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                          Documentation for Panda 2
                                 Version 1.3
                      Copyright (c) 1999-2000 el Hamil

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  This product includes software developed by the University of California,
  Berkeley and its contributors.

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===================
 Table of Contents
===================

Introduction
System requirements
How to install and uninstall
How to play
Level editor
Troubleshooting
Legal mumbo-jumbo
Links



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==============
 Introduction
==============

Panda 2 is a simple, fun puzzle game for the entire family. Versions exist
for both MS-DOS and Windows, in both Swedish and English. This documentation
applies to both OS versions, except where stated otherwise.

If you're into game creation, you might like to know that Panda 2 was written
in C++, and compiled with DJGPP (for the MS-DOS version) and MSVC++ (for the
Windows version). Both versions use the excellent library Allegro to draw
graphics and to read the keyboard.



=====================
 System requirements
=====================

Panda 2 is quite a primitive game, so you should be able to run it using any
non-stoneage computer. However, the Windows version requires DirectX 3 (or
better).



==============================
 How to install and uninstall
==============================

The installing of Panda 2 is done manually. Simply unpack the zip file to a
folder of your choice. I suggest you create a new folder called "Panda 2" for
that purpose.

If you don't have a zip program, you can easily obtain a 30-day trial version
of WinZip, see below.

To run the Windows version, you need an extra dll called All30w8.dll.
Download it from Panda's homepage, and put in your Windows\System folder.

Uninstalling Panda 2 is also done manually. Simply delete the entire Panda 2
folder. This is not dangerous, since Panda 2 doesn't mess with your system.



=============
 How to play
=============

Playing is simple. You control Panda using the arrow keys. However, whenever
Panda has started heading in a direction, he won't stop until he hits an
obstacle. Thinking ahead "were will he stop?" is the key to success.

The goal on each level is to pick all the keys and then enter the unlocked
gate, which may sound easier than it is. Sometimes poor Panda may end up
trapped, unable to reach all the keys, or fail in another way. You may have
no other choice than to restart and try again - press ESC and select "Restart
level".



==============
 Level editor
==============

In this game, you can create your own levels! By choosing "Create your own
levels" in the main menu, you will arrive in the editor, where you can place
trees and keys etc. Hopefully you'll find the editor pretty easy to use. Here
is a short summary.

Commands:

  ESC             Quit
  S               Save
  O               Open a saved level
  T               Name the level / give it a title
  Arrow keys      Move the cursor
  Enter           Choose what to insert (tree, key, gate etc.)
  Space           Insert it
  Delete          Clear tile, down to the grass

The level is saved into a file with .pan as file suffix. After saving the
level, you can play it by choosing "Play your own levels" in the main menu,
and type in its file name.



=================
 Troubleshooting
=================

Computer games are well-known trouble makers. Let me describe how to solve
some of the most common problems with Panda 2.

Problem: When attempting to startup the DOS version, a screwup takes place
  (your monitor goes black, your computer reboots etc.)
Solution: Most likely your graphics card does not support VESA 640*480*8. Try the Windows
  version instead, and wish yourself luck.

Problem: When trying to start the DOS version, this text appear on screen:
  "Load error: no DPMI - Get csdpmi*b.zip"
Solution: You are trying to start the game from pure DOS, aren't you? Better
  do it from inside Windows, or get yourself a DPMI server for DOS.



===================
 Legal mumbo-jumbo
===================

Panda 2 is freeware, which means it doesn't cost any money and may be
distributed freely. However, there are some restrictions:

* You may not alter the game in any way, not even correct my spelling errors
  in this text.

* If you distribute the game to others, you must include the entire game,
  including the icon and this readme file.

* Panda 2 must remain freeware - you cannot charge money for it.

* If you want to upload Panda 2 on your own homepage, or include it on a
  shareware CD, or something like that, please ask me for permission first.
  You WILL be given permission, I'm just curious about what happens with my
  game :)



=======
 Links
=======

Allegro:    http://alleg.sourceforge.net/
DirectX:    http://www.microsoft.com/directx/
DJGPP:      http://www.delorie.com/djgpp/
Panda 2:    http://www.panda2.cjb.net/ or http://w1.631.telia.com/~u63118893/panda2/
WinZip:     http://www.winzip.com/



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Have fun!

el Hamil
elhamil@hotmail.com
