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Difference between revisions of "MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
m (updated template usage)
(32 intermediate revisions by 10 users not shown)
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{{Infobox game
 
{{Infobox game
−
|cover        = MechWarrior 2 - 31st Century Combat cover.jpg
+
|cover        = MechWarrior 2 (PC Cover).png
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Activision}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Activision}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Activision}}
 
|engines      =  
 
|engines      =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/engine|MechWarrior 2}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/engine|MechWarrior 2}}
Line 11: Line 12:
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Mac OS|July 1, 1996}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Mac OS|July 1, 1996}}
 
|taxonomy    =
 
|taxonomy    =
−
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | Expansion pack }}
+
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack }}
−
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
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{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Vehicle combat }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Vehicle combat }}
−
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | Robot }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | Robot }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Stylized }}
 
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Stylized }}
Line 25: Line 24:
 
|steam appid  =  
 
|steam appid  =  
 
|gogcom id    =  
 
|gogcom id    =  
 +
|hltb        = 5764
 +
|igdb        = mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat
 +
|lutris      = mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat
 
|strategywiki = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat
 
|strategywiki = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat
−
|mobygames    = mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat
+
|mobygames    = 106
 
|wikipedia    = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat
 
|wikipedia    = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat
 
|winehq      = 16792
 
|winehq      = 16792
Line 32: Line 34:
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
−
{{++}} [[#MechVM|MechVM]] fixes compatibility issues with modern systems.
+
|introduction      =
−
{{--}} Windows versions do not work on Windows 8 and later.<ref name="Windows 8">[https://www.zeus-software.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2305#p2305 Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error]</ref>
+
 
−
{{--}} Jumpjet recharge rate is dependent on framerate and often do not recharge at all unless the framerate is low.
+
|release history  = The game received two expansion packs, '''''Ghost Bear's Legacy''''' in November 1995 and the standalone '''''[[MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries|Mercenaries]]''''' in September 1996, each with their own campaigns and new 'Mechs. The multiplayer component, named '''''NetMech''''', was incomplete at the time of the game's launch, and was later released both as a free download and as a purchasable disc.
 +
 
 +
The game had several different releases; see [[#Version differences|Version differences]].
 +
 
 +
|current state    = On modern systems, the DOS version of the game is commonly played via [[#MechVM|MechVM]]. However, the Windows-native versions do not work on Windows 8 and later unless DxWnd is used.<ref name="Windows 8 Zeus">[https://www.zeus-software.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2305#p2305 Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error]</ref><ref name="Windows 8 MechVM">MechVM Manual.pdf</ref><ref name="Windows 8 DxWnd">[https://sourceforge.net/p/dxwnd/discussion/general/thread/588d55f5f7/?page=13&limit=25#1ee3/055e/da7d/645c Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Mechwarrior 2 Pentium Edition]</ref>
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
Line 46: Line 53:
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc | Mac OS version is a separate release.<br>DOS and Windows versions are packed together except in the earliest releases. | | DOS, Windows, Mac OS }}
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc | Mac OS version is a separate release.<br>DOS and Windows versions are packed together except in the earliest releases. | | DOS, Windows, Mac OS }}
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{ii}} This game is not available digitally.
+
{{ii}} Free demo versions are available from Archive.org: [https://archive.org/details/Mechwarrior231stCenturyCombatDemo original], [https://archive.org/details/Mechwarrior231stCenturyCombatDemo updated].
  
 
===Version differences===
 
===Version differences===
−
{{ii}} MechWarrior 2: The Titanium Trilogy is a complete edition including both expansions and [[MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries]]. Note however it is based on the Mercenaries' engine and thus has different stats and textures to the original as well as a cutdown music score.
+
{{ii}} '''The Titanium Trilogy''' is a complete edition including both expansions and [[MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries]]. Note however it is based on the Mercenaries' engine and thus has different stats and textures to the original as well as a cut-down music score.
 
{{ii}} The DOS version uses software rendering. This version can be played in [[DOSBox]].
 
{{ii}} The DOS version uses software rendering. This version can be played in [[DOSBox]].
 
{{ii}} The Windows 95, Pentium, Diamond Monster 3D, 3Dfx, Battlepack and Titanium versions can be played using [[#MechVM|MechVM]]. 95 and Pentium can be converted to be Glide capable with [http://www.localditch.com/mechwarrior/mech2/Mech2_3DFX_Conversion.zip these files].
 
{{ii}} The Windows 95, Pentium, Diamond Monster 3D, 3Dfx, Battlepack and Titanium versions can be played using [[#MechVM|MechVM]]. 95 and Pentium can be converted to be Glide capable with [http://www.localditch.com/mechwarrior/mech2/Mech2_3DFX_Conversion.zip these files].
Line 55: Line 62:
 
{{ii}} There are many visual differences between the hardware-accelerated versions; see the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWzWdwj9NvU 3D Acceleration Comparison] for details. Also see [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87tvXIIMJes MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat - DOS/Win95/3DFX/PS1/Saturn] and [http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=281 Different Versions of MechWarrior 2].
 
{{ii}} There are many visual differences between the hardware-accelerated versions; see the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWzWdwj9NvU 3D Acceleration Comparison] for details. Also see [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87tvXIIMJes MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat - DOS/Win95/3DFX/PS1/Saturn] and [http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=281 Different Versions of MechWarrior 2].
  
 +
==Monetization==
 
{{DLC|
 
{{DLC|
 
{{ii}} A standalone follow-up, [[MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries]], is also available.
 
{{ii}} A standalone follow-up, [[MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries]], is also available.
  
−
{{DLC/row| MechWarrior 2: Ghost Bear's Legacy | Sold separately or bundled with later releases. | DOS, Windows}}
+
{{DLC/row| Ghost Bear's Legacy | Sold separately or bundled with later releases. | DOS, Windows}}
 
{{DLC/row| NetMech | Online multiplayer service for MechWarrior 2. Was incomplete at the time of game release so was later released as an "expansion". | DOS, Mac OS, Windows}}
 
{{DLC/row| NetMech | Online multiplayer service for MechWarrior 2. Was incomplete at the time of game release so was later released as an "expansion". | DOS, Mac OS, Windows}}
 
}}
 
}}
Line 64: Line 72:
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===MechVM===
 
===MechVM===
−
{{ii}} Windows versions do not work on Windows 8 and later; choose the DOS version when prompted (not included with all Windows versions).<ref name="Windows 8"/>
+
{{ii}} MechVM cannot run Windows versions on Windows 8 and later; choose the DOS version when prompted (not included with all Windows versions).<ref name="Windows 8 Zeus"/><ref name="Windows 8 MechVM"/>
  
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use MechVM|ref=<ref>[https://www.zeus-software.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=502 Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error]</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use MechVM|ref=<ref>[https://www.zeus-software.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=502 Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error]</ref>|fix=
 
# Download [http://www.mechvm.org MechVM] and extract it.
 
# Download [http://www.mechvm.org MechVM] and extract it.
−
# Run <code>mechvm.exe</code> and install the game through it.
+
# Run {{file|mechvm.exe}} and install the game through it.
−
# Go to the <code>directx</code> folder on the game disc.
+
# Go to the {{folder|directx}} folder on the game disc.
−
# If <code>dplay.dll</code> exists copy it to the MechWarrior 2 installation folder.
+
# If {{file|dplay.dll}} exists, copy it to {{folder|{{p|game}}}}.
−
# Set <code>mech2.exe</code> to run in Windows 95 [[Windows Compatibility Mode|compatibility mode]].
+
# Set {{file|mech2.exe}} to run in Windows 95 [[Windows Compatibility Mode|compatibility mode]].
 
# For versions with 3dfx renderers (3dfx, Diamond Monster 3D, Titanium) use [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide].
 
# For versions with 3dfx renderers (3dfx, Diamond Monster 3D, Titanium) use [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide].
 +
}}
 +
 +
===DxWnd===
 +
{{ii}} DxWnd can run the Windows version on Windows XP all the way up to Windows 11.<ref name="Windows 8 MechVM"/>
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Pentium Edition|ref=<ref>[https://sourceforge.net/p/dxwnd/discussion/general/thread/588d55f5f7/?page=13&limit=25#1ee3/055e/da7d/645c Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Mechwarrior 2 Pentium Edition]</ref>|fix=
 +
# Insert the CD in your drive.
 +
# Install [https://github.com/otya128/winevdm WineVDM] v0.8.1 or newer.
 +
# Set {{file|START.EXE}} to run with Windows 95 compatibility settings from the Properties menu.
 +
# Running {{file|START.EXE}}, click on the <code>INSTALL</code> button to start installation.
 +
# After installation finishes, copy the {{file|DPLAY.DLL}} from the {{file|DIRECTX|folder}} folder of the CD to the game directory.
 +
# Download and install the MechWarrior 2 [https://www.patches-scrolls.com/mechwarrior2.php v1.1 patch].
 +
# After installation finishes, download [https://sourceforge.net/projects/dxwnd/ DxWnd] v2.05.81 or newer.
 +
# Download [https://www.vogons.org/download/file.php?id=131966 this attachment] for the Pentium Edition.
 +
# Install the .sdb file given in the attachment.
 +
# Open DxWnd and use import the profile given attachment. Set the executable path through DxWnd.
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Titanium Edition|ref=<ref>[https://sourceforge.net/p/dxwnd/discussion/general/thread/4b616e6bb7/#9068 Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Titanium Edition of MechWarrior 2]</ref>|fix=
 +
# Insert the CD in a disc drive.
 +
# Install [https://github.com/otya128/winevdm WineVDM] v0.8.1 or newer.
 +
# Set {{file|Setup.exe}} to run with Windows 95 compatibility settings from the Properties menu.
 +
# Running {{file|Setup.exe}}, click on the {{key|INSTALL}} button to start installation.
 +
# During installation, choose the {{key|HARDWARE ACCELERATION}} option which installs the Titanium Edition of the game.
 +
# After installation finishes, download [https://sourceforge.net/projects/dxwnd/ DxWnd] v2.05.81 or newer.
 +
# Rename {{file|Mw2win.exe}} to {{file|Mw2tit.exe}}.
 +
# Download [https://www.vogons.org/download/file.php?id=132722 this attachment] for the Titanium Edition.
 +
# Install the .sdb file given in the attachment.
 +
# Open DxWnd and use import the profile given attachment. Set the executable path through DxWnd.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use replacement MINTRO.SMK|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use replacement MINTRO.SMK|fix=
−
Apply the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/454-mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat-intro-skip/ MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat intro skip].
+
* Apply this [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/454-mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat-intro-skip/ intro skip].
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 125: Line 162:
 
|antialiasing              = hackable
 
|antialiasing              = hackable
 
|antialiasing notes        = Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide] and force in the graphics card control panel.
 
|antialiasing notes        = Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide] and force in the graphics card control panel.
 +
|upscaling                  = false
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 
|vsync                      = false
 
|vsync                      = false
 
|vsync notes                =  
 
|vsync notes                =  
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|120 fps                    = false
 
|120 fps                    = false
 
|120 fps notes              =  
 
|120 fps notes              =  
−
|hdr                        = unknown
+
|hdr                        = false
 
|hdr notes                  =  
 
|hdr notes                  =  
 
|color blind                = false
 
|color blind                = false
Line 143: Line 183:
 
# Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide].
 
# Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide].
 
# Run the nGlide configurator from the Start screen/Start menu.
 
# Run the nGlide configurator from the Start screen/Start menu.
−
# Set your resolution.
+
# Set the preferred resolution.
 
# Change aspect ratio to "4:3" for the correct perspective or "fit to screen" for a stretched output.
 
# Change aspect ratio to "4:3" for the correct perspective or "fit to screen" for a stretched output.
 
# Select the 3dfx renderer in-game.
 
# Select the 3dfx renderer in-game.
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|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
−
|touchscreen              = unknown
+
|touchscreen              = false
 
|touchscreen notes        =  
 
|touchscreen notes        =  
 
|controller support        = true
 
|controller support        = true
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|eax support              =  
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 +
|royalty free audio      = always on
 +
|royalty free audio notes =
 
|red book cd audio        = true
 
|red book cd audio        = true
 
|red book cd audio notes  =  
 
|red book cd audio notes  =  
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  |subtitles = false
 
  |subtitles = false
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes    = ''MechWarrior 2: Kampfspiel im 31. Jahrhundert''. The ingame computer lore files are all in English; all other text is written and dubbed in German. ''MechWarrior 2: Erweiterungs-Set Ghost Bear's Legacy'' also has a German translated/dubbed version available.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Japanese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes    = ''メックウォリア2''.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = unknown
 +
|subtitles = unknown
 +
|notes    = ''MechWarrior 2: Combate no Século 31''.
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
}}
 
}}
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|upnp =  
 
|upnp =  
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
−
==Issues unresolved==
 
−
===Windows version crashes on mission launch on Windows 8 or later===
 
−
{{--}} Windows versions crash on Windows 8 and later; use the DOS version instead.<ref name="Windows 8"/>
 
  
 
==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
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===Joystick not detected in Ghost Bear's Legacy===
 
===Joystick not detected in Ghost Bear's Legacy===
−
{{Fixbox|description=Copy missing giddi/giddiwin files|ref=<ref>[http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?p=8128#p8128 MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum • View topic - No joystick with Ghost Bear - SOLVED!!]</ref>|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Copy missing giddi/giddiwin files|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?p=8128#p8128|title=MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum • View topic - No joystick with Ghost Bear - SOLVED!!|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix=
−
# Open the <code>giddi</code> folder on the CD.
+
# Open the {{file|giddi|folder}} folder on the CD.
−
# Copy the contents to <code>giddi</code> in the installation folder.
+
# Copy the contents to {{file|giddi|folder}} in the installation folder.
−
# Open the <code>giddiwin</code> folder on the CD.
+
# Open the {{file|giddiwin|folder}} folder on the CD.
−
# Copy the contents to <code>giddiwin</code> in the installation folder.
+
# Copy the contents to {{file|giddiwin|folder}} in the installation folder.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Jump jets not recharging===
 
===Jump jets not recharging===
 
{{ii}} Jump Jets don't recharge if the computer is too fast.  
 
{{ii}} Jump Jets don't recharge if the computer is too fast.  
−
{{Fixbox|description=Reduce DOSBox cycles|ref=<ref>[http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1984 Jump-Jet Recharge Times] - MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum
+
{{Fixbox|description=Reduce DOSBox cycles|ref=<ref>[http://www.mech2.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1984 Jump-Jet Recharge Times] - MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum</ref>|fix=
−
</ref>|fix=
+
* Can be set on command line or batch file, <code>config -set cpu cycles 100000</code>.
−
* Can be set on command line or batch file, <code>config -set cpu cycles 100000</code>
 
 
* Ctrl-F11 or Ctrl-F12 can also adjust the game speed until jumpjets can recharge.  
 
* Ctrl-F11 or Ctrl-F12 can also adjust the game speed until jumpjets can recharge.  
 
}}
 
}}
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{{ii}} The DOS version is sensitive to an incorrect Sound Blaster choice.
 
{{ii}} The DOS version is sensitive to an incorrect Sound Blaster choice.
 
{{fixbox|description=Change audio settings|fix=
 
{{fixbox|description=Change audio settings|fix=
−
# Open <code>mw2setup.exe</code>
+
# Open {{file|mw2setup.exe}}.
−
# Choose "Configure Sound Devices", and "Select and configure digital audio driver"
+
# Choose "Configure Sound Devices", and "Select and configure digital audio driver".
 
# Choose the correct sound card.
 
# Choose the correct sound card.
 
#* DOSBox uses the Sound Blaster 16 by default.  
 
#* DOSBox uses the Sound Blaster 16 by default.  
Line 319: Line 380:
 
===API===
 
===API===
 
{{API
 
{{API
−
|direct3d versions      = 2.0
 
−
|direct3d notes        = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]).
 
 
|directdraw versions    = true
 
|directdraw versions    = true
−
|directdraw notes      = Used to draw main menu only.
+
|directdraw notes      = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]).
−
|opengl versions        = true
+
|opengl versions        =  
−
|opengl notes          = Rage 3D and PowerVR versions only.
+
|opengl notes          =  
 
|glide versions        = 2.11
 
|glide versions        = 2.11
 
|glide notes            = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]).
 
|glide notes            = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]).
Line 339: Line 398:
 
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        =
 
|windows exe notes      =  
 
|windows exe notes      =  
−
|macos intel 32-bit app =  
+
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
−
|macos intel 64-bit app =  
+
|macos intel 32-bit app = true
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = false
 +
|macos arm app          =  
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|linux 32-bit executable=  
 
|linux 32-bit executable=  
 
|linux 64-bit executable=  
 
|linux 64-bit executable=  
 +
|linux arm app          =
 
|linux executable notes =  
 
|linux executable notes =  
 +
|mac os powerpc app    = true
 +
|mac os 68k app        = unknown
 +
|mac os executable notes=
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
{{ii}} '''ATI CIF:''' Rage version<br>'''PowerSGL:''' PowerVR version<br>'''MSI:''' Matrox version<br>'''S3D:''' Virge version
  
 
===Middleware===
 
===Middleware===
Line 352: Line 420:
 
|physics          =  
 
|physics          =  
 
|physics notes    =  
 
|physics notes    =  
−
|audio            =  
+
|audio            = Miles Sound System
 
|audio notes      =  
 
|audio notes      =  
 
|interface        =  
 
|interface        =  
Line 389: Line 457:
 
|minHD    = 195 MB
 
|minHD    = 195 MB
 
|minGPU  = Direct3D or 3dfx compatible
 
|minGPU  = Direct3D or 3dfx compatible
 +
 +
|recOS    =
 +
|recCPU  =
 +
|recRAM  =
 +
|recHD    =
 +
|recGPU  =
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{System requirements
 +
|OSfamily = Mac OS
 +
 +
|minOS    = 7.5
 +
|minCPU  = PowerPC 601
 +
|minRAM  = 16 MB
 +
|minHD    = 40 MB
 +
|minaudio = Sound Manager 3.1
 +
|minother = 2x CD-ROM drive
  
 
|recOS    =  
 
|recOS    =  

Revision as of 02:22, 19 February 2024

MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat cover
Developers
Activision
Publishers
Activision
Engines
MechWarrior 2
Release dates
DOS July 24, 1995
Windows September 1995
Mac OS (Classic) July 1, 1996
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase, Expansion pack
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person, Third-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Vehicle combat
Vehicles Robot
Art styles Stylized
Themes Sci-fi
Series MechWarrior
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat on HowLongToBeat
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat on IGDB
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MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat guide on StrategyWiki
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat on MobyGames
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat on Wikipedia
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⤏ Go to series page
Subseries of BattleTech
MechWarrior 1989
MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat 1995
MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries 1996
MechWarrior 3 1999
MechWarrior 4: Vengeance 2000
MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries 2002
MechWarrior: Living Legends (unofficial game) 2009
MechWarrior Online 2012
MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries 2019
MechWarrior 5: Clans 2024

MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat is a singleplayer and multiplayer first-person and third-person vehicle combat game in the MechWarrior series.

The game received two expansion packs, Ghost Bear's Legacy in November 1995 and the standalone Mercenaries in September 1996, each with their own campaigns and new 'Mechs. The multiplayer component, named NetMech, was incomplete at the time of the game's launch, and was later released both as a free download and as a purchasable disc.

The game had several different releases; see Version differences.

On modern systems, the DOS version of the game is commonly played via MechVM. However, the Windows-native versions do not work on Windows 8 and later unless DxWnd is used.[1][2][3]

General information

BattleTech Wiki - A massive wiki for everything BattleTech related
MechWarrior 2 Resource Forum
Local Ditch Gaming - A good source for tips.

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
 Mac OS version is a separate release.
DOS and Windows versions are packed together except in the earliest releases.
DOS
Windows
Mac OS
Free demo versions are available from Archive.org: original, updated.

Version differences

The Titanium Trilogy is a complete edition including both expansions and MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries. Note however it is based on the Mercenaries' engine and thus has different stats and textures to the original as well as a cut-down music score.
The DOS version uses software rendering. This version can be played in DOSBox.
The Windows 95, Pentium, Diamond Monster 3D, 3Dfx, Battlepack and Titanium versions can be played using MechVM. 95 and Pentium can be converted to be Glide capable with these files.
The ATI Rage, Matrox Mystique, PowerVR, S3 ViRGE and STB Velocity versions are not usable on modern systems.
There are many visual differences between the hardware-accelerated versions; see the 3D Acceleration Comparison for details. Also see MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat - DOS/Win95/3DFX/PS1/Saturn and Different Versions of MechWarrior 2.

Monetization

DLC and expansion packs

A standalone follow-up, MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries, is also available.
Name Notes
Ghost Bear's Legacy Sold separately or bundled with later releases.
DOS
Windows
NetMech Online multiplayer service for MechWarrior 2. Was incomplete at the time of game release so was later released as an "expansion".
DOS
Mac OS
Windows

Essential improvements

MechVM

MechVM cannot run Windows versions on Windows 8 and later; choose the DOS version when prompted (not included with all Windows versions).[1][2]
Use MechVM[4]
  1. Download MechVM and extract it.
  2. Run mechvm.exe and install the game through it.
  3. Go to the directx folder on the game disc.
  4. If dplay.dll exists, copy it to <path-to-game>.
  5. Set mech2.exe to run in Windows 95 compatibility mode.
  6. For versions with 3dfx renderers (3dfx, Diamond Monster 3D, Titanium) use nGlide.

DxWnd

DxWnd can run the Windows version on Windows XP all the way up to Windows 11.[2]
Pentium Edition[5]
  1. Insert the CD in your drive.
  2. Install WineVDM v0.8.1 or newer.
  3. Set START.EXE to run with Windows 95 compatibility settings from the Properties menu.
  4. Running START.EXE, click on the INSTALL button to start installation.
  5. After installation finishes, copy the DPLAY.DLL from the DIRECTX folder of the CD to the game directory.
  6. Download and install the MechWarrior 2 v1.1 patch.
  7. After installation finishes, download DxWnd v2.05.81 or newer.
  8. Download this attachment for the Pentium Edition.
  9. Install the .sdb file given in the attachment.
  10. Open DxWnd and use import the profile given attachment. Set the executable path through DxWnd.
Titanium Edition[6]
  1. Insert the CD in a disc drive.
  2. Install WineVDM v0.8.1 or newer.
  3. Set Setup.exe to run with Windows 95 compatibility settings from the Properties menu.
  4. Running Setup.exe, click on the INSTALL button to start installation.
  5. During installation, choose the HARDWARE ACCELERATION option which installs the Titanium Edition of the game.
  6. After installation finishes, download DxWnd v2.05.81 or newer.
  7. Rename Mw2win.exe to Mw2tit.exe.
  8. Download this attachment for the Titanium Edition.
  9. Install the .sdb file given in the attachment.
  10. Open DxWnd and use import the profile given attachment. Set the executable path through DxWnd.

Patches

Install the latest Patch to fix various issues. Battlepack and Titanium versions are already patched.

Skip intro videos

Use replacement MINTRO.SMK

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
DOS
Windows <path-to-game>\[Note 1]
Mac OS (Classic)

Save game data location

System Location
DOS <path-to-game>\mw2reg.cfg
Windows
Mac OS (Classic)

Video

In-game general settings.
In-game general settings.
In-game movie playback settings.
In-game movie playback settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
 
 See the WSGF entry.
Multi-monitor
 
Ultra-widescreen
 
4K Ultra HD
 
Field of view (FOV)
Windowed
By default.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Install nGlide and force in the graphics card control panel.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Install nGlide and force in the graphics card control panel.
High-fidelity upscaling
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Vertical sync (Vsync)
For DOSBox use an unofficial build (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
60 FPS and 120+ FPS
High dynamic range display (HDR)

Widescreen resolution

The 3dfx edition can be played in widescreen (see the WSGF entry); other versions with 3dfx renderers can be run at higher resolutions using nGlide (choice of stretched or pillarboxed 4:3).
Use nGlide[citation needed]
  1. Install nGlide.
  2. Run the nGlide configurator from the Start screen/Start menu.
  3. Set the preferred resolution.
  4. Change aspect ratio to "4:3" for the correct perspective or "fit to screen" for a stretched output.
  5. Select the 3dfx renderer in-game.

View Distance

A patch to increase the game's view distance is available here.

Input

In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Mouse acceleration
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
Full controller support
Controller remapping
Controller sensitivity
Controller Y-axis inversion
Controller types
XInput-compatible controllers
PlayStation controllers
Generic/other controllers
Additional information
Controller hotplugging
Haptic feedback
Digital movement supported
Simultaneous controller+KB/M
Joystick interferes with keyboard aiming.

Audio

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
Royalty free audio
Red Book CD audio
On Windows, CD music might not play correctly; see the troubleshooting guide for solutions.

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
German
MechWarrior 2: Kampfspiel im 31. Jahrhundert. The ingame computer lore files are all in English; all other text is written and dubbed in German. MechWarrior 2: Erweiterungs-Set Ghost Bear's Legacy also has a German translated/dubbed version available.
Japanese
メックウォリア2.
Brazilian Portuguese
MechWarrior 2: Combate no Século 31.

Network

Multiplayer requires the Netmech expansion (sold separately or bundled with later releases).

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
LAN play
8
Online play
8 Official servers have been shut down.

Connection types

Type Native Notes
Matchmaking
Peer-to-peer
Dedicated
Self-hosting
Direct IP

Issues fixed

No music

The disc must be inserted in CD-ROM 0; see this page for details.

Joystick not detected in Ghost Bear's Legacy

Copy missing giddi/giddiwin files[7]
  1. Open the giddi folder on the CD.
  2. Copy the contents to giddi in the installation folder.
  3. Open the giddiwin folder on the CD.
  4. Copy the contents to giddiwin in the installation folder.

Jump jets not recharging

Jump Jets don't recharge if the computer is too fast.
Reduce DOSBox cycles[8]
  • Can be set on command line or batch file, config -set cpu cycles 100000.
  • Ctrl-F11 or Ctrl-F12 can also adjust the game speed until jumpjets can recharge.

Audio quality issues

The DOS version is sensitive to an incorrect Sound Blaster choice.
Change audio settings
  1. Open mw2setup.exe.
  2. Choose "Configure Sound Devices", and "Select and configure digital audio driver".
  3. Choose the correct sound card.
    • DOSBox uses the Sound Blaster 16 by default.
    • If you are unsure, pick "Creative Labs Sound Blaster or 100% compatible".

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
DirectDraw
Availability varies (see Version differences).
Glide 2.11 Availability varies (see Version differences).
Software renderer
Availability varies (see Version differences).
DOS video modes SVGA
ExecutablePPC16-bit 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
Mac OS (Classic)
ATI CIF: Rage version
PowerSGL: PowerVR version
MSI: Matrox version
S3D: Virge version

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio Miles Sound System
Cutscenes Smacker Video Technology

System requirements

DOS
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 5.0
Processor (CPU) Intel 486 66 MHz
System memory (RAM) 8 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 45 MB
Video card (GPU) SVGA 256 Color
Windows
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 95
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium 100 MHz
System memory (RAM) 16 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 195 MB
Video card (GPU) Direct3D or 3dfx compatible
Mac OS
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 7.5
Processor (CPU) PowerPC 601
System memory (RAM) 16 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 40 MB
Sound (audio device) Sound Manager 3.1
Other 2x CD-ROM drive


Notes

  1. ↑ 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