Difference between revisions of "Freelancer"
(Changed Cockpit, Chase and DeathCamera fovx to it's vanilla 70. Using 90 is effectively a cheat and might have negative repurcussions for players on multiplayer servers.) |
(→Network: dead link replaced with alternative) |
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|publishers = | |publishers = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Microsoft Game Studios}} | {{Infobox game/row/publisher|Microsoft Game Studios}} | ||
− | |||
|release dates= | |release dates= | ||
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|March 4, 2003}} | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|March 4, 2003}} | ||
+ | |reception = | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|freelancer|85}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|freelancer|}} | ||
+ | |taxonomy = | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization | One-time game purchase }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes | Singleplayer, Multiplayer}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing | Real-time}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives | First-person, Third-person}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls | Direct control}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | Action, Open world, Simulation}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | Space flight}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles | Stylized}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes | Sci-fi, Space}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | }} | ||
|steam appid = | |steam appid = | ||
− | |gogcom | + | |steam appid side = |
+ | |gogcom id = | ||
+ | |gogcom id side = | ||
+ | |official site= https://web.archive.org/web/20131007024331/http://www.microsoft.com/games/freelancer/ | ||
+ | |hltb = 3697 | ||
+ | |igdb = freelancer | ||
+ | |lutris = freelancer | ||
+ | |mobygames = freelancer | ||
|strategywiki = Freelancer | |strategywiki = Freelancer | ||
|wikipedia = Freelancer (video game) | |wikipedia = Freelancer (video game) | ||
|winehq = 1871 | |winehq = 1871 | ||
+ | |license = commercial | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ''' | + | {{Introduction |
− | {{ | + | |introduction = '''''Freelancer''''' is a {{Glossary:Singleplayer}}/{{Glossary:Multiplayer}} {{Glossary:Open world}} {{Glossary:Space}} {{Glossary:Simulation}} game where the player flies around in spacecraft as a freelancer engaging in bounty hunting, piracy, trading, or all three at once. The world takes place in the Sirius Sector which spans across 48 star systems containing planets, space stations, and NPCs to interact with. Singleplayer puts the player in the shoes of Edison Trent who goes through a multitude of missions to solve a sector wide conspiracy he is unintentionally dragged into. Multiplayer skips the storyline and immediately unlocks all of the Sirius Sector for the player to explore where they can cooperate with or oppose other players. It was created by [[Company:Digital Anvil|Digital Anvil]] and is a chronological successor to the game [[StarLancer]]. |
− | {{--}} | + | |
− | {{ | + | |release history = ''Freelancer'' was first officially announced in late 1997<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://archive.org/stream/NextGeneration34Oct1997/Next_Generation_34_Oct_1997_djvu.txt#:~:text=The%20digital%20desperado|title=The Digital Desperado|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> with a release date sometime in the fall of 2000.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070520184143/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/sim/freelancer/news.html?sid=2452393|title=Chris Roberts Back In the Game|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> Due to delays the project suffered and the need for more capital,<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061207184615/www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=27412|title=PC Preview: Freelancer|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> ''Freelancer'' wouldn't officially release until March 4, 2003<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070812085957/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/sim/freelancer/news.html?sid=2912030|title=Microsoft Ships Freelancer|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> under the guidance of [[Company:Microsoft Game Studios|Microsoft Game Studios]] who bought [[Company:Digital Anvil|Digital Anvil]] at the end of 2000.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070223152545/http://pc.ign.com/articles/088/088608p1.html|title=Digital Anvil Interview|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> After release, Digital Anvil's one and only update to the game was the official v1.1 patch released on June 6, 2003 to fix server stability and correct cheating exploits.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090203123213/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/sim/freelancer/download_6029618.html|title=Freelancer v1.1 Patch|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> |
+ | |||
+ | |current state = [[Company:Microsoft|Microsoft]] officially stopped supporting the game on April 8, 2008 which included the shutdown of the global list server, a dedicated service that provided a listing of available multiplayer servers and a means for players to connect to them.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112172440/http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?LN=en-us&x=15&y=14&p1=1895|title=Microsoft Product Lifecycle|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> However, due to the efforts of the community, a workaround was created to replace the now defunct Microsoft global list server, enabling current and future players the ability to use the in-game multiplayer connection manager.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.moddb.com/games/freelancer/downloads/freelancer-global-server-workaround-v10|title=Global Server Workaround v1.0|date=2022-04-02}}</ref> Even with the lack of official support from Microsoft, the ''Freelancer'' community continues to maintain a sizeable presence on ''The Starport'' web forum, multiple Discord servers, game servers, and modding teams. | ||
+ | }} | ||
'''General information''' | '''General information''' | ||
− | {{mm}} [http://the-starport.net/ The Starport] - | + | {{mm}} [http://the-starport.net/ The Starport] - The main Freelancer community web forum |
− | {{mm}} [ | + | {{mm}} [https://discord.com/invite/c6wtsBk Freelancer Galactic Community] - The main Freelancer community Discord server |
− | {{mm}} | + | {{mm}} [https://freelancer.fandom.com/wiki/Main_Page Freelancer Wiki] |
==Availability== | ==Availability== | ||
Line 32: | Line 58: | ||
==Essential improvements== | ==Essential improvements== | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
===Patches=== | ===Patches=== | ||
{{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/846-freelancer-update/ Update v1.1] is an official patch that primarily affects server stability for multi-player and is not necessary for single player. It does not address any graphics or sound issues mentioned below. | {{ii}} [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/846-freelancer-update/ Update v1.1] is an official patch that primarily affects server stability for multi-player and is not necessary for single player. It does not address any graphics or sound issues mentioned below. | ||
+ | {{ii}} '''[http://adoxa.altervista.org/freelancer/index.html Jason's Freelancer Patch v1.25]''' is a community made patch that provides many improvements, some new features, and widescreen support while maintaining compatibility with vanilla servers. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Modifications=== | ||
+ | * '''[https://www.moddb.com/mods/freelancer-hd-edition Freelancer: HD Edition]''' is a mod that aims to improve every aspect of Freelancer while keeping the look and feel as close to vanilla as possible. Includes both the official patch, community patch, and widescreen fixes. ''Singleplayer and multiplayer, vanilla server compatible. Unknown compatibility with current mods.'' | ||
+ | * '''[https://www.moddb.com/mods/discovery-freelancer Discovery Freelancer]''' expands on the original Freelancer storyline by rebalancing the game to, as close as possible, suit a Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing experience, adding many new technical features and game content, as well as developments in existing story arcs and lore. ''Multiplayer only, not compatible with other mods.'' | ||
+ | * '''[https://www.moddb.com/mods/crossfire Crossfire]''' is one of the largest and most complex Freelancer modification available. It builds and extends the Freelancer universe in both gameplay and story while pushing the boundaries of what's possible through modding the game. ''Singleplayer and Multiplayer, not compatible with other mods.'' | ||
+ | * '''[https://www.moddb.com/mods/freelancer-nomad-legacy Freelancer: The Nomad Legacy]''' is a mod that is set in an alterate universe to the base game with a new story to tell. It aims to push the technological boundaries of what the game engine can do. ''Releasing, work in progress.'' | ||
+ | *'''[https://librelancer.net/ LibreLancer]''' is a cross-platform, open source game engine re-implementing the 2003 space trading and combat game Freelancer. ''Releasing, work in progress.'' | ||
===Utilities=== | ===Utilities=== | ||
− | * '''[ | + | * '''[https://www.moddb.com/downloads/freelancer-mod-manager-15 Freelancer Mod Manager v1.5]''' is a program that simplifies installing and managing mods for the game. Mods compatible with this program have file extension <code>*.flmod</code>. |
− | + | *'''[http://adoxa.altervista.org/freelancer/tools.html#flstat FLStat]''' parses the game files to build a database to show stats on bases, factions, weapons, and ships all within a clean and easy to use GUI. | |
− | + | * '''[http://wiz0u.free.fr/prog/flc/ Freelancer Companion]''' is a tool that helps players quickly find the best profitable and shortest trade routes, showing them on the map with precise timing. | |
− | * '''[http:// | ||
==Game data== | ==Game data== | ||
===Configuration file(s) location=== | ===Configuration file(s) location=== | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
− | {{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile}} | + | {{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\My Games\Freelancer\PerfOptions.ini|{{p|game}}\DATA\}} |
}} | }} | ||
===Save game data location=== | ===Save game data location=== | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
− | {{Game data/saves|Windows|}} | + | {{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\My Games\Freelancer\Accts}} |
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Video | + | ==Video== |
{{Image|Freelancer video settings.png|Video settings.}} | {{Image|Freelancer video settings.png|Video settings.}} | ||
− | {{Video | + | {{Video |
− | |wsgf link = | + | |wsgf link = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/freelancer |
|widescreen wsgf award = incomplete | |widescreen wsgf award = incomplete | ||
|multimonitor wsgf award = unsupported | |multimonitor wsgf award = unsupported | ||
Line 81: | Line 111: | ||
|antialiasing = false | |antialiasing = false | ||
|antialiasing notes = | |antialiasing notes = | ||
+ | |upscaling = false | ||
+ | |upscaling tech = | ||
+ | |upscaling notes = | ||
|vsync = false | |vsync = false | ||
|vsync notes = | |vsync notes = | ||
Line 87: | Line 120: | ||
|120 fps = unknown | |120 fps = unknown | ||
|120 fps notes = | |120 fps notes = | ||
− | |hdr = | + | |hdr = false |
|hdr notes = | |hdr notes = | ||
|color blind = unknown | |color blind = unknown | ||
Line 101: | Line 134: | ||
If you plan on playing any multiplayer it is recommended that you do '''not''' use this option as it might be detected as cheating. Instead you should go for the INI editing option described further down. Do note that some of the servers that are still around use special mods, some of these mods include their own widescreen support. | If you plan on playing any multiplayer it is recommended that you do '''not''' use this option as it might be detected as cheating. Instead you should go for the INI editing option described further down. Do note that some of the servers that are still around use special mods, some of these mods include their own widescreen support. | ||
− | # Download [ | + | # Download [http://adoxa.altervista.org/freelancer/index.html JFLP.DLL]. |
# Extract to the EXE folder within the game's install folder. | # Extract to the EXE folder within the game's install folder. | ||
# Open {{file|dacom.ini}} within the EXE folder. | # Open {{file|dacom.ini}} within the EXE folder. | ||
Line 108: | Line 141: | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Edit Ini files|ref=<ref>http://www.craigmayhew.com/blog/2008/09/freelancer-high-resolution-hack/</ref>|fix= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Edit Ini files|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.craigmayhew.com/blog/2008/09/freelancer-high-resolution-hack/|title=craigmayhew.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= |
− | * Open <code>{{p|userprofile}} | + | * Open <code>{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\My Games\Freelancer\PerfOptions.ini</code> |
* At the bottom it will say <code>[Display]</code> and underneath <code>size=</code> change it to 1920, 1080 (or whatever resolution you want to use). Notice the space in between the 1920, 1080. | * At the bottom it will say <code>[Display]</code> and underneath <code>size=</code> change it to 1920, 1080 (or whatever resolution you want to use). Notice the space in between the 1920, 1080. | ||
* Now save and exit. | * Now save and exit. | ||
Line 398: | Line 431: | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Input | + | ==Input== |
− | {{Input | + | {{Input |
|key remap = true | |key remap = true | ||
|key remap notes = | |key remap notes = | ||
Line 430: | Line 463: | ||
|steam input api = unknown | |steam input api = unknown | ||
|steam input api notes = | |steam input api notes = | ||
+ | |steam hook input = unknown | ||
+ | |steam hook input notes = | ||
|steam input presets = unknown | |steam input presets = unknown | ||
|steam input presets notes = | |steam input presets notes = | ||
|steam controller prompts = unknown | |steam controller prompts = unknown | ||
|steam controller prompts notes = | |steam controller prompts notes = | ||
+ | |steam cursor detection = unknown | ||
+ | |steam cursor detection notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Audio | + | ==Audio== |
− | {{Audio | + | {{Audio |
|separate volume = true | |separate volume = true | ||
|separate volume notes = | |separate volume notes = | ||
− | |surround sound = | + | |surround sound = true |
− | |surround sound notes = | + | |surround sound notes = With 3D sound option on. |
|subtitles = false | |subtitles = false | ||
|subtitles notes = | |subtitles notes = | ||
|closed captions = false | |closed captions = false | ||
|closed captions notes = | |closed captions notes = | ||
− | |mute on focus lost = | + | |mute on focus lost = always on |
− | |mute on focus lost notes = | + | |mute on focus lost notes = |
|eax support = | |eax support = | ||
|eax support notes = | |eax support notes = | ||
+ | |royalty free audio = always on | ||
+ | |royalty free audio notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 455: | Line 494: | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
|language = English | |language = English | ||
− | |interface = | + | |interface = true |
− | |audio = | + | |audio = true |
− | |subtitles = | + | |subtitles = false |
|notes = | |notes = | ||
|fan = | |fan = | ||
− | |fan notes = | + | }} |
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = German | ||
+ | |interface = true | ||
+ | |audio = true | ||
+ | |subtitles = false | ||
+ | |notes = [http://schote.biz/sprachdateien-deutschpatches/13-freelancer/378-deutsche-stimmen-sprachausgabe.html Sound], [http://schote.biz/sprachdateien-deutschpatches/13-freelancer/379-deutsche-texte.html Text] | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = Russian | ||
+ | |interface = hackable | ||
+ | |audio = false | ||
+ | |subtitles = false | ||
+ | |fan = true | ||
+ | |notes = [https://www.elite-games.ru/freelancer/files.shtml Fan translation by users forum «Elite-Games.ru»] | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
|language = Spanish | |language = Spanish | ||
− | |interface = | + | |interface = hackable |
− | |audio = | + | |audio = false |
− | |subtitles = | + | |subtitles = hackable |
− | + | |fan = true | |
− | |fan = | + | |notes = Fan translation by ''Clan Dlan'', [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PntVmsuUkm-xJoiQeqtYuvMawGYYVjFH/view?usp=drive_link download]. Cinematic subtitles (authors: L@Zar0, darkpadawan) [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgDmKyvswmYojPaboiiwhMVz6Ndp58fD/view?usp=drive_link Subtitles mod]. |
− | | | ||
}} | }} | ||
}} | }} | ||
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|local play modes = | |local play modes = | ||
|local play notes = | |local play notes = | ||
− | |lan play = | + | |lan play = true |
− | |lan play players = | + | |lan play players = 128 |
|lan play modes = | |lan play modes = | ||
− | |lan play notes = | + | |lan play notes = Incompatible with Ipv6.<ref>[https://gaming.stackexchange.com/questions/149680/how-to-fix-freelancer-not-connecting-to-a-localhost-server How to fix Freelancer not connecting to a localhost server?] - Gaming Stack Exchange</ref> |
|online play = hackable | |online play = hackable | ||
− | |online play players = | + | |online play players = 128 |
|online play modes = | |online play modes = | ||
− | |online play notes = Official servers are offline; use replacement [ | + | |online play notes = Official servers are offline; use replacement [https://flserver.de/topservers.htm Freelancer listserver]. |
|asynchronous = | |asynchronous = | ||
|asynchronous notes = | |asynchronous notes = | ||
Line 494: | Line 546: | ||
|p2p = | |p2p = | ||
|p2p notes = | |p2p notes = | ||
− | |dedicated = | + | |dedicated = true |
|dedicated notes = | |dedicated notes = | ||
|self-hosting = | |self-hosting = | ||
|self-hosting notes = | |self-hosting notes = | ||
− | |direct ip = | + | |direct ip = false |
|direct ip notes = | |direct ip notes = | ||
}}{{Network/Ports | }}{{Network/Ports | ||
|tcp = | |tcp = | ||
− | |udp = | + | |udp = 2302 |
− | |upnp = | + | |upnp = unknown |
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==VR support== | ||
+ | {{VR support | ||
+ | |gg3d name = | ||
+ | |native 3d gg3d award = | ||
+ | |nvidia 3d vision gg3d award = | ||
+ | |tridef 3d gg3d award = | ||
+ | |iz3d gg3d award = | ||
+ | |native 3d = | ||
+ | |native 3d notes = | ||
+ | |nvidia 3d vision = | ||
+ | |nvidia 3d vision notes = | ||
+ | |tridef 3d = | ||
+ | |tridef 3d notes = | ||
+ | |iz3d = | ||
+ | |iz3d notes = | ||
+ | |vr only = | ||
+ | |vorpx = true | ||
+ | |vorpx modes = G3D | ||
+ | |vorpx notes = Included in DGVoodoo2 Default Profile.<br><code>Note:</code> Profile may not work with the latest wrapper, in case of issues please report to the [https://www.vorpx.com/forums/forum/technical-support/ vorpx forum]. | ||
+ | |htc vive = | ||
+ | |htc vive notes = | ||
+ | |oculus rift = | ||
+ | |oculus rift notes = | ||
+ | |osvr = | ||
+ | |osvr notes = | ||
+ | |windows mixed reality = | ||
+ | |windows mixed reality notes = | ||
+ | |keyboard-mouse = | ||
+ | |keyboard-mouse notes = | ||
+ | |3rd space gaming vest = | ||
+ | |3rd space gaming vest notes = | ||
+ | |novint falcon = | ||
+ | |novint falcon notes = | ||
+ | |trackir = | ||
+ | |trackir notes = | ||
+ | |tobii eye tracking = | ||
+ | |tobii eye tracking notes = | ||
+ | |play area seated = | ||
+ | |play area seated notes = | ||
+ | |play area standing = | ||
+ | |play area standing notes = | ||
+ | |play area room-scale = | ||
+ | |play area room-scale notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 516: | Line 613: | ||
===Crashes on launch=== | ===Crashes on launch=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=[[Microsoft Windows#Older games refuse to start on Windows 8 and later|Install DirectPlay] | + | {{Fixbox|description=[[Microsoft Windows#Older games refuse to start on Windows 8 and later|Install DirectPlay]]|ref={{cn|date=May 2018}}|fix= |
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
===Sound issues=== | ===Sound issues=== | ||
If there is either no sound or voices or music cut in and out the following fixes may solve the problem. | If there is either no sound or voices or music cut in and out the following fixes may solve the problem. | ||
− | *Most sound issues can be traced to problems with the Fraunhofer IIS MPEG Layer-3 Codec. Uninstalling and reinstalling this codec as described on Microsoft's [https://support.microsoft.com/kb/814549 website] can fix the problem. Other people have had success in both Windows 98 and Vista 32-bit by copying the l3codeca.acm file from <code> {{p|windir}}\system32\</code> to <code>{{p|game}}\EXE\</code> and rename it to <code>l3codecp.acm</code>.<ref>http://www.pcreview.co.uk/forums/freelancer-sound-problem-t511183.html</ref> | + | *Most sound issues can be traced to problems with the Fraunhofer IIS MPEG Layer-3 Codec. Uninstalling and reinstalling this codec as described on Microsoft's [https://support.microsoft.com/kb/814549 website] can fix the problem. Other people have had success in both Windows 98 and Vista 32-bit by copying the l3codeca.acm file from <code> {{p|windir}}\system32\</code> to <code>{{p|game}}\EXE\</code> and rename it to <code>l3codecp.acm</code>.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.pcreview.co.uk/forums/freelancer-sound-problem-t511183.html|title=pcreview.co.uk|date=May 2023}}</ref> |
*Another possible fix is disabling 3-D sound in the options menu. | *Another possible fix is disabling 3-D sound in the options menu. | ||
Line 530: | Line 627: | ||
==="Freelancer Fatal Error: Freelancer did not detect a 3D capable video card in your system" error=== | ==="Freelancer Fatal Error: Freelancer did not detect a 3D capable video card in your system" error=== | ||
− | Follow the [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]] steps to force the correct resolution.<ref> | + | Follow the [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]] steps to force the correct resolution.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/freelancer/comments/463iyd/3d_card_issues_with_nvidia/|title=3D Card issues with nVidia : freelancer|date=May 2023}}</ref> |
==Other information== | ==Other information== | ||
===API=== | ===API=== | ||
{{API | {{API | ||
− | |direct3d versions = | + | |direct3d versions = 8 |
|direct3d notes = | |direct3d notes = | ||
|directdraw versions = | |directdraw versions = | ||
Line 555: | Line 652: | ||
|shader model versions = | |shader model versions = | ||
|shader model notes = | |shader model notes = | ||
− | |64-bit executable | + | |windows 32-bit exe = true |
− | |64-bit executable notes= | + | |windows 64-bit exe = false |
+ | |windows arm app = unknown | ||
+ | |windows exe notes = | ||
+ | |macos intel 32-bit app = | ||
+ | |macos intel 64-bit app = | ||
+ | |macos arm app = unknown | ||
+ | |macos app notes = | ||
+ | |linux 32-bit executable= | ||
+ | |linux 64-bit executable= | ||
+ | |linux arm app = unknown | ||
+ | |linux executable notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 563: | Line 670: | ||
|OSfamily = Windows | |OSfamily = Windows | ||
− | |minOS = | + | |minOS = 98SE, ME, 2000, XP |
|minCPU = 600 MHz | |minCPU = 600 MHz | ||
|minRAM = 128 MB | |minRAM = 128 MB | ||
− | |minHD = | + | |minHD = 1.3 GB |
|minVRAM = 16 MB | |minVRAM = 16 MB | ||
+ | |minDX = 9 | ||
+ | |minaudio = DirectX 9 compatible | ||
+ | |minother = 4X CD-ROM/DVD-ROM<bn>56Kbps modem for online multiplayer | ||
+ | |||
+ | |recCPU = 1 GHz | ||
+ | |recRAM = 256 MB | ||
+ | |recVRAM = 32 MB | ||
+ | |recother = 8X CD-ROM/DVD-ROM | ||
}} | }} | ||
+ | {{--}}Windows NT and 95 are not supported | ||
{{References}} | {{References}} |
Latest revision as of 15:16, 1 March 2024
Developers | |
---|---|
Digital Anvil | |
Publishers | |
Microsoft Game Studios | |
Release dates | |
Windows | March 4, 2003 |
Reception | |
Metacritic | 85 |
Taxonomy | |
Monetization | One-time game purchase |
Modes | Singleplayer, Multiplayer |
Pacing | Real-time |
Perspectives | First-person, Third-person |
Controls | Direct control |
Genres | Action, Open world, Simulation |
Vehicles | Space flight |
Art styles | Stylized |
Themes | Sci-fi, Space |
Warnings
- SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see Availability for affected versions).
Freelancer is a singleplayer/multiplayer open world space simulation game where the player flies around in spacecraft as a freelancer engaging in bounty hunting, piracy, trading, or all three at once. The world takes place in the Sirius Sector which spans across 48 star systems containing planets, space stations, and NPCs to interact with. Singleplayer puts the player in the shoes of Edison Trent who goes through a multitude of missions to solve a sector wide conspiracy he is unintentionally dragged into. Multiplayer skips the storyline and immediately unlocks all of the Sirius Sector for the player to explore where they can cooperate with or oppose other players. It was created by Digital Anvil and is a chronological successor to the game StarLancer.
Freelancer was first officially announced in late 1997[1] with a release date sometime in the fall of 2000.[2] Due to delays the project suffered and the need for more capital,[3] Freelancer wouldn't officially release until March 4, 2003[4] under the guidance of Microsoft Game Studios who bought Digital Anvil at the end of 2000.[5] After release, Digital Anvil's one and only update to the game was the official v1.1 patch released on June 6, 2003 to fix server stability and correct cheating exploits.[6]
Microsoft officially stopped supporting the game on April 8, 2008 which included the shutdown of the global list server, a dedicated service that provided a listing of available multiplayer servers and a means for players to connect to them.[7] However, due to the efforts of the community, a workaround was created to replace the now defunct Microsoft global list server, enabling current and future players the ability to use the in-game multiplayer connection manager.[8] Even with the lack of official support from Microsoft, the Freelancer community continues to maintain a sizeable presence on The Starport web forum, multiple Discord servers, game servers, and modding teams.
General information
- The Starport - The main Freelancer community web forum
- Freelancer Galactic Community - The main Freelancer community Discord server
- Freelancer Wiki
Availability
- SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see above for affected versions).
- Freelancer is currently unavailable as a digital release.
Essential improvements
Patches
- Update v1.1 is an official patch that primarily affects server stability for multi-player and is not necessary for single player. It does not address any graphics or sound issues mentioned below.
- Jason's Freelancer Patch v1.25 is a community made patch that provides many improvements, some new features, and widescreen support while maintaining compatibility with vanilla servers.
Modifications
- Freelancer: HD Edition is a mod that aims to improve every aspect of Freelancer while keeping the look and feel as close to vanilla as possible. Includes both the official patch, community patch, and widescreen fixes. Singleplayer and multiplayer, vanilla server compatible. Unknown compatibility with current mods.
- Discovery Freelancer expands on the original Freelancer storyline by rebalancing the game to, as close as possible, suit a Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing experience, adding many new technical features and game content, as well as developments in existing story arcs and lore. Multiplayer only, not compatible with other mods.
- Crossfire is one of the largest and most complex Freelancer modification available. It builds and extends the Freelancer universe in both gameplay and story while pushing the boundaries of what's possible through modding the game. Singleplayer and Multiplayer, not compatible with other mods.
- Freelancer: The Nomad Legacy is a mod that is set in an alterate universe to the base game with a new story to tell. It aims to push the technological boundaries of what the game engine can do. Releasing, work in progress.
- LibreLancer is a cross-platform, open source game engine re-implementing the 2003 space trading and combat game Freelancer. Releasing, work in progress.
Utilities
- Freelancer Mod Manager v1.5 is a program that simplifies installing and managing mods for the game. Mods compatible with this program have file extension
*.flmod
. - FLStat parses the game files to build a database to show stats on bases, factions, weapons, and ships all within a clean and easy to use GUI.
- Freelancer Companion is a tool that helps players quickly find the best profitable and shortest trade routes, showing them on the map with precise timing.
Game data
Configuration file(s) location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\Freelancer\PerfOptions.ini <path-to-game>\DATA\[Note 2] |
Save game data location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\Freelancer\Accts |
Video
Graphics feature | State | WSGF | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Widescreen resolution | See Widescreen resolution. | ||
Multi-monitor | |||
Ultra-widescreen | |||
4K Ultra HD | |||
Field of view (FOV) | See Widescreen resolution. | ||
Windowed | Launch the game with -win parameter. |
||
Borderless fullscreen windowed | Launch the game with -win parameter, then use Borderless Gaming. |
||
Anisotropic filtering (AF) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
Anti-aliasing (AA) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
High-fidelity upscaling | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
Vertical sync (Vsync) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
60 FPS and 120+ FPS | |||
High dynamic range display (HDR) |
Widescreen resolution
If you want to play Freelancer in widescreen you'll either have to edit several INI files or use a third party mod or patch. Below are instructions for installing Jason's Freelancer Patch as well as manual ini edits if you'd rather go that route.
Jason's Freelancer Patch[citation needed] |
---|
If you only plan on playing singleplayer Jasons Freelancer patch is a good option. You'll only need to download a file, put it in the right place and make a small edit to another file and you will have the best widescreen support you can get in Freelancer. If you plan on playing any multiplayer it is recommended that you do not use this option as it might be detected as cheating. Instead you should go for the INI editing option described further down. Do note that some of the servers that are still around use special mods, some of these mods include their own widescreen support.
You're done. Your install of Freelancer now supports widescreen resolutions. Start the game and select one in the options menu. Be sure to restart the game after changing from a 4:3 resolution to a Widescreen. |
Edit Ini files[11] |
---|
[WinCamera] fovx = 68.88 [CockpitCamera] fovx = 70 znear = 2.000000 [ChaseCamera] fovx = 70 [DeathCamera] fovx = 70 If you have a 16:10 screen use the following instead: [WinCamera] fovx = 63.50 [CockpitCamera] fovx = 70 znear = 2.000000 [ChaseCamera] fovx = 70 [DeathCamera] fovx = 70
[trueType] nickname = ButtonText font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.038500 [trueType] nickname = PageHeader font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.041000 [trueType] nickname = SubHeader font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.034500 [trueType] nickname = ItemName font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.021000 [trueType] nickname = ListText font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.026000 [trueType] nickname = ToolTip font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.026000 [trueType] nickname = Rollover font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.022000 [trueType] nickname = HudSmall font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.026000 [trueType] nickname = MissionObjective font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.056000 [trueType] nickname = Normal font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.031000 [trueType] nickname = NewsMission font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.026000 [trueType] nickname = NewsTicker font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.041000 [trueType] nickname = PlayerName font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.021000 [trueType] nickname = TradePlayerName font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.021000 [trueType] nickname = DebugText font = FixedSys fixed_height = 0.026000 [trueType] nickname = ConfirmPlayerText font = Arial Unicode MS fixed_height = 0.036000 [trueType] nickname = ConfirmText font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.036000 [trueType] nickname = NavMap1600 font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.015000 [trueType] nickname = NavMap1024 font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.020000 [trueType] nickname = NavMap1280 font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.01900 [trueType] nickname = NavMap800 font = Agency FB fixed_height = 0.02300
[trueType] font = 0, Arial Unicode MS, 18 font = 1, Agency FB, 26 font = 2, Arial Unicode MS, 22 font = 3, Agency FB, 24 font = 4, Agency FB, 96 font = 5, Agency FB, 20 font = 6, Agency FB, 30 font = 7, Agency FB, 18 [Style] name = STYLE_CONSOLE font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 255, 255, 255 [Style] name = STYLE_DIALOG font = 1 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_DIALOG_SMALL font = 5 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_BUTTON font = 6 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_LOCTABLE font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_LOCTABLE_SELECT font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 245, 234, 82 [Style] name = STYLE_LOCTABLE_INACTIVE font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 182, 182, 182 [Style] name = STYLE_SMALL_HEADER font = 5 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_SMALL_HEADER_ACTIVE font = 5 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 245, 234, 82 [Style] name = STYLE_SUBSUBTITLE font = 1 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_TITLE font = 3 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 justify = center [Style] name = STYLE_ERROR font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 191, 29, 29 [Style] name = STYLE_NN_AGENCY font = 5 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 135, 195, 224 [Style] name = STYLE_PRIVATE font = 0 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 59, 191, 29 [Style] name = STYLE_CONSOLE_SENDER font = 2 bold = false italic = false underline = false color = 0, 255, 0
Notes
|
Input
Keyboard and mouse | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Remapping | ||
Mouse acceleration | ||
Mouse sensitivity | ||
Mouse input in menus | ||
Mouse Y-axis inversion | ||
Controller | ||
Controller support |
Audio
Audio feature | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Separate volume controls | ||
Surround sound | With 3D sound option on. | |
Subtitles | ||
Closed captions | ||
Mute on focus lost | ||
Royalty free audio |
Localizations
Language | UI | Audio | Sub | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
English | ||||
German | Sound, Text | |||
Russian | Fan translation by users forum «Elite-Games.ru» | |||
Spanish | Fan translation by Clan Dlan, download. Cinematic subtitles (authors: L@Zar0, darkpadawan) Subtitles mod. |
Network
Multiplayer types
Type | Native | Players | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|
LAN play | 128 | Incompatible with Ipv6.[12] | ||
Online play | 128 | Official servers are offline; use replacement Freelancer listserver. |
Connection types
Ports
Protocol | Port(s) and/or port range(s) |
---|---|
UDP | 2302 |
- Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.
VR support
3D modes | State | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|
vorpX | G3D Included in DGVoodoo2 Default Profile. Note: Profile may not work with the latest wrapper, in case of issues please report to the vorpx forum. |
Issues unresolved
Compatibility problems on modern operating systems
Two primary issues when running on modern systems:
- Graphics issues resulting in a black screen or general crashes.[citation needed]
- There can be sound issues causing voices or music to temporarily be muted.[citation needed]
Issues fixed
- It is sometimes necessary to start a new game, delete all your saved games or reinstall Freelancer in order for the following fixes to be successful.
Crashes on launch
Install DirectPlay[citation needed] |
---|
Sound issues
If there is either no sound or voices or music cut in and out the following fixes may solve the problem.
- Most sound issues can be traced to problems with the Fraunhofer IIS MPEG Layer-3 Codec. Uninstalling and reinstalling this codec as described on Microsoft's website can fix the problem. Other people have had success in both Windows 98 and Vista 32-bit by copying the l3codeca.acm file from
%WINDIR%\system32\
to<path-to-game>\EXE\
and rename it tol3codecp.acm
.[13]
- Another possible fix is disabling 3-D sound in the options menu.
Video Issues
Microsoft lists several solutions for video issues.
"Freelancer Fatal Error: Freelancer did not detect a 3D capable video card in your system" error
Follow the Widescreen resolution steps to force the correct resolution.[14]
Other information
API
Technical specs | Supported | Notes |
---|---|---|
Direct3D | 8 |
Executable | 32-bit | 64-bit | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Windows |
System requirements
Windows | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum | Recommended | |
Operating system (OS) | 98SE, ME, 2000, XP | |
Processor (CPU) | 600 MHz | 1 GHz |
System memory (RAM) | 128 MB | 256 MB |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 1.3 GB | |
Video card (GPU) | 16 MB of VRAM DirectX 9 compatible | 32 MB of VRAM |
Sound (audio device) | DirectX 9 compatible | |
Other | 4X CD-ROM/DVD-ROM<bn>56Kbps modem for online multiplayer | 8X CD-ROM/DVD-ROM |
- Windows NT and 95 are not supported
Notes
- ↑ SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows 10[9] or Windows 11 and is disabled by default on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 when the KB3086255 update is installed.[10]
- ↑ When running this game without elevated privileges (Run as administrator option), write operations against a location below
%PROGRAMFILES%
,%PROGRAMDATA%
, or%WINDIR%
might be redirected to%LOCALAPPDATA%\VirtualStore
on Windows Vista and later (more details).
References
- ↑ The Digital Desperado - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Chris Roberts Back In the Game - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ PC Preview: Freelancer - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Microsoft Ships Freelancer - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Digital Anvil Interview - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Freelancer v1.1 Patch - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Microsoft Product Lifecycle - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Global Server Workaround v1.0 - last accessed on 2022-04-02
- ↑ Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2017-01-16
- ↑ Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16
- ↑ craigmayhew.com - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ How to fix Freelancer not connecting to a localhost server? - Gaming Stack Exchange
- ↑ pcreview.co.uk - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ 3D Card issues with nVidia : freelancer - last accessed on May 2023