Difference between revisions of "MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat"
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{{Infobox game | {{Infobox game | ||
− | |cover = MechWarrior 2 | + | |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}} | ||
|release dates= | |release dates= | ||
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|July 24, 1995}} | {{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|July 24, 1995}} | ||
− | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|1995}} | + | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|September 1995}} |
{{Infobox game/row/date|Mac OS|July 1, 1996}} | {{Infobox game/row/date|Mac OS|July 1, 1996}} | ||
+ | |taxonomy = | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack }} | ||
+ | {{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 | Vehicle combat }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | Robot }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles | Stylized }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes | Sci-fi }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | MechWarrior }} | ||
|steam appid = | |steam appid = | ||
− | |gogcom | + | |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 = 106 | ||
|wikipedia = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat | |wikipedia = MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat | ||
|winehq = 16792 | |winehq = 16792 | ||
+ | |license = commercial | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
− | ''' | + | {{Introduction |
− | + | |introduction = | |
− | + | ||
− | + | |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''' | ||
{{mm}} [http://www.sarna.net/wiki/Main_Page BattleTech Wiki] - A massive wiki for everything BattleTech related | {{mm}} [http://www.sarna.net/wiki/Main_Page BattleTech Wiki] - A massive wiki for everything BattleTech related | ||
+ | {{mm}} [http://www.mech2.org/forum/index.php?sid=767502ed83b7723f236b29961bae8b3a MechWarrior 2 Resource Forum] | ||
{{mm}} [http://www.localditch.com/mechwarrior/mech2/index.html Local Ditch Gaming] - A good source for tips. | {{mm}} [http://www.localditch.com/mechwarrior/mech2/index.html Local Ditch Gaming] - A good source for tips. | ||
==Availability== | ==Availability== | ||
{{Availability| | {{Availability| | ||
− | {{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc | Mac OS version is a separate release.<br>DOS and Windows versions are packed together. | | 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}} | + | {{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}} | + | {{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]]. | + | {{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 ATI Rage, Matrox Mystique, PowerVR, S3 ViRGE and STB Velocity versions are not usable on modern systems. | {{ii}} The ATI Rage, Matrox Mystique, PowerVR, S3 ViRGE and STB Velocity versions are not usable on modern systems. | ||
− | {{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. | + | {{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| | + | {{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 49: | Line 72: | ||
==Essential improvements== | ==Essential improvements== | ||
===MechVM=== | ===MechVM=== | ||
− | {{ii}} Windows versions | + | {{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| | + | {{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 | + | # Run {{file|mechvm.exe}} and install the game through it. |
− | # Go to the | + | # Go to the {{folder|directx}} folder on the game disc. |
− | # If | + | # If {{file|dplay.dll}} exists, copy it to {{folder|{{p|game}}}}. |
− | # Set | + | # 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 [ | + | # 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. | ||
}} | }} | ||
===Patches=== | ===Patches=== | ||
− | {{ii}} Install the latest [ | + | {{ii}} Install the latest [https://www.patches-scrolls.com/mechwarrior2.php Patch] to fix various issues. Battlepack and Titanium versions are already patched. |
===Skip intro videos=== | ===Skip intro videos=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox| | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use replacement MINTRO.SMK|fix= |
− | + | * Apply this [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/454-mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat-intro-skip/ intro skip]. | |
− | Apply | ||
}} | }} | ||
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===Configuration file(s) location=== | ===Configuration file(s) location=== | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/config|DOS|}} |
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|game}}\}} |
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/config|Mac OS|}} |
}} | }} | ||
===Save game data location=== | ===Save game data location=== | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/saves|DOS|{{p|game}}\mw2reg.cfg}} |
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/saves|Windows|}} |
− | {{Game data/ | + | {{Game data/saves|Mac OS|}} |
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Video | + | ==Video== |
{{Image|MechWarrior 2 General.png|In-game general settings.}} | {{Image|MechWarrior 2 General.png|In-game general settings.}} | ||
{{Image|MechWarrior 2 Movie Playback.png|In-game movie playback settings.}} | {{Image|MechWarrior 2 Movie Playback.png|In-game movie playback settings.}} | ||
− | {{Video | + | {{Video |
− | |wsgf link = | + | |wsgf link = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat/en |
|widescreen wsgf award = limited | |widescreen wsgf award = limited | ||
|multimonitor wsgf award = unsupported | |multimonitor wsgf award = unsupported | ||
Line 95: | Line 145: | ||
|4k ultra hd wsgf award = unsupported | |4k ultra hd wsgf award = unsupported | ||
|widescreen resolution = hackable | |widescreen resolution = hackable | ||
− | |widescreen resolution notes= See the [ | + | |widescreen resolution notes= See the [https://www.wsgf.org/dr/mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat/en WSGF entry]. |
|multimonitor = false | |multimonitor = false | ||
|multimonitor notes = | |multimonitor notes = | ||
Line 109: | Line 159: | ||
|borderless windowed notes = | |borderless windowed notes = | ||
|anisotropic = hackable | |anisotropic = hackable | ||
− | |anisotropic notes = Install [ | + | |anisotropic notes = Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide] and force in the graphics card control panel. |
|antialiasing = hackable | |antialiasing = hackable | ||
− | |antialiasing notes = Install [ | + | |antialiasing notes = Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide] and force in the graphics card control panel. |
− | |vsync = | + | |upscaling = false |
− | |vsync notes = | + | |upscaling tech = |
+ | |upscaling notes = | ||
+ | |vsync = false | ||
+ | |vsync notes = | ||
|60 fps = false | |60 fps = false | ||
|60 fps notes = | |60 fps notes = | ||
|120 fps = false | |120 fps = false | ||
|120 fps notes = | |120 fps notes = | ||
+ | |hdr = false | ||
+ | |hdr notes = | ||
|color blind = false | |color blind = false | ||
|color blind notes = | |color blind notes = | ||
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===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ||
− | {{ii}} The 3dfx edition can be played in widescreen (see the [ | + | {{ii}} The 3dfx edition can be played in widescreen (see the [https://www.wsgf.org/dr/mechwarrior-2-31st-century-combat/en WSGF entry]); other versions with 3dfx renderers can be run at higher resolutions using [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide] (choice of stretched or pillarboxed 4:3). |
− | {{Fixbox| | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use nGlide|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= |
− | + | # Install [https://www.zeus-software.com/downloads/nglide nGlide]. | |
− | # Install [ | ||
# Run the nGlide configurator from the Start screen/Start menu. | # Run the nGlide configurator from the Start screen/Start menu. | ||
− | # Set | + | # 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. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Input | + | ===View Distance=== |
+ | {{ii}} A patch to increase the game's view distance is available [http://www.mech2.org/forum/download/file.php?id=44 here]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==Input== | ||
{{Image|MechWarrior 2 Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}} | {{Image|MechWarrior 2 Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}} | ||
− | {{Input | + | {{Input |
|key remap = true | |key remap = true | ||
|key remap notes = | |key remap notes = | ||
Line 147: | Line 204: | ||
|invert mouse y-axis = true | |invert mouse y-axis = true | ||
|invert mouse y-axis notes = | |invert mouse y-axis notes = | ||
+ | |touchscreen = false | ||
+ | |touchscreen notes = | ||
|controller support = true | |controller support = true | ||
|controller support notes = | |controller support notes = | ||
Line 157: | Line 216: | ||
|invert controller y-axis = true | |invert controller y-axis = true | ||
|invert controller y-axis notes= | |invert controller y-axis notes= | ||
− | | | + | |xinput controllers = unknown |
− | | | + | |xinput controllers notes = |
− | |button prompts | + | |xbox prompts = unknown |
− | |button prompts notes | + | |xbox prompts notes = |
+ | |impulse triggers = unknown | ||
+ | |impulse triggers notes = | ||
+ | |dualshock 4 = unknown | ||
+ | |dualshock 4 notes = | ||
+ | |dualshock prompts = unknown | ||
+ | |dualshock prompts notes = | ||
+ | |light bar support = unknown | ||
+ | |light bar support notes = | ||
+ | |dualshock 4 modes = unknown | ||
+ | |dualshock 4 modes notes = | ||
+ | |tracked motion controllers= unknown | ||
+ | |tracked motion controllers notes = | ||
+ | |tracked motion prompts = unknown | ||
+ | |tracked motion prompts notes = | ||
+ | |other controllers = unknown | ||
+ | |other controllers notes = | ||
+ | |other button prompts = unknown | ||
+ | |other button prompts notes= | ||
|controller hotplug = unknown | |controller hotplug = unknown | ||
|controller hotplug notes = | |controller hotplug notes = | ||
|haptic feedback = unknown | |haptic feedback = unknown | ||
|haptic feedback notes = | |haptic feedback notes = | ||
− | | | + | |simultaneous input = false |
− | | | + | |simultaneous input notes = Joystick interferes with keyboard aiming. |
+ | |steam input api = unknown | ||
+ | |steam input api notes = | ||
+ | |steam hook input = unknown | ||
+ | |steam hook input notes = | ||
+ | |steam input presets = unknown | ||
+ | |steam input presets notes = | ||
+ | |steam controller prompts = unknown | ||
+ | |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 = | ||
Line 183: | Line 270: | ||
|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 notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 193: | Line 284: | ||
|notes = | |notes = | ||
|fan = | |fan = | ||
− | |fan notes = | + | }} |
+ | {{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 = | ||
}} | }} | ||
}} | }} | ||
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|upnp = | |upnp = | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
==Issues fixed== | ==Issues fixed== | ||
Line 243: | Line 353: | ||
===Joystick not detected in Ghost Bear's Legacy=== | ===Joystick not detected in Ghost Bear's Legacy=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox| | + | {{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 {{file|giddi|folder}} folder on the CD. | |
− | # Open the | + | # Copy the contents to {{file|giddi|folder}} in the installation folder. |
− | # Copy the contents to | + | # Open the {{file|giddiwin|folder}} folder on the CD. |
− | # Open the | + | # Copy the contents to {{file|giddiwin|folder}} in the installation folder. |
− | # Copy the contents to <code> | + | }} |
+ | |||
+ | ===Jump jets not recharging=== | ||
+ | {{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</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | * 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. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Audio quality issues=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} The DOS version is sensitive to an incorrect Sound Blaster choice. | ||
+ | {{fixbox|description=Change audio settings|fix= | ||
+ | # Open {{file|mw2setup.exe}}. | ||
+ | # Choose "Configure Sound Devices", and "Select and configure digital audio driver". | ||
+ | # 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". | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 254: | Line 380: | ||
===API=== | ===API=== | ||
{{API | {{API | ||
− | | | + | |directdraw versions = true |
− | | | + | |directdraw notes = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]). |
− | |||
− | |||
|opengl versions = | |opengl versions = | ||
|opengl notes = | |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]]). | ||
− | |software mode = | + | |software mode = true |
|software mode notes = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]). | |software mode notes = Availability varies (see [[#Version differences|Version differences]]). | ||
|mantle support = | |mantle support = | ||
|mantle support notes = | |mantle support notes = | ||
− | |vulkan | + | |vulkan versions = |
− | |vulkan | + | |vulkan notes = |
− | |dos modes = | + | |dos modes = SVGA |
|dos modes notes = | |dos modes notes = | ||
|shader model versions = | |shader model versions = | ||
|shader model notes = | |shader model notes = | ||
− | |64-bit | + | |windows 32-bit exe = true |
− | |64-bit executable notes= | + | |windows 64-bit exe = false |
+ | |windows arm app = | ||
+ | |windows exe notes = | ||
+ | |mac os x powerpc app = unknown | ||
+ | |macos intel 32-bit app = true | ||
+ | |macos intel 64-bit app = false | ||
+ | |macos arm app = | ||
+ | |macos app notes = | ||
+ | |linux 32-bit executable= | ||
+ | |linux 64-bit executable= | ||
+ | |linux arm app = | ||
+ | |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 280: | Line 420: | ||
|physics = | |physics = | ||
|physics notes = | |physics notes = | ||
− | |audio = | + | |audio = Miles Sound System |
|audio notes = | |audio notes = | ||
|interface = | |interface = | ||
Line 286: | Line 426: | ||
|input = | |input = | ||
|input notes = | |input notes = | ||
− | |cutscenes = Smacker Video | + | |cutscenes = Smacker Video Technology |
|cutscenes notes = | |cutscenes notes = | ||
|multiplayer = | |multiplayer = | ||
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|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 = |
Latest revision as of 23:10, 8 April 2024
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 |
⤏ 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 | Mac OS version is a separate release. DOS and Windows versions are packed together except in the earliest releases. |
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. | |
NetMech | Online multiplayer service for MechWarrior 2. Was incomplete at the time of game release so was later released as an "expansion". |
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] |
---|
|
DxWnd
- DxWnd can run the Windows version on Windows XP all the way up to Windows 11.[2]
Pentium Edition[5] |
---|
|
Titanium Edition[6] |
---|
|
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
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] |
---|
|
View Distance
- A patch to increase the game's view distance is available here.
Input
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] |
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|
Jump jets not recharging
- Jump Jets don't recharge if the computer is too fast.
Reduce DOSBox cycles[8] |
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|
Audio quality issues
- The DOS version is sensitive to an incorrect Sound Blaster choice.
Change audio settings |
---|
|
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 |
Executable | PPC | 16-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
- ↑ 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
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 MechVM Manual.pdf
- ↑ Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Mechwarrior 2 Pentium Edition
- ↑ Forum | Zeus Software • View topic - Mechwarrior 2: 31st Century Combat compatibility list error
- ↑ Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Mechwarrior 2 Pentium Edition
- ↑ Discussion | DxWnd • View topic - Titanium Edition of MechWarrior 2
- ↑ MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum • View topic - No joystick with Ghost Bear - SOLVED!! - last accessed on 9 June 2023
- ↑ Jump-Jet Recharge Times - MechWarrior 2: Resource Forum