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Difference between revisions of "Darklands"

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(→‎Availability: Added Humble Store, removed GOG (no longer available))
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|cover        = Darklands.jpg
 
|cover        = Darklands.jpg
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
{{Infobox game/row/developer|MicroProse}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|MPS Labs}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|MicroProse|Retail}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Atari|Original digital}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Retroism|Current digital}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Nightdive Studios|Current digital}}
 
|engines      =  
 
|engines      =  
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|1992}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|1992}}
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|October 13, 2011|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>[https://www.gog.com/news/new_release_darklands New release: Darklands ● GOG.com]</ref>}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|October 13, 2011|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/news/new_release_darklands|title=New release: Darklands ● GOG.com|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>}}
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|May 9, 2013|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>[https://www.gog.com/news/mac_game_update_10_new_additions Mac Game Update: 10 New Classic Additions ● GOG.com]</ref>}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|May 9, 2013|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/news/mac_game_update_10_new_additions|title=Mac Game Update: 10 New Classic Additions ● GOG.com|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>}}
{{Infobox game/row/date|Linux|July 24, 2014|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>[https://www.gog.com/forum/general/gogcom_now_supports_linux/page1 GOG.com Now Supports Linux! ● GOG.com]</ref>}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|Linux|July 24, 2014|wrapper=DOSBox|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/forum/general/gogcom_now_supports_linux/page1|title=GOG.com Now Supports Linux! ● GOG.com|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic| | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|OpenCritic| | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB| | }}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | Bird's-eye view }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | RPG, Sandbox}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Medieval, Fantasy, Europe }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | }}
 
|steam appid  = 327930
 
|steam appid  = 327930
 +
|steam appid side =
 
|gogcom id    = 1207658972
 
|gogcom id    = 1207658972
 +
|gogcom id side =
 +
|official site=
 +
|hltb        = 2238
 +
|lutris      =
 
|strategywiki =  
 
|strategywiki =  
 +
|mobygames    = 258
 
|wikipedia    = Darklands (video game)
 
|wikipedia    = Darklands (video game)
 
|winehq      =  
 
|winehq      =  
 
|license      = commercial
 
|license      = commercial
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Introduction
 +
|introduction      = '''''Darklands''''' is a singleplayer [[Glossary:RPG|role-playing game]] set in a fictional version of medieval Germany. The player can create a party of up to four characters and freely explore the world. A main quest exists, but does not necessarily have to be followed.
 +
 +
In cities and during encounters, the game is primarily played from a text-based interface where the party has many available options. Those usually factor in the characters' skill values and items. Travel is done on an overworld map of medieval Germany. During combat and in certain locations like dungeons, the game switches to an isometric view and uses a real-time with pause system for fighting and exploration.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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{{GOG.com links|1207658972|darklands}}
 
{{GOG.com links|1207658972|darklands}}
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/327930/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/327930/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
{{mm}} [http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/darklands/ Darklands Yahoo! group]
+
{{mm}} [https://groups.io/g/darklands/ Darklands groups.io discussion group]
 +
{{mm}} [http://www.darklands.net/index.shtml Website]
 +
{{mm}} [https://darklands.fandom.com/wiki/Darklands_Wiki Wiki]
 +
{{mm}} [https://cdn.cloudflare.steamstatic.com/steam/apps/327930/manuals/Manual.pdf Manual] and [https://www.mocagh.org/miscgame/darklands-hintbook.pdf clue book]
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
{{Availability/row| Retail | | unknown | Floppies or CD-ROM. Use [[DOSBox]] and install the [[#Patches|.07 Patch]]. | | DOS }}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Physical | Floppies or CD-ROM. Use [[DOSBox]] and install the [[#Patches|.07 Patch]]. | | DOS }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | darklands | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | darklands| Physical | Pre-packaged with [[DOSBox]]. | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 
{{Availability/row| Humble | darklands | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 
{{Availability/row| Humble | darklands | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
{{Availability/row| Steam | 327930 | Steam | Pre-packaged with [[DOSBox]].<ref>[https://steamdb.info/app/327930/config/ Darklands · AppID: 327930 · Steam Database]</ref> | | Windows, OS X, Linux}}
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 327930 | Steam, Physical | Pre-packaged with [[DOSBox]].<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamdb.info/app/327930/config/|title=Darklands · AppID: 327930 · Steam Database|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> | | Windows, OS X, Linux}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} All versions require the manual to answer alchemy symbol copy protection challenges (for digital versions refer to {{code|{{p|game}}\manual.pdf}}).<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Garrett|date=7 April 2021|comment=Alchemy symbol challenges are still present in versions sold digitally; as in the retail versions, giving the wrong answer exits the game. Tested with the latest GOG.com version; Steam also still has the protection according to the various Steam discussions posts about it.}}</ref> Just open the manual PDF and search it ({{key|CTRL}} + {{key|F}}) for the required keyword.
 +
 +
===Extra content in digital versions===
 +
Both the GOG and Steam versions include additional content besides the manual: namely the cluebook, a game map and the reference card. For GOG, those can be downloaded under Extras. For Steam, they can be found in the game folder under {{folder|{{p|game}}\Bonus Content}}.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/327930/discussions/0/1318836262664520512|title=Steam Community|date=May 2023}}</ref>
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===Patches===
 
===Patches===
The latest retail patch is [http://www.darklands.net/files/files.shtml .07 Patch]. Patches do not integrate the previous patches and must be installed in order. The GOG.com version already has this patch.
+
{{ii}} The latest retail patch is the [http://www.darklands.net/files/files.shtml .07 Patch]. Patches do not integrate the previous patches and must be installed in order. The GOG.com version already has this patch.
===Utilities===
 
{{ii}} [https://xa.yimg.com/df/darklands/_Darklands+all-in-one+Chart.xls?token=ppQnV7mOUZjGGqivVdynGafRxHALQN9Uo1g0YcDnSqbAZyaHrtf9W7lPH9h-tzTfKClZEmhgpNRtLC8DBfZL2bYnzBvxTBa2CpZXkl_iO6OeQjNpuSg70qv2M9fPfG_GFAk&type=download Darklands All-in-One Chart ] v1.0 by bongo64738. An Excel spreadsheet that includes an occupations progression table, city table, potion maker and saints lists. A detailed description can be found [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/darklands/conversations/topics/9657 here]
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/dlq-1.1.zip Darklands Quest Lister] v.1.1 by  Michael Petzold:  Enables you to generate a list of your current quests from a save file. Very useful as this is the only non-manual way to track such quests.
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkmap.zip Darklands Map Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to find towns from a clickable list. There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkmap.html live online version].
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dksaints.zip Darklands Saints Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to view details of saints from a clickable list. Also allows you to view which saints offer particular benefits (for example, travel by water). There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dksaints.html live online version].
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkalch.zip Darklands Alchemy Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to view details of potions from a clickable list, showing the required ingredients, quality, and risk involved. There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkalch.html live online version].
 
{{ii}} [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/darklands/files/Character%20Editor/ Character Editor ] v2.2 by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)":  Enables you to edit characters' stats and appearances.
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/converter.zip Darklands Monetary Converter] v1.1 by Jerry "Deth-B0y" Kelly:  Enables you to convert "complex" monetary amounts (expressed in Florins, Groschen and Peffenigs) to "simple" monetary amounts (expressed in Peffenigs only) and vice versa.
 
{{ii}} [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/darklands/files/World%20Regeneration%20Tool/ World Regeneration Tool ] by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)": Enables you to randomise and regenerate an existing world by rebuilding destroyed villages and other locations. Can also shuffle the world by altering the random seed used by the game to calculate item availability in various locations (saints, ingredients etc.). The seed also determines which villages and castles are good or evil.
 
{{ii}} [https://www80.zippyshare.com/v/UDgLCR1A/file.html City Tracker Spreadsheet ] v1.0 by Paul Moloney: An Excel spreadsheet containing a row for each city in Darklands, showing hardcoded values (such as map coordinates, quality of blacksmith, bowyer and so on) with empty fields to fill with values particular to your instance of the game (for example, saints, formulae and physician quality).
 
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/dled.zip Darklands Editor] v1.1 by Steven J. Cotellesse:  Enables you to edit characters' stats (older than the Character Editor by Dan Collins and not as fully featured)
 
{{ii}} [https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B41UiCNc9wZUeEMwc1RsUVpHRWs Saints selection spreadsheet] by vakarr: a fully sorted and searchable saints selection spreadsheet. It has optional filters for every characteristic or possible use. A Y/N column lets you find all the ones you have and pick the one best suited to your purpose or the one with the lowest requirements or the one with the closest saint's day.
 
{{ii}} [http://wendigo.online-siesta.com/darklands/ Darkland Explorations]: A site containing details on Darklands file formats and interactive maps.
 
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
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{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data/config|DOS|{{P|game}}\DARKLAND.CFG}}
 
{{Game data/config|DOS|{{P|game}}\DARKLAND.CFG}}
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{P|game}}\DARKLAND.CFG}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|}}
 
{{Game data/config|OS X|}}
 
{{Game data/config|OS X|}}
 
{{Game data/config|Linux|}}
 
{{Game data/config|Linux|}}
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{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data/saves|DOS|{{p|game}}\SAVES}}
 
{{Game data/saves|DOS|{{p|game}}\SAVES}}
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|game}}\SAVES}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|}}
 
{{Game data/saves|OS X|}}
 
{{Game data/saves|OS X|}}
 
{{Game data/saves|Linux|}}
 
{{Game data/saves|Linux|}}
Line 67: Line 96:
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
|discord               =  
+
|discord                   =  
|discord notes         =  
+
|discord notes             =  
|epic games store       =  
+
|epic games launcher       =  
|epic games store notes =  
+
|epic games launcher notes =  
|gog galaxy             = false
+
|gog galaxy               = false
|gog galaxy notes       =  
+
|gog galaxy notes         =  
|origin                 =  
+
|origin                   =  
|origin notes           =  
+
|origin notes             =  
|steam cloud           = false
+
|steam cloud               = false
|steam cloud notes     =  
+
|steam cloud notes         =  
|uplay                  =  
+
|ubisoft connect          =  
|uplay notes           =  
+
|ubisoft connect notes     =  
|xbox cloud             =  
+
|xbox cloud               =  
|xbox cloud notes       =  
+
|xbox cloud notes         =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
{{Video settings
+
{{Video
 
|wsgf link                  =  
 
|wsgf link                  =  
 
|widescreen wsgf award      =  
 
|widescreen wsgf award      =  
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|fov                        = n/a
 
|fov                        = n/a
 
|fov notes                  =  
 
|fov notes                  =  
|windowed                  = true
+
|windowed                  = false
|windowed notes            = Set in Graphic Mode Setup (GOG.com) or toggle with {{key|Alt|Enter}}.
+
|windowed notes            =  
 
|borderless windowed        = false
 
|borderless windowed        = false
 
|borderless windowed notes  =  
 
|borderless windowed notes  =  
Line 120: Line 149:
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Input settings==
+
==Input==
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = false
 
|key remap                = false
 
|key remap notes          =  
 
|key remap notes          =  
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|mouse sensitivity        = unknown
 
|mouse sensitivity        = unknown
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
|mouse menu                = unknown
+
|mouse menu                = true
 
|mouse menu notes          =  
 
|mouse menu notes          =  
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = unknown
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = unknown
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}}
 
}}
  
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
 
{{Image|Darklands SoundOptions.png|Sound options from game's config/installation utility}}
 
{{Image|Darklands SoundOptions.png|Sound options from game's config/installation utility}}
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
 
|separate volume          = false
 
|separate volume          = false
 
|separate volume notes    =  
 
|separate volume notes    =  
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|eax support              =  
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 +
|red book cd audio        =
 +
|red book cd audio notes  =
 +
|general midi audio        = false
 +
|general midi audio notes  = Roland MT-32-compatible MIDI only.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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{{ii}} Use this fix if the audio sounds unusual (e.g. random sounds rather than clashing weapons during combat).
 
{{ii}} Use this fix if the audio sounds unusual (e.g. random sounds rather than clashing weapons during combat).
  
{{Fixbox|description=Rename sound files|ref=<ref>[https://www.gog.com/forum/darklands/problems_with_sound Problems with sound, page 1 - Forum - GOG.com]</ref>|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Rename sound files|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/forum/darklands/problems_with_sound|title=Problems with sound, page 1 - Forum - GOG.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
# Rename <code>PSOUND.DLB</code> to <code>PSOUND.DLB.old</code>
+
# Rename {{file|PSOUND.DLB}} to {{file|PSOUND.DLB.old}}.
# Rename <code>PSOUND.DLC</code> to <code>PSOUND.DLC.old</code>
+
# Rename {{file|PSOUND.DLC}} to {{file|PSOUND.DLC.old}}.
# Rename <code>PSOUND.DB</code> to <code>PSOUND.DLB</code>
+
# Rename {{file|PSOUND.DB}} to {{file|PSOUND.DLB}}.
# Rename <code>PSOUND.DC</code> to <code>PSOUND.DLC</code>
+
# Rename {{file|PSOUND.DC}} to {{file|PSOUND.DLC}}.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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|windows 32-bit exe    = unknown
 
|windows 32-bit exe    = unknown
 
|windows 64-bit exe    = unknown
 
|windows 64-bit exe    = unknown
 +
|windows arm app        = false
 
|windows exe notes      =  
 
|windows exe notes      =  
|macos 32-bit app       = unknown
+
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
|macos 64-bit app       = unknown
+
|macos intel 32-bit app = unknown
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = unknown
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|linux 32-bit executable= unknown
 
|linux 32-bit executable= unknown
 
|linux 64-bit executable= unknown
 
|linux 64-bit executable= unknown
 +
|linux arm app          = false
 
|linux executable notes =  
 
|linux executable notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
Line 269: Line 306:
 
{{Fixbox|description=Rename and overwrite files|ref=<ref>Darklands README.TXT, "SIMULTANEOUS ROLAND & SOUND BLASTER SUPPORT"</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Rename and overwrite files|ref=<ref>Darklands README.TXT, "SIMULTANEOUS ROLAND & SOUND BLASTER SUPPORT"</ref>|fix=
 
# Run DOSBox and mount the game as normal
 
# Run DOSBox and mount the game as normal
# Go to <code>{{P|game}}</code>.
+
# Go to {{folder|{{P|game}}}}.
 
# Run the following commands:
 
# Run the following commands:
 
<code>COPY PSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DC<br/>COPY PSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DB<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLC ASOUND.DC<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLB ASOUND.DB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DLB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC ASOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB ASOUND.DLB</code>
 
<code>COPY PSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DC<br/>COPY PSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DB<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLC ASOUND.DC<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLB ASOUND.DB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DLB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC ASOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB ASOUND.DLB</code>
# Run <code>INSTALL.EXE</code>
+
# Run {{file|INSTALL.EXE}}.
 
# Selected <code>Reconfigure hardware option(s)</code>
 
# Selected <code>Reconfigure hardware option(s)</code>
 
# Ensure a non-Roland soundcard is selected (such as the SoundBlaster).
 
# Ensure a non-Roland soundcard is selected (such as the SoundBlaster).
# Save and exit <code>INSTALL.EXE</code>
+
# Save and exit {{file|INSTALL.EXE}}.
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
{{ii}} Roland MT-32 music will not be correct unless you configure either a real MT-32 or an MT-32 emulator to run in DOSBox.
+
{{ii}} Roland MT-32 music will not be correct unless either a real MT-32 or an MT-32 emulator is configured to run in DOSBox.
 
{{ii}} To restore normal functionality, run the following commands in DOSBox:
 
{{ii}} To restore normal functionality, run the following commands in DOSBox:
<code>COPY PSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DC<br/>COPY PSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DB<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLC ASOUND.DC<br/>COPY ASOUND.DLB ASOUND.DB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DLB<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLC ASOUND.DLC<br/>COPY RSOUND.DLB ASOUND.DLB
+
<code>COPY PSOUND.DC PSOUND.DLC<br/>COPY PSOUND.DB PSOUND.DLB<br/>COPY ASOUND.DC ASOUND.DLC<br/>COPY ASOUND.DB ASOUND.DLB
 
</code>
 
</code>
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Utilities===
 +
{{Cleanup|section}}
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/dlq-1.1.zip Darklands Quest Lister] v.1.1 by  Michael Petzold:  Enables you to generate a list of your current quests from a save file. Very useful as this is the only non-manual way to track such quests. Just copy the ''dlqs.exe'' into the same game folder where the DARKLAND.EXE already is.
 +
{{ii}} [https://github.com/ricardopinedathen/darklands-quest DarkLand Quest]: DarkLand Quest allows you to view quests for DarkLands and see an interactive map that tracks all your quests. Developed by Alberto Pineda, maintained by Ricardo Pineda.
 +
{{ii}} [https://groups.io/g/darklands/files/_Darklands%20all-in-one%20Chart.xls Darklands All-in-One Chart ] v1.0 by bongo64738. An Excel spreadsheet that includes an occupations progression table, city table, potion maker and saints lists. A detailed description can be found [https://groups.io/g/darklands/message/9507?p=,,,20,0,0,0::Created,,Darklands+all-in-one+Chart,20,2,0,55085763 here]
 +
{{ii}} [https://groups.io/g/darklands/files/_Files_archived_from_Yahoo%21_group/Darklands%20City%20Tracker%20%28Excel%29/darklands_cities.xlsx City Tracker Spreadsheet ] v1.0 by Paul Moloney: An Excel spreadsheet containing a row for each city in Darklands, showing hardcoded values (such as map coordinates, quality of blacksmith, bowyer and so on) with empty fields to fill with values particular to your instance of the game (for example, saints, formulae and physician quality).
 +
{{ii}} [https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B41UiCNc9wZUeEMwc1RsUVpHRWs Saints selection spreadsheet] by vakarr: a fully sorted and searchable saints selection spreadsheet. It has optional filters for every characteristic or possible use. A Y/N column lets you find all the ones you have and pick the one best suited to your purpose or the one with the lowest requirements or the one with the closest saint's day.
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkmap.zip Darklands Map Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to find towns from a clickable list. There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkmap.html live online version].
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dksaints.zip Darklands Saints Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to view details of saints from a clickable list. Also allows you to view which saints offer particular benefits (for example, travel by water). There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dksaints.html live online version].
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkalch.zip Darklands Alchemy Tool] by Savcho Savchev:  Flash based; enables you to view details of potions from a clickable list, showing the required ingredients, quality, and risk involved. There is also a [http://www.darklands.net/tools/dkalch.html live online version].
 +
{{ii}} [https://groups.io/g/darklands/files/_Files_archived_from_Yahoo%21_group/Character%20Editor Character Editor ] v2.2 by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)":  Enables you to edit characters' stats and appearances.
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/dled.zip Darklands Editor] v1.1 by Steven J. Cotellesse:  Enables you to edit characters' stats (older than the Character Editor by Dan Collins and not as fully featured)
 +
{{ii}} [http://www.darklands.net/files/converter.zip Darklands Monetary Converter] v1.1 by Jerry "Deth-B0y" Kelly:  Enables you to convert "complex" monetary amounts (expressed in Florins, Groschen and Peffenigs) to "simple" monetary amounts (expressed in Peffenigs only) and vice versa.
 +
{{ii}} [https://groups.io/g/darklands/files/_Files_archived_from_Yahoo%21_group/World%20Regeneration%20Tool/DarklandsWorldRegen_1_1.zip World Regeneration Tool ] by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)": Enables you to randomise and regenerate an existing world by rebuilding destroyed villages and other locations. Can also shuffle the world by altering the random seed used by the game to calculate item availability in various locations (saints, ingredients etc.). The seed also determines which villages and castles are good or evil.
 +
{{ii}} [http://wendigo.online-siesta.com/darklands/ Darkland Explorations]: A site containing details on Darklands file formats and interactive maps.
 +
{{ii}} [https://wendigo.online-siesta.com/darklands/chargen/ Wendigo's Web-based Character Generation app]: A web-based tool which simulated the Darklands character generation function enabling you to map and plan characters out.
 +
 +
Even more helpful files can be found [http://www.darklands.net/files/files.shtml here.]
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
Line 309: Line 365:
 
|recCPU  =  
 
|recCPU  =  
 
|recRAM  = 1 GB
 
|recRAM  = 1 GB
|recHD    = 82 MB
+
|recHD    =  
 
|recGPU  =  
 
|recGPU  =  
 
|recDX    = 9
 
|recDX    = 9

Latest revision as of 23:12, 25 December 2023

Darklands
Darklands cover
Developers
MPS Labs
Publishers
Retail MicroProse
Original digital Atari
Current digital Retroism
Current digital Nightdive Studios
Release dates
DOS 1992
Windows (DOSBox) October 13, 2011[1]
macOS (OS X) (DOSBox) May 9, 2013[2]
Linux (DOSBox) July 24, 2014[3]
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase
Modes Singleplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives Bird's-eye view
Genres RPG, Sandbox
Themes Medieval, Fantasy, Europe
Darklands on HowLongToBeat
Darklands on MobyGames
Darklands on Wikipedia

Darklands is a singleplayer role-playing game set in a fictional version of medieval Germany. The player can create a party of up to four characters and freely explore the world. A main quest exists, but does not necessarily have to be followed.

In cities and during encounters, the game is primarily played from a text-based interface where the party has many available options. Those usually factor in the characters' skill values and items. Travel is done on an overworld map of medieval Germany. During combat and in certain locations like dungeons, the game switches to an isometric view and uses a real-time with pause system for fighting and exploration.

General information

GOG.com Community Discussions
GOG.com Support Page
Steam Community Discussions
Darklands groups.io discussion group
Website
Wiki
Manual and clue book

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Prompts for answers from manual, code wheel, etc.
Floppies or CD-ROM. Use DOSBox and install the .07 Patch.
DOS
GamersGate
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
GOG.com
Prompts for answers from manual, code wheel, etc.
Pre-packaged with DOSBox.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
Humble Store
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
Steam
Icon overlay.png
Prompts for answers from manual, code wheel, etc.
Pre-packaged with DOSBox.[4]
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
All versions require the manual to answer alchemy symbol copy protection challenges (for digital versions refer to <path-to-game>\manual.pdf).[5] Just open the manual PDF and search it (Ctrl + F) for the required keyword.

Extra content in digital versions

Both the GOG and Steam versions include additional content besides the manual: namely the cluebook, a game map and the reference card. For GOG, those can be downloaded under Extras. For Steam, they can be found in the game folder under <path-to-game>\Bonus Content.[6]

Essential improvements

Patches

The latest retail patch is the .07 Patch. Patches do not integrate the previous patches and must be installed in order. The GOG.com version already has this patch.

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
DOS <path-to-game>\DARKLAND.CFG
Windows <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]
macOS (OS X) <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]
Linux <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]
It's unknown whether this game follows the XDG Base Directory Specification on Linux. Please fill in this information.

Save game data location

System Location
DOS <path-to-game>\SAVES
Windows <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]
macOS (OS X) <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]
Linux <path-to-game> (mounted in DOSBox)[Note 1]

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
GOG Galaxy
Steam Cloud

Video

Graphics feature State Notes
Widescreen resolution
320x200 only.
Multi-monitor
Ultra-widescreen
4K Ultra HD
Field of view (FOV)
Windowed
For DOSBox toggle with Alt+ Enter (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
Borderless fullscreen windowed
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Vertical sync (Vsync)
For DOSBox use an unofficial build (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
60 FPS
120+ FPS

Input

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
For DOSBox use the DOSBox Mapper (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
Mouse acceleration
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
For DOSBox use the DOSBox Mapper (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
Controller types

Audio

Sound options from game's config/installation utility
Sound options from game's config/installation utility

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
For DOSBox change the priority background value in the DOSBox configuration file.
General MIDI audio
Roland MT-32-compatible MIDI only.

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
German

Issues fixed

Sound problems (GOG.com)

Use this fix if the audio sounds unusual (e.g. random sounds rather than clashing weapons during combat).
Rename sound files[7]
  1. Rename PSOUND.DLB to PSOUND.DLB.old.
  2. Rename PSOUND.DLC to PSOUND.DLC.old.
  3. Rename PSOUND.DB to PSOUND.DLB.
  4. Rename PSOUND.DC to PSOUND.DLC.

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
DOS video modes VGA

Simultaneous MT-32 music and SoundBlaster digital speech

The game can be modified to support the MT-32 and SoundBlaster simultaneously.
Rename and overwrite files[8]
  1. Run DOSBox and mount the game as normal
  2. Go to <path-to-game>.
  3. Run the following commands:

COPY PSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DC
COPY PSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DB
COPY ASOUND.DLC ASOUND.DC
COPY ASOUND.DLB ASOUND.DB
COPY RSOUND.DLC PSOUND.DLC
COPY RSOUND.DLB PSOUND.DLB
COPY RSOUND.DLC ASOUND.DLC
COPY RSOUND.DLB ASOUND.DLB

  1. Run INSTALL.EXE.
  2. Selected Reconfigure hardware option(s)
  3. Ensure a non-Roland soundcard is selected (such as the SoundBlaster).
  4. Save and exit INSTALL.EXE.

Notes

Roland MT-32 music will not be correct unless either a real MT-32 or an MT-32 emulator is configured to run in DOSBox.
To restore normal functionality, run the following commands in DOSBox:

COPY PSOUND.DC PSOUND.DLC
COPY PSOUND.DB PSOUND.DLB
COPY ASOUND.DC ASOUND.DLC
COPY ASOUND.DB ASOUND.DLB

Utilities

This section may require cleanup to meet basic quality standards. You can help by modifying the article. The discussion page may contain useful suggestions.
Darklands Quest Lister v.1.1 by Michael Petzold: Enables you to generate a list of your current quests from a save file. Very useful as this is the only non-manual way to track such quests. Just copy the dlqs.exe into the same game folder where the DARKLAND.EXE already is.
DarkLand Quest: DarkLand Quest allows you to view quests for DarkLands and see an interactive map that tracks all your quests. Developed by Alberto Pineda, maintained by Ricardo Pineda.
Darklands All-in-One Chart v1.0 by bongo64738. An Excel spreadsheet that includes an occupations progression table, city table, potion maker and saints lists. A detailed description can be found here
City Tracker Spreadsheet v1.0 by Paul Moloney: An Excel spreadsheet containing a row for each city in Darklands, showing hardcoded values (such as map coordinates, quality of blacksmith, bowyer and so on) with empty fields to fill with values particular to your instance of the game (for example, saints, formulae and physician quality).
Saints selection spreadsheet by vakarr: a fully sorted and searchable saints selection spreadsheet. It has optional filters for every characteristic or possible use. A Y/N column lets you find all the ones you have and pick the one best suited to your purpose or the one with the lowest requirements or the one with the closest saint's day.
Darklands Map Tool by Savcho Savchev: Flash based; enables you to find towns from a clickable list. There is also a live online version.
Darklands Saints Tool by Savcho Savchev: Flash based; enables you to view details of saints from a clickable list. Also allows you to view which saints offer particular benefits (for example, travel by water). There is also a live online version.
Darklands Alchemy Tool by Savcho Savchev: Flash based; enables you to view details of potions from a clickable list, showing the required ingredients, quality, and risk involved. There is also a live online version.
Character Editor v2.2 by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)": Enables you to edit characters' stats and appearances.
Darklands Editor v1.1 by Steven J. Cotellesse: Enables you to edit characters' stats (older than the Character Editor by Dan Collins and not as fully featured)
Darklands Monetary Converter v1.1 by Jerry "Deth-B0y" Kelly: Enables you to convert "complex" monetary amounts (expressed in Florins, Groschen and Peffenigs) to "simple" monetary amounts (expressed in Peffenigs only) and vice versa.
World Regeneration Tool by Dan Collins ("jugglindan)": Enables you to randomise and regenerate an existing world by rebuilding destroyed villages and other locations. Can also shuffle the world by altering the random seed used by the game to calculate item availability in various locations (saints, ingredients etc.). The seed also determines which villages and castles are good or evil.
Darkland Explorations: A site containing details on Darklands file formats and interactive maps.
Wendigo's Web-based Character Generation app: A web-based tool which simulated the Darklands character generation function enabling you to map and plan characters out.

Even more helpful files can be found here.

System requirements

DOS
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 5.0
Processor (CPU) IBM 386 or compatible
System memory (RAM) 2 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 22 MB
Video card (GPU) VGA graphics
Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) XP, Vista
Processor (CPU) 1.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 512 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 82 MB
Video card (GPU) DirectX 7 compatible
macOS (OS X)
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 10.6.8 (Snow Leopard) or later
Processor (CPU) Intel Core 2 Duo 2 GHz+
System memory (RAM) 1 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD)
Video card (GPU) 64 MB of VRAM


Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 File/folder structure within the installation folder reflects the path(s) listed for DOS game data.

References

  1. New release: Darklands ● GOG.com - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  2. Mac Game Update: 10 New Classic Additions ● GOG.com - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  3. GOG.com Now Supports Linux! ● GOG.com - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  4. Darklands · AppID: 327930 · Steam Database - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  5. Verified by User:Garrett on 7 April 2021
    Alchemy symbol challenges are still present in versions sold digitally; as in the retail versions, giving the wrong answer exits the game. Tested with the latest GOG.com version; Steam also still has the protection according to the various Steam discussions posts about it.
  6. Steam Community - last accessed on May 2023
  7. Problems with sound, page 1 - Forum - GOG.com - last accessed on May 2023
  8. Darklands README.TXT, "SIMULTANEOUS ROLAND & SOUND BLASTER SUPPORT"