holobyte Adventure
    Star Trek: TNG Technical Manual Paramount Interactive Reference
    Street Fighter II Complete Capcom Fighting
    Syndicate Electronic Arts Strategy
    Theme Park Bullfrog Strategy/Sim
    Tigernaut: Beyond the Stars ? ?
    Tom Kite: Consistent Golf IntelliPlay Education
    ToonTime!.. In the classroom VideoactV Cartoon?
    Universal Studios Orbital MCA Adventure/Strategy(?)
    Virtuoso Elite Systems ?
    Way of the Warrior Naughty Dog Software Fighting
    Who Shot Johnny Rock American Laser Games Canned Video/Shooter
    Whole Dog Almanac, The Digital Productions Education
    Japanese Titles in production or released:
    Title Publisher
    Burning Soldier Pack-in Video
    Chiki Chiki Machine Race Future Pirates
    Doctor Hauzer Riverhill Soft
    Fireball Japan Data Works
    Kyoto Mystery Pack-in Video/Panasonic
    Mask of the Black Death, The Humming Bird Soft/Panasonic
    Nontan To Issho Victor Entertainment/Panasonic
    Professional Mah Jong Goku ascii/Panasonic
    Shogi Special Ascii
    Takeru Fun Project/Panasonic
    Tetsujin Synergy/Panasonic
    Theatre Wars Hakuhodo/Panasonic
    Toki O Koeta Tegami Thinking Rabbit/Panasonic
    Virtual Quest Ask Kondansha
    Ultraman Power Bandai
    Software list compiled by:
    Enrique Conty [email protected] or [email protected]
    [4.8] Sometimes I hear "popping" and "clicking" noises while playing Crash and
    Burn and other games. Is something wrong with my 3DO?
    A: No, nothing is wrong with your 3DO. There was a bug in the 3DO OS's audio library that caused a clicking sound sometimes when audio samples were played.
    This can be heard in games like "Crash & Burn" and "Total Eclipse." The bug has been fixed and should only be present in early 3DO games.
    [4.9] Hey! I played The Horde, saved a game, and now all of my other non-Horde
    saved games in NVRAM are gone! What happened?
    A: The Horde currently deletes all other non-horde saved games in NVRAM when you save a game. Amazingly, this is not a bug.. the game was designed to do this to give players the maximum amount of ram for Horde saved games! Crystal Dynamics is aware that this is a problem for many people and will allow people

    [continued in next message]

    --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05
    * Origin: fsxNet Usenet Gateway (21:1/5)
  • From Mike Garcia@21:1/5 to KP KP on Wed Dec 7 19:27:10 2022
    if you search for:
    "3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list"
    you'll find a better formatted one

    KP KP wrote:
    On Monday, May 2, 1994 at 2:37:13 PM UTC-7, Scott A. Krotz wrote:
    Here's the monthly 3DO FAQ posting. As always, send any info,
    corrections, additions, new titles, or good jokes to me,
    Scott Krotz at [email protected]
    Scott

    ===============================================================================
    ----------3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list----------
    333333 DDDD OOOO
    3333333 DDDDDD OOOOOO
    33 DD DDD OO OO
    33 DD DD OO OO
    333333 DD DD OO OO
    33 DD DD OO OO
    33 DD DDD OO OO
    3333333 DDDDDD OOOOOO
    333333 DDDD OOOO
    Interactive Multiplayer
    Frequently Asked Questions List V2.4
    Maintained by Scott A. Krotz
    e-mail: [email protected]
    ----------3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list----------
    ===============================================================================
    This is the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Frequently Asked Questions list. It >> consists of the following four sections:
    SECTION 1 - 3DO Consoles and General Information
    SECTION 2 - 3DO Founders and Company information
    SECTION 3 - Hardware, Peripherals, and Specifications
    SECTION 4 - System and Application Software
    Each section answers specific questions about the 3DO, the 3DO company, and >> 3DO software and hardware.
    This FAQ List was last modified on April 30th, 1994. The latest version
    of this faq, along with other 3DO related materials, can be found at the ftp >> site ftp.ee.pdx.edu (131.252.10.155).
    ================SECTION 1 - 3DO Consoles and General Information===============
    [1.1] What is a 3DO?
    A: The 3DO is, technically, a set of specifications created by the 3DO
    company, which is itself a partership of seven different Companies. These
    specs are the intellectual property of the 3DO Company, and are the blueprint
    for making a 3DO Interactive Multiplayer. Manufacturing companies license the
    rights from the 3DO Company to manufacture a system based on the 3DO Company's
    specifications. Software companies license the ability to develop software for
    the 3DO.
    The closest analogy is that of the VCR; The VCR *technology* was
    created by JVC, and any company can manufacture a VCR or VCR videocassettes >> as long as they pay a small royalty to JVC. The 3DO *technology* was
    created by the 3DO Company, and several companies have licensed the right
    to manufacture 3DO systems based on this technology. The 3DO Company
    itself does not manufacture 3DO systems.
    Basically, a 3DO system consists of an ARM60 32-bit RISC processor as the
    general processing unit, with a graphics engine based around two custom
    designed graphics and animation processors. It has 2 Megabytes of
    DRAM, 1 Megabyte of VRAM, and a doublespeed CD-ROM drive for main
    storage. This is a simplified description of the system; See below for
    detailed specifications.
    Be sure to read the newsgroup rec.games.video.3do for ongoing discussions
    about 3DO software and hardware.
    [1.2] What can the 3DO do?
    "It will be more stimulating to the human mind than any new technology
    since printing." - Trip Hawkins
    A: The Panasonic 3DO system can run 3DO Interactive software, Play audio
    CD's (including support for CD+G), View Photo-CDs, and will eventually be
    able to play Video CD's with a special add-on MPEG1 full motion video
    cartridge.
    With its controller port up to 8 controllers can be daisy-chained on the
    system at once. A keyboard, mouse, light gun, and other peripherals may
    also some day be hooked into the system (although they are not currently
    available).
    3DO Interactive software is a step beyond most current consumer multimedia >> interactive software. With its powerful cel engine, the 3DO can display
    full motion video, fully texture mapped 3-D landscapes, and other amazing
    visuals, all in 24-bit color.
    [1.3] What does the Panasonic 3DO system come with?
    A: The Panasonic REAL 3DO player includes the 3DO system with an RF output, >> composite video output, S-Video output, left and right audio outputs, and
    cables for composite video and L+R audio. The 3DO system contains an FMV
    port for attaching the optional MPEG1 full motion video cartridge (used to >> watch Video CDs), one expansion port, and one controller port. Up to eight >> devices can be daisy chained together on the controller port. The base system
    also includes one seven-button controller with 11 foot cable and headphone >> jack + volume control. The base system also includes two CDs: a 3DO sampler >> disc and the game CD "Crash and Burn." The sampler disc contains an intro to >> the system, demo programs, and information about upcoming titles. "Crash and >> Burn" is a high speed 3-D texture mapped racing-combat game. A manual, setup >> information, and promotional poster are also included.
    For more information on the Panasonic REAL(tm) Interactive Multiplayer, call >> (800)REAL-3DO.
    [1.4] Where can I get the lowest price for a 3DO?
    A: The retail price of the 3DO has recently been dropped to $499 (with many >> retail outlets selling it for $449), so make sure not to buy a 3DO somewhere >> that has not changed to the new price. Mail order outlets usually have
    slightly lower prices than retail stores, and may have it for less. Prices as
    low as $429 have been found. Ask on rec.games.video.3do for more info about >> finding the current best place to purchase a 3DO.
    [1.5] Is the 3DO a Panasonic product?
    A: No. The 3DO system was developed and designed by the 3DO Company, and
    Panasonic has licensed the right to manufacture the system from the 3DO
    company. Panasonic has little to do with the design of the system, they
    just build them. Panasonic calls their 3DO console the "Panasonic FZ-1
    R.E.A.L. 3DO Interactive Multiplayer."
    [1.6] Who else is a 3DO hardware licensee?
    A: Here is a list of the current 3DO hardware licensees:
    Licensee Product Notes
    -------- ------- -----
    Panasonic Home Console FZ-1 is currently released(1)
    Sanyo Home Console Planned release in August(2)
    AT&T Home Console Planned release in late '94(3)
    Samsung Home Console Planned release in Oct. '94
    Goldstar Home Console Planned release in Jan. '95
    Creative Labs PC Card PC card for IBM compatibles(4)
    Toshiba Portable Creating a car nav system(5)
    Atari Games Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    Electronic Arts Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    American Laser Games Coin-op Arcade Game Game(s) to be made are unknown
    NOTE: All release dates are tentative and subject to change.
    (1) The Panasonic FZ-1 is the only 3DO console currently available. It has >> been released in the US and Japan, and a UK release is scheduled for Fall '94.
    (2) Sanyo has stated the Japanese release will come before the American
    release, which is currently scheduled for August.
    (3) The AT&T 3DO will optionally include a modem for networked games and
    communication.
    (4) For more information on the Creative labs PC card, see question 3.3
    (5) Toshiba has announced plans to develop a portable version of the 3DO system
    that can be installed in automobiles. It is believed to be a car navigation >> system of some sort, and should be available in Japan in late '94.
    [1.7] I thought the Sanyo 3DO console was cancelled? EGM says so!
    A: This is incorrect. A news article came out in November '93 saying that
    the Sanyo 3DO had been shelved, but it turned out to be false information. >> EGM picked up this story and printed it. Both 3DO and Sanyo contacted EGM
    to tell them the story was false, but EGM amazingly refused to retract their >> story. The information about the cancellation of the Sanyo 3DO in the March >> issue of EGM is incorrect. Sanyo has announced that they will release their >> own 3DO console in August, and at a price "lower than Panasonics." No
    specific price has been given.
    [1.8] What's this I hear about a "reduced-cost" 3DO chipset?
    A: 3DO has re-worked their chipset to reduce the cost of manufacturing. The >> new chipset has no more or less functionality or speed than the previous one,
    it simply combines several chips into one to reduce the cost of making it. The
    new chipset should be available in quantity soon and is slated to be used in >> the new Sanyo 3DO.
    [1.9] Will each 3DO system be compatible?
    A: Yes. You will be able to run all 3DO software on any manufacturers
    system. However, each system can be customized to some extent by the
    manufacturer to add their own special features.. for example the modem on
    the AT&T console.
    [1.10] Will I be able to play current 3DO software on the next generation 3DO
    system?
    A: Yes. Right now 3DO intends that you will be able to play current 3DO
    software on any future 3DO compatible machine.
    [1.11] Will I be able to upgrade my current 3DO console to a next generation >> 3DO console(through the FMV expansion port perhaps) when it is available?
    A: Its not known if there will be the ability to upgrade current 3DO hardware
    into next generation 3DO hardware. Very little is known about the next
    version of the 3DO, and it is presumed that it is only in the early planning >> stages at this point in time.
    [1.12] Is the 3DO just going to be an educational system?
    A: No. While educational and informational programs are going to be an
    important part of the 3DO software library, there will also be lots of
    games. Trip Hawkins is said to love games, and the system was designed
    by game players almost certainly with games in mind.
    [1.13] Is the 3DO just going to be a games system?
    A: No. Childrens, educational, and reference/informational programs are
    planned to be a large part of the 3DO software library.
    [1.14] Is the 3DO the same as CD-I?
    A: No. CD-I stands for "CD Interactive" and is a system developed by Phillips
    Electronics. The two systems *are not* compatible and are totally unrelated. >> [1.15] Which system is better, the 3DO or the Jaguar?
    A: It isn't really known. Due to the bus design and architecture of the
    3DO, the two systems cannot easily be compared. Only time and software
    will begin to show the different abilities of the two systems.
    People in the newsgroup rec.games.video.advocacy will almost certainly be
    discussing this issue. Check there for more information, but only if you are >> strong in body and spirit. :) System wars are well known for their ferocity. >> [1.16] Where can I ftp 3DO related files?
    A: the ftp site ftp.ee.pdx.edu (131.252.10.155) has 3DO related materials, >> including the latest version of this FAQ, in the directory /pub/gaming/3DO. >> New files can be submitted in the /pub/incoming directory.
    ===============SECTION 2 - 3DO Founders and Company information================
    [2.1] What does 3DO stand for?
    A: Nothing, really. Some people have said it stands for "3 Dimensional
    Objects," or "3 Dollars Only," (The current licensing fee per disc) but the >> general consensus is that it means it is the next step after audio and video:
    audio, video, "threedeo."
    [2.2] Who developed the 3DO system?
    A: Dave Needle and RJ Mical are named as co-inventors of the Machine. Needle >> and Mical previously worked on the the design team of the original Amiga
    computer, and on the design of the Atari Lynx handheld gaming system. The NTG
    (New Technologies Group) company designed most of the 3DO technology/hardware.
    [2.3] Who is Trip Hawkins?
    A: Trip Hawkins is the founder and CEO of the 3DO Company. He is also the
    founder of Electronic Arts, a well known software publishing company. Trip >> is the driving force behind the creation and development of the 3DO.
    [2.4] Who are the seven partners that make up 3DO?
    A: Matsushita, AT&T, Time Warner, MCA, Electronic Arts, venture capital firm >> Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and the New Technologies Group(NTG). NTG >> was previously a separate company but has now merged into the 3DO company and
    no longer exists as a separate entity.
    [2.5] How does the 3DO company make money?
    A: 3DO gets a small royalty for each 3DO console sold. They also get a
    royalty on each 3DO software disc sold. The 3DO disc royalty is currently
    at $3 per disc. Since 3DO does not directly manufacture the 3DO consoles or >> software, it has little control over their retail pricing.
    [2.6] What about 3DO's stock?
    A: In mid-March, 1993, 3DO entered into the stock market with an initial
    public offering (IPO) that values the entire company at around $300 million. >> 3DO has recently started a promotion offering 3DO hardware manufacturers two >> shares of 3DO common stock for each hardware system shipped at or below certain
    retail prices before Sept. 30, 1994. All of the current hardware licensees >> are eligible to take part in this promotion.
    [2.7] How do I contact the 3DO company?
    A: Contact 3DO's public relations department at:
    The 3DO Company
    600 Galveston Dr.
    Redwood City, Ca 94063
    (415) 261-3000
    ============SECTION 3 - Hardware, Peripherals, and Specifications=============
    [3.1] What Peripherals are coming for the 3DO?
    A: Peripherals have been announced by Logitech and CH Products. Alps Electric,
    Inc. has also signed on to create 3DO peripherals but has not announced any >> products as of yet. Logitech is going to produce a mouse for the 3DO, and CH >> Products an analog joystick. No release dates have been made public for either
    product. A keyboard peripheral is also expected.
    [3.2] Is there going to be a modem for the 3DO?
    A: Yes, AT&T is planning on releasing both a 3DO console that includes a modem
    and an add-on modem peripheral for modem-less 3DO consoles. The AT&T modem >> will incorporate AT&T's VoiceSpan voice-over-data technology that allows
    players to talk with the person they are networked with. (note: AT&T also
    plans on releasing a 3DO console without a modem.)
    [3.3] What about the PC 3DO card?
    A: Creative Technology Ltd. plans to jointly develop a 3DO-compatible personal
    computer plug-in card. This card will allow properly configured PC compatibles
    to play 3DO software titles. Creative Technology will manufacture and market >> the card. No release date or further information is available yet.
    [3.4] Can the Panasonic 3DO control pad do diagonals? I sure can't get mine to!
    A: Diagonals can be done on the Panasonic 3DO directional pad, but they take >> excessive force. There is a simple solution, however, that allows diagonal >> movement to be done easily. David Liu ([email protected]) says:
    "One merely needs to partially unscrew the six screws which hold the
    controller in place. Unscrewing only the three screws on the right side of >> the bottom face of the controller three turns each restores much of the
    control; loosening the remaining screws slightly can be used to tune the
    sensitivity of the controller. The origin of the problem may be that the
    rubber contact pad and the plastic control disk are pressed too tightly in >> the factory-produced controllers, causing a slight warping of the rubber pad.
    Loosening the two halves of the controller, however, remedies this problem." >> Many thanks to David Liu for this quick and simple fix! Remember, although >> this is a simple procedure, neither David nor I can bear any responsibility for
    damage done to your controllers while attempting this fix.
    There is also a slightly trickier and more involved method developed by Casey
    Grimm that might be a better fix. It involves taking apart the control pad and
    cutting a small part of the thumb pad. This fix can be found on ftp.ee.pdx.edu
    for those who are interested.
    [3.5] What is the resolution of the 3DO system?
    A: The resolution displayed on screen is 640x480. However, the 3DO has an
    internal resolution of 320x240 or 320x480, with each pixel being either 24-bits
    or 16-bits. The 16-bit mode is almost always used for animations, while the >> 24-bit mode is used mostly for still pictures. There are no other resolutions
    available. The internal resolution is interpolated into an anti-aliased
    640x480 pixel display. The interpolation can be turned on and off via
    software.
    [3.6] Can the 3DO do real 24-bit color?
    A: The 3DO can do 16 bit graphics with CLUTs(Color Look Up Tables) drawn from
    24 bits, or it can do true 24 bit graphics.
    [3.7] What does it mean when 3DO product literature says that the system
    can "animate 64 million pixels per second?"
    A: The system is capable of animating up to 64 million 16-bit on-screen
    pixels per second. This is really 16 million internal 16-bit pixels
    that are then interpolated as they are displayed on the screen to 640 by
    480 pixel resolution, quadrupling the number of pixels displayed on screen. >> [3.8] What are the detailed specs of the system?
    A: According to information from an article about the 3DO in Popular Science,
    the 3DO has an interesting design. Instead of a straightforward single bus >> configuration, it seems to have a multiple bus configuration. This in theory >> allows multiple components to be operating simultaneously, with less bus
    contention problems than would be found in a standard single-bus design.
    The heart of the system is two Graphics and animation processors which are >> capable of rendering up to 64 million texture mapped pixels per second
    (interpolated). The Graphics animation processors and the DSP are custom
    designed by NTG, a division of the 3DO Company.
    The block diagram shown below is taken from an article on the 3DO system in the
    Dec. 93 issue of Popular Science Magazine.

    Graphics Graphics
    --------- animation animation
    | 3DO | processor processor
    | block | |32|____________|32|
    |diagram| |________ ________|
    M --------- |32|
    o _____|__|_____
    n __ Video _______ 1MB ______| |____ 2MB
    i __ processor_______ VRAM __32__| |_32_ DRAM
    t | |
    o | |
    r | DMA |____ Expansion __ CDROM
    | controller |_32_ Port Control __ Drive
    | |
    A | |___ Control __ Control pad
    u__ D/A __ Digital ______| |_8_ Port __ 3d goggles
    d__ Converter __ Signal __16__|____________| keyboard
    i Processor |32|
    o ______________________| |
    | ______ _________ |
    |32| |32| |32|
    Optional Video 32-bit RISC _____ Math Co- ___ ROM &
    Video --> Video Decomp Processor _____ Processor ___ SRAM
    Input Port/plug
    Specs:
    -32-bit 12.5Mhz RISC CPU (ARM60) made by Advanced RISC Machines
    (Roughly equivalent to a 25Mhz 68030)
    -640x480 pixel resolution at 16.7 million colors
    -Two Accelerated Video Co-Processors with the following features:
    + 25Mhz clock rate.
    + Capable of producing 9-16 million REAL pixels per second (36-64 Mpix/sec >> interpolated), distorted, scaled, rotated and texture mapped.
    + Able to map a rectangular bitmap onto any arbitrary 4-point polygon.
    + Texturemap source bitmaps can be 1,2,4,6,8, or 16 bits per pixel and are >> compressed for a maximum combination of both high resolution and small
    storage space.
    + Supports transparency, translucency, and color-shading effects.
    -Custom 16-bit Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with the following features: >> + specifically designed for mixing, manipulating, and synthesizing CD
    quality sound.
    + 25Mhz clock rate.
    + Pipelined CISC architecture.
    + 16-bit register size.
    + 17 separate 16-bit DMA channels to and from system memory.
    + On chip instruction SRAM and register memory.
    + 20-bit internal processing.
    + Special filtering capable of creating effects such as 3D sound.
    -Separate BUS for video refresh updates (VRAM is dual ported)
    -Super Fast BUS Speed (50 Megabytes per second)
    -Math Co-Processor custom designed by NTG for accelerating fixed-point matrix
    operations. (Note: This is *not* the ARM FPA)
    -CD-ROM Drive with the following features:
    + 320ms access time
    + Doublespeed 300kbps Data Transfer
    + 32kbyte ram buffer
    -2 megabytes of DRAM
    -1 megabyte of VRAM (also capable of holding/executing code and data)
    -1 megabyte of ROM
    -36 Separate DMA Channels for fast data processing and efficient bus usage >> -2 expansion ports:
    + 1 High-speed 68 pin x 1 AV I/O port (for FMV cartridge)
    + 1 High-speed 30 pin x 1 I/O expansion port
    -1 Control port, capable of daisy chaining together up to 8 peripherals
    -Multitasking 32-bit Operating System
    -16-bit Stereo Sound
    -44.1KHz Sound Sampling Rate
    -Fully Supports Dolby(tm) Surround Sound
    -32kb battery backed up SRAM
    -Upgradable
    ==================SECTION 4 - System and Application Software==================
    [4.1] What about the 3DO operating system?
    A: The 3DO OS is a fully-featured 32-bit multitasking operating system written
    specifically for the 3DO by NTG. Developers *must* use the OS for a variety of
    reasons, the main one being to maintain compatibility with all 3DO consoles and
    future next generation 3DO consoles. The OS is loaded from an application's CD
    when the system starts up, and is not in the consoles ROM. Contrary to rumors,
    there is no way to bypass the OS and "hack" directly on the hardware.
    The 3DO OS consists of two parts:
    1) A multitasking kernel with drivers for peripherals, a complete file system,
    and support for physical storage.
    2) Several software "folios" that provide a link between application software
    and the 3DO hardware, and are designed to allow software compatibility as new
    versions of the hardware are developed. The following six subsystems make up >> the entire "Portfolio" of 3DO OS system calls:
    The Decompression Folio
    - supports software and hardware decompression of audio and video data.
    The Math Folio
    - performs many of the high level calculations.
    The Graphics Folio
    - provides access to the 3DO's cel and display subsystems for doing graphics >> effects and animation. The effects include warping, transparency, lighting >> effects, anti-aliasing, and texture mapping.
    The 3-D Folio
    - system code for creating 3-D effects and doing complex calculations.
    The Audio Folio
    - supports the creation and manipulation of sound effects and music. This
    includes proprietary algorithms called "3D audio imaging" that create the
    illusion of sound coming not only from the left and right, but front and
    back (when wearing headphones). These algorithms can also produce Doppler
    effects and reverberations.
    The File System Folio
    - manages the file system
    [4.2] How is 3DO application software developed?
    A: 3DO Software is developed on high-end Macintosh computers via an easy to >> use toolkit and development station created by the 3DO Company. The develop- >> ment station consists of a special 3DO that has several debugging features and
    is interfaced to the Macintosh computer. The toolkit contains emulation
    software and programming and authoring tools that include a source level
    debugger, 2D animation and imaging software, 3D modeling software, and video >> and file translation tools as well as Macromedia's Director, MacroModel, and >> Three-D. Software licensees also get a vast "content library" from the 3DO >> partners: 170 CDs carrying 111 gigabytes of music, sound effects, photos, film
    clips, clip art, and text references, all available to knit into their work. >> [4.3] How is the 3DO's NVRAM structured?
    A: The 3DO's non-volatile static ram is structured like a file system. It
    cannot be written to directly by an application, OS calls _must_ be used
    to read, write, create, or delete files in the NVRAM. Any program, however, >> can read, modify, or delete any other programs files if it wishes too. 3DO >> strongly suggests developers not write software that deletes other programs >> files without the permission of the user.
    [4.3] How do I become a 3DO developer?
    A: For information on becoming a 3DO developer, call the 3DO New Developer INFO
    Line at (415)261-3202.
    [4.4] Will 3DO software be censored at all?
    A: No.
    [4.5] Will 3DO software have a ratings system of some kind?
    A: Yes, at the current time 3DO is going to have an optional rating system >> that will be administered by the software publisher. The publisher will
    determine what audience is suitable for their title, and then place the
    appropriate rating on it. The ratings are as follows:
    A green circle with an "E" in it: Everyone, suitable for all ages.
    A yellow diamond with a "12" in it: Games suitable for persons 12 and up.
    A yellow diamond with a "17" in it: Games suitable for persons 17 and up.
    A red octagon with "AO" in it: Adults Only.
    [4.6] Who is developing software for the 3DO?
    A: Reportedly over 550 companies are licensed 3DO developers, with more than >> 550 third-party development systems installed and 200 software companies
    worldwide actively developing titles. Some of the more well known companies >> developing for the 3DO are Electronic Arts, Origin, Virgin Games, Dynamix, >> Acclaim, Konami, Interplay, Crystal Dynamics, Psygnosis, and Microprose.
    [4.7] What software is going to be available for the 3DO?
    A: Here is a list of 3DO software from Enrique Conty:
    I've compiled a list of 3DO software, from brochures and other official
    releases, and net information. Feel free to inform me of any additions
    or corrections.
    Software available (you can pick these in stores NOW):
    Title Publisher Type
    20th Century Video Almanac Software Toolworks Reference
    BattleChess Interplay Chess
    CPU Bach Microprose Education
    Crash & Burn Crystal Dynamics Racing/Shooter
    Dennis Miller - It's News to Me Sanctuary Woods Canned Video/comedy
    Dragon's Lair Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Escape From Monster Manor EA/Studio 3DO Action
    Fatty Bear's Birthday Surprise Humongous Entertainment Education
    Fatty Bear's Fun Pack Humongous Entertainment Education
    Horde, The Crystal Dynamics Action/Strategy
    Incredible Machine, The Dynamix Puzzle
    Interactive Aerobics Intelliplay Fitness/Workout
    It's a Bird's Life Sanctuary Woods Education
    John Madden Football Electronic Arts Sports
    Lemmings Psygnosis Puzzle
    Life Stage, The Panasonic Virtual House
    Mad Dog McCree Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Night Trap Virgin Games Canned Video/Puzzle
    Oceans Below Software Toolworks Education
    Pebble Beach Golf T & E Software Sports
    Putt-Putt Joins the Parade Humongous Entertainment Education
    Putt-Putt's Fun Pack Humongous Entertainment Education
    Putt-Putt Goes to the Moon Humongous Entertainment Education
    San Diego Zoo: The Animals Software Toolworks Education
    Sewer Shark Virgin Games Canned Video/Shooter
    Stellar 7 Dynamix Action/Shooter
    Super Wing Commander Origin Flightsim
    Total Eclipse Crystal Dynamics Shooter
    Twisted EA/Studio 3DO Puzzle
    Woody Woodpecker Cartoon Vol1-3 Universal Home Video Cartoon
    Software in production (not yet done, but officially announced):
    Title Publisher Type
    3D Adventures Acclaim Adventure
    3D Football Acclaim Sports
    7th Guest II: The 11th Hour Trilobyte/Virgin Puzzle
    Air Warrior GameTek Flightsim
    Alien Trilogy Acclaim 3-D Action
    Alone in the Dark Interplay Adventure/Action
    Baseball: Catching IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Defensive Play IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Hitting IntelliPlay Education
    Baseball: Pitching IntelliPlay Education
    Chaos Control Infogrames Shooter
    C.I.T.Y 2000 Paris Aditus Mystery
    Cool Knight Readysoft Music
    Cool Spot Virgin Games Platform
    Cowboy Casino IntelliPlay Education
    Creature Shock Argonaut Action/Arcade
    Crime Patrol Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Demolition Man Virgin Action/Arcade
    Dennis Miller - It's Geek to Me Sanctuary Woods Canned Video/comedy
    Dragon Tales Mindscape RPG
    Dragon's Lair II Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Dragon Knight III MegaTech Adult Adventure
    Falcon Spectrum Holobyte Flightsim
    Family Feud GameTek Game Show
    FIFA Soccer Electronic Arts Sports
    Football: Defensive Backfield IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Linemen IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Quarterback IntelliPlay Education
    Football: Receiver IntelliPlay Education
    Frommer's M'media Travel Guide Frommers Reference
    Gradius Konami Shooter
    Gridders Tetragon Action/Strategy
    Humans, The GameTek Action/Strategy
    Inspector Danger's Crime Quiz Digital Productions Puzzle
    Interactive Aerobics ? Exercise
    Jurassic Park Interactive MCA/Studio 3DO Action/Adventure
    Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes Electronic Arts Adventure
    Mad Dog Mcree II: The Lost Gold American Laser Games Canned Video/Shooter
    Maelstrom Readysoft Strategy(?)
    Mega Race The Software Toolworks Racing
    Microcosm Psygnosis Shooter
    Mieko Digital Productions Education
    Orion Off-Road Crystal Dynamics Shooter
    Out Of This World Interplay Adventure
    PatAank PF Magic Futuristic Pinball
    Peter Gabriels Explora 1 ? Interactive music
    Peter Pan Electronic Arts Paint/Education
    PGA Tour Golf Electronic Arts Sports
    Powerslide Elite Systems ?
    Rap Rock n Roll I & II Paramount Interactive interactive music
    Real Pinball ? Pinball
    Red Baron Dynamix Flightsim
    Return to Zork Activision Adventure
    Return Fire Silent Software ?
    Road Rash Electronic Arts Racing
    Rock and Roll Racing Interplay Action/Arcade
    Rise of the Robots Mirage Fighting
    Santa Fe Trail Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Scavenger 4 Psygnosis Canned Video/Shooter
    Scorched Earth Electronic Arts ?
    Seawolf SSN-21 Electronic Arts Subsim
    Sesame Street: Numbers Electronic Arts Education
    Shadow Caster Origin RPG
    Shock Wave Electronic Arts Flightsim
    Silly Classix!... At the Museum VideoactV Cartoon?
    Space Ace Readysoft Canned Video/Adventure
    Space Pirates Crystal Dynamics Canned Video/Shooter
    Space Shuttle The Software Toolworks Simulation
    Star Control II Crystal Dyanamics Adventure/RPG
    Star Trek: The Next Generation Spectrum Holobyte Adventure
    Star Trek: TNG Technical Manual Paramount Interactive Reference
    Street Fighter II Complete Capcom Fighting
    Syndicate Electronic Arts Strategy
    Theme Park Bullfrog Strategy/Sim
    Tigernaut: Beyond the Stars ? ?
    Tom Kite: Consistent Golf IntelliPlay Education
    ToonTime!.. In the classroom VideoactV Cartoon?
    Universal Studios Orbital MCA Adventure/Strategy(?)
    Virtuoso Elite Systems ?
    Way of the Warrior Naughty Dog Software Fighting
    Who Shot Johnny Rock American Laser Games Canned Video/Shooter
    Whole Dog Almanac, The Digital Productions Education
    Japanese Titles in production or released:
    Title Publisher
    Burning Soldier Pack-in Video
    Chiki Chiki Machine Race Future Pirates
    Doctor Hauzer Riverhill Soft
    Fireball Japan Data Works
    Kyoto Mystery Pack-in Video/Panasonic
    Mask of the Black Death, The Humming Bird Soft/Panasonic
    Nontan To Issho Victor Entertainment/Panasonic
    Professional Mah Jong Goku ascii/Panasonic
    Shogi Special Ascii
    Takeru Fun Project/Panasonic
    Tetsujin Synergy/Panasonic
    Theatre Wars Hakuhodo/Panasonic
    Toki O Koeta Tegami Thinking Rabbit/Panasonic
    Virtual Quest Ask Kondansha
    Ultraman Power Bandai
    Software list compiled by:
    Enrique Conty [email protected] or [email protected]
    [4.8] Sometimes I hear "popping" and "clicking" noises while playing Crash and
    Burn and other games. Is something wrong with my 3DO?
    A: No, nothing is wrong with your 3DO. There was a bug in the 3DO OS's audio

    [continued in next message]

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