Freeform Space Combat / Trader and Mercenary Simulator (PC Space-Sim)

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Game:
- What is Evochron Renegades?
- What features set Evochron Renegades apart from other space-sims?
- How is Evochron Renegades different from the original Evochron and Evochron Alliance 2.0?
- What inspired you to create Evochron?
- How do I upgrade my copy of the game to a newer version?

Video, Sound, and Performance Questions:
- The framerate is really low and/or some of the sound or music in the game crackles, what's wrong?
- When I try to run the game, it closes with a 'D3D' error or a '3D Video Error! Unable to set required video properties.' message. What's wrong?
- I have a problem running the game and the suggestions here haven't fixed it. What can I do?

Gameplay and Multiplayer Questions:
- I located a hidden storage container with a primary weapon, how do I recover it?
- I use a router/firewall/ICS/NAT and can't get internet-based multiplayer to work?
- The game occasionally exits, closes, or slows down/stutters in multiplayer?

Buying and Registering:
- What if I lose my registration information, can I still get the key to the game I paid for?
- I would like to buy several licenses for family/friends, can I get a discount for the game?
- I purchased the game and haven't received my registration key after the 24 hour timeframe, what can I do?
- How does the order process and key/copy protection system work, can I install the game later on a new computer I buy?

What is Evochron Renegades?
- Evochron Renegades is the sequel to Evochron Alliance with a lot of design aspects heavily influenced by player feedback and requests. It is a first person 3D space combat, trader, and mercenary simulation. You can make diverse buying, fighting, and travelling decisions in a large universe without the hesitation of turn-based gameplay or the reduced immersion of an overhead/outside view. You are literally in the action with a consistent first person viewpoint and make all gameplay decisions directly from the cockpit.

The main goal of the game's design is to provide the only freeform space-sim that lets you buy, trade, negotiate, bribe, spy, race, transport, mine, explore, recruit, design your ship, and protect in an open, seamless universe (without loading screens or sudden environment flipping) also without system 'walls' or required jump/warp gates. Freedom, interaction, and gameplay choices are the priorities of the game's design. Fly where you want, when you want, and complete a wide variety of activities to advance in the game and make your fortune.

Evochron Renegades offers many unique space combat, environment, and gameplay elements including a real-time dynamic changing economy (with realistically revolving inventories), seamless planetary descents and other environment transitions, multi-level threat system, commodity/item/equipment trading, ship-to-ship trading in all gameplay modes, diverse control support (Mouse, Keyboard, AND Joystick control options), unrestricted open space jump drive travel and navigation system, realistic Newtonian physics, fuel resource management, per ship bribing, in-cockpit inventory and trade management, gravity effects, AI based trade negotiating, and more.

What features set Evochron Renegades apart from other space-sims?
- Below is a list of unique features found in Evochron Renegades. Some other space-sims might have some of these features, but Evochron Renegades is the only one that includes all of them in one game:

- Direct Ship-to-Ship trading in addition to stations and planets
- Player controlled seamless planetary descents with station landing
- Atmosphere effects (drag, lift, descent burn/glow, maneuvering limitations, etc)
- Diverse gameplay objectives including buying, trading, negotiating, bribing, spying, racing, transporting, mining, exploring, cleaning equipment, clearing paths through asteroid fields, recruiting, protecting, and designing your ship.
- Unified single player and multiplayer architecture (keep what you earn in both modes)
- Mouse, Keyboard, AND Joystick/Gamepad control options
- Real-time gameplay docking and trading
- Unrestricted, open space jump drive system travel
- Realistic Newtonian physics
- Hiring and managing specialized crew members
- 3D cockpit with displays and readout text rendered as part of the 3D scene, not merely a 2D layer of text and sprites
- Fuel resource management
- Dynamic changing economy
- Customize HUD, cockpit, and ship/item names
- Per ship reputations with optional bribing
- Realistic revolving inventory availability
- Radar (with 3D spherical direction indication)
- Target direction tracking display (with optional multiple target tracking)
- In-cockpit inventory and trade management
- Directional shielding with augment control
- Auto-repair ship upgrade devices
- Stealth/cloaking devices
- EMP weapons
- Gravity effects
- Multiplayer
- AI based trade negotiating
- HUD based direction and orientation guides
- Variable maneuvering thruster control (for all directions and rotations)
- All degrees of freedom of motion (forward/reverse, left/right, up/down, pitch, roll, and yaw)

How is Evochron Renegades different from the original Evochron and Evochron Alliance 2.0?
- Evochron Renegades adds many player requested features and changes. I've been able to implement most of the features I've had on my to-do list, some of which have been on the list for several years and weren't feasible under the older game's design. Here is a list of some of the changes and new features found in Renegades compared to the older games:

- Universe scale greatly increased for improved realism.
- Improved planetary descent effects, terrain, and cities.
- Seamless planetary ring environment effect with particles and fog.
- Individual faction/clan/military reputation system included with the overall local reputation system.
- Asteroid cave system improved (size and design), including seamless transition from open space.
- Racing system and options added, both solo timed courses and one on one duels.
- Universe changed to be entirely seamless, no borders or required gates/warping for travel.
- Universe design and object modification system added.
- All-new multiplayer system that is more router friendly and offers higher performance.
- Cooperative multiplayer contract objectives and shared pay for completed contracts.
- Multiple station designs added, along with illumination for lights.
- Box hangars replaced with 360-degree dockable zones for all stations.
- Optional jump gates added for long range travel.
- New high detail 3D cockpit with tiltable gauges and enhanced structures.
- Nav map revised for a larger size, adjustable zoom, and view rotation.
- Map log added for saving important locations.
- All new shipyard that lets you customize the appearance and design of your ship.
- Economic/market classes given to each planet, indicating unique pricing and item availability.
- Smarter AI with multiple ship strategies (AI ships can join together for combat and peaceful activities).
- Solar array cleaning and asteroid field clearing contracts added.
- Fuel converter equipment added to upgrade inventory (converts high energy particles into free fuel).
- Planetary weather effects (rain, snow, turbulence, etc.) and water added.
- Beam weapons added for both capital ships and for the player's ship.
- External thruster effects that respond to the IDS and player input.
- Clearing shipping paths by destroying asteroids added to available contract objectives.
- Ability to track capital ships with the standard ship targeting system added.
- Target subsystem status monitoring added.
- Combat fleet system added, letting the player hire escort ships for combat protection.
- Ability to load non-commodities (cannons, missiles, equipment, etc) in the cargo bay added.
- Option to save in different profile slots (multiple save points) in-game.
- Greatly enhanced graphics and sound effects.

What inspired you to create Evochron?
- Space-sim fans are very imaginative people. We all have our own opinions on how certain space-sim concepts should be done. I've enjoyed many of the recent space trader/mercenary games, but wanted to create my own design for such a game that provided the gameplay, control, and immersion I was looking for. I wanted to make a game that would be easier to get into, offered complete control options, supported mouse based in-cockpit target selection and menu control, included unique gameplay elements such as planetary descents and ship-to-ship trading, and featured modern graphics. I collected my ideas for such a game, reviewed feedback from players of my previous space games, developed a design concept, then began working on a project that eventually became Evochron. Renegades is a new game that offers similar gameplay as the original game(s), but with a much larger, seamless universe, many new/more gameplay options, improved graphics, and enhanced sound. My hope for this project is that a large number of space-sim enthusiasts will enjoy playing and customizing the game.

How do I upgrade my copy of the game to a newer version?
- The game can be updated, patched, and reinstalled using the same downloadable installation file available on the game's website. One installation file is used for the demo, full version, and all upgrades/patches. This helps make the process of installation and upgrading easy. You can upgrade/patch your copy of the game without interfering with the registration status for both the demo and full version. Your settings and player profiles are also preserved when upgrading.

The framerate is really low and/or some of the sound or music in the game crackles, what's wrong?
- Sound crackling/stuttering can occur if you use an on-board sound system (that is, the sound system is built into the motherboard) or your system has trouble keeping up with the resource demands of the game due to low 3D performance and/or low system resources. A 3D game uses a lot of your computer's resources and if your system has to devote some of its resources for audio or other tasks, it can reduce overall performance and cause sound or framerate problems (even on fast CPU's). The first thing to try is update the drivers for your 3D video card and sound system. If the problem continues, stop all non-essential running programs to free up as much of your system's resources as possible. These two steps usually solve any performance problems most players encounter.

Note for GeForce FX 5200 users: During testing, some systems equipped with the GeForce FX 5200 series of video cards did not perform well with the game. Although the FX 5200 supports a proper hardware feature set for the game, it occasionally failed to provide enough performance to run the game well (although on some system configurations with FX 5200's, the game played just fine). It is strongly recommended that if you have this 3D video card, you update your drivers to the latest version available from Nvidia or your system manufacturer.

When I try to run the game, it closes with a 'D3D' error or a '3D Video Error! Unable to set required video properties.' message. What's wrong?
- A D3D error is almost always associated with Direct 3D not being able to initiate. This means your 3D card hasn't been enabled. To correct this, install the latest drivers for your 3D card and the latest version of DirectX. If the 3D Video Error message is displayed, some rendering properties of your 3D card could not be accessed. Installing the latest video drivers usually fixes this problem. Here are links to several 3D video card manufacturer websites:
Nvidia
ATI
Matrox

I have a problem running the game and the suggestions here haven't fixed it. What can I do?
- If you haven't been able to find a solution to a particular problem, you can complete the following steps to forward your system specifications/details in an e-mail so further assistance may be possible.
- Click on Start, Run, then type in MSINFO32 and press enter.
- Then click on the File option at the top and click on Save.
- Save the NFO file, then attach it to an e-mail, send it to and include a detailed description of the problem.

I located a hidden storage container with a primary weapon, how do I recover it?
- Recovering a primary weapon from a storage container can be a challenging task. First, you'll need to sell your current primary weapon to make room for the new one. Then, make your way back to the storage container as quickly as possible to reduce your vulnerability since you will be unarmed (except for secondary weapons only). It will take some skill with the jump drive (if you chose to use it), careful planning, and some luck to be successful. Once you have recovered the primary weapon and have it loaded onto your ship, press Alt-Q to quick save your progress so you don't have to go through the entire process again.

I use a router/firewall/ICS/NAT and can't get internet-based multiplayer to work?
- On most systems, you can simply join a multiplayer game. However, certain routers and/or firewalls may block the needed ports for the game. You may need to open/forward ports manually to get multiplayer to work (for details on how to do this, refer to the documentation for your router/modem/firewall). Hosting a game will often require opening the needed ports. With many devices, you can often access the settings by entering the IP address 192.168.0.1 in your web browser. The following ports are needed for the game:

- 3998 TCP
- 3999 TCP

If you're using a router, another option is to bypass your router and connect directly to your modem via ethernet or USB.

Another option is placing the gaming computer in the DMZ (refer to your router's documentation on how to do this), although this is not recommended due to the higher security risk.

If you're using a firewall, you can usually just make an exception for the game. For help with configuring your firewall, please consult the documentation that came with your firewall software.

For additional resources on configuring ports/routers for multiplayer games, visit PortForward.com

A list of active multiplayer sessions is displayed on the main evochronrenegades.com website in addition to the in-game search option. On occasion, some multiplayer sessions may terminate without being removed from the list of games if the host does not (or is not able to) exit the session from within the game. Such inactive games are generally removed from the list quickly, but some may be listed briefly. If you suspect one of the sessions listed is not active, simply inform a forum moderator/admin or contact me directly.

Note: Disabling a firewall, placing a computer in the DMZ, or opening ports can result in lower security for your network/internet connection. By disabling such security measures, it's possible for someone to break into your network and cause harm to your computer and/or obtain personal information from your computer. If you choose to disable your network security measures, you do so at your own risk. The most secure way to play multiplayer games is through a wired LAN (local area network) and NOT a wireless one.

The game occasionally exits, closes, or slows down/stutters in multiplayer?
- This can happen if your system is not able to keep up with the resource/performance needs of the game. Make sure your system meets the minimum requirements listed in the instructions. Then verify you are not running anything in the background that could reduce performance, background programs can cause the game to run poorly and reduce the performance of your internet connection. Hold the tilde key (~) during gameplay and verify your system is able to maintain at least around 15 frames per second (top left number). Make sure your internet connection is not being shared or used for anything other than the game during gameplay (such as downloading). Verify you have at least 1GB of system memory available to the game, preferably 1.5 GB or more. When you've reviewed your system in these areas, relaunch the game and try again.

What if I lose my registration information, can I still get the key to the game I paid for?
Yes. The online renewal/key request form and e-mail options only require you to enter your name and e-mail address (any additional information just makes the process faster, but isn't required). The renewal/key request options are free and details are provided with your order confirmation e-mail.

I would like to buy several licenses for family/friends, can I get a discount for the game?
Yes. The discount varies based on the number of copies needed. Have a member of the group contact me with the details of your group (name of group, names of members including e-mail addresses, number of systems, etc.) and I will supply instructions on buying multiple licenses at a discount price. A seperate registration will be given to each group member (each one will have the renewal option and full registration benefits).

I purchased the game and haven't received my registration key after the 24 hour timeframe, what can I do?
The most likely cause is that the e-mail address you provided with your order is rejecting our e-mails to you (usually because the e-mail address you provided with your order is spelled incorrectly or your mailbox is full). We attempt to send your registration e-mail 3 times, if it fails on the third attempt, we mail a hard copy of your registration by regular postal mail within 1 business day or as soon as convenient. You can also contact us any time you want to so we can verify your correct e-mail address and resend your information as needed. To expedite your order, please verify your e-mail address is correct when placing your order and make sure your mailbox is not full.

How does the order process and key/copy protection system work, can I install the game later on a new computer I buy?
Once an order is processed and passes the fraud check (which usually takes less than 24 hours, often less than a few hours), a key is generated and e-mailed to the registered user. The key is unique and is specifically assigned to the person that ordered the game. The key does not expire and will allow the game to be installed on one computer at a time, including installing it on a different computer at a later date.

Once the game is registered, it converts itself into the full version. The full version can be updated, patched, and reinstalled using the same downloadable installation file available on the game's website. One installation file is used for the demo, full version, and all upgrades/patches. This helps make the process of installation and upgrading easier for the player. You can upgrade/patch your copy of the game without interfering with the registration status for both the demo and full version.

For copy protection, the system uses a couple of methods. Here is an overview of the copy protection system:

- Online verification check at the time of key entry (insures the key is only being used on one computer at a time).
- Offline verification check each time the game is launched (verifies the full version of the game is being played on the same computer it was registered on).
- Multiplayer verification (prevents two or more copies of the game from connecting to each other if they are attempting to use the same key or an invalid key).

No personal information is ever used in these copy protection verifications. Even the key is uniquely generated and is not based on your name or e-mail address.

A key can be deactivated if someone tries to use the same key to install the full game on more than one computer simultaneously. In this event, the key may need to be reactivated. The registered user can send an e-mail to request their key be reactivated for use on a different computer.

No hidden background programs or device drivers are used for the copy protection/key system. The game handles everything internally and only performs a key check when needed. So no system resources are consumed unnecessarily and no hidden applications/drivers are used. I don't want hidden background programs or hidden drivers installed on my own computer, so I certainly don't expect the players of my games to have to use them either.