Copyright: DQ V3.4 StoneAge Software 1992-1995


 Dragon Quest  V3.5

Background

The Inspiration

The Story Begins...

Playing The Game	   Legalities

Object Of The Game	Disclaimer

The Game Window	Register This Software

Menus

Game Points

Hints


Background; Inspiration
 Background:  The Inspiration

This game, as well as several other role playing adventure games, were originally designed and written for a Commodore B-128 PET OS in about 1987.  With the advent of Windows, it became apparent that the old days of playing 'adventure' on the IBM mainframe (or VAX) were going away forever.  I have always enjoyed playing these role playing adventure games, and think that this Windows format is easy to understand and to play.   This game is intended to let the adventurer use a small amount of logic and imagination to solve the obstacles within this game.  This game is dedicated to the people who have played these role playing games long before Windows was ever imagined.

This game is dedicated to my wife, Princess Heather.

I hope you enjoy the adventure!

P.O. Box 621881

Littleton, Colorado 80162-1881

Timothy W. Stone, President


The Story Begins
       Background: The Story Begins...

Once upon a time... there lived a wise King named Ariasus, who was loved by his people and all was well.  He had one beautiful daughter, whose name was Heather.  The King was a very happy King, and life was good.  All the pleasures of life, luck and good fortune followed Ariasus wherever he went.

At that same time, there lived a great Dragon, named Barth.  Barth was his name, and so great was his wingspan that no one man could see from one wingtip to the other when Barth was closer than 100 meters to them.  Not only was Barth extremely large, but the fire that brewed within him dwarfed the searing roar that emitted from his nostrils when Barth was upset or angered.  This dragon was the son of Bard The Dragon Of Yore.  In the centuries long forgotten, Bard ruled all the lands.  But that changed, too, like everything else in this world.  Before Bard died, though, he had a son whom he named Barth.  Barth had been sent to continue the devastation and plunder, as had been the rule for centuries.

For many years Barth had all the treasures he could want.  But, like all dragons, Barth could never get enough treasure for his lair.  And when all of the people within his range had either been killed or driven away, and there was no more wealth to be had from the land, he went in search of further riches for his cache.

Thus... the pleasant days of Ariasus' realm became a thing of the past.  Three times did the great Dragon, Barth, strike at the kingdom of Ariasus, and three times he was repelled.  But the knights and townspeople grew weary, and many were killed.  On the fourth attack, however, a spirit came from within Barth that he had never known before.  His courage and disregard for danger allowed him to steal the king's staff, and Princess Heather.

Princess Heather, was a beautiful, elven shaped woman with rich chestnut hair and green eyes.  Her smile was as perfume, and her gaze brought either warmth and happiness or a cold shadow; as would her mood be.  The Princess and her father, the King were very close, and his torment to recapture his daughter and bring her safely back to him was growing desperate.

The King tried and tried to find a knight who might free him from his grief and embarrassment.  Many knights have come and failed.   Are you up to the task?


The Story Continues
        Background: The Story Continues...

Version 3.5 provides a continuation of the V3.4 story.  Some of the assumptions made towards the end of the V3.4 chapter turn out to be quite different at the beginning of V3.5.

Dragon Quest V3.5, chapter 1 has ended, and chapter 2 is just beginning.  Good Luck.


Object Of The Game
 Playing The Game:  Object Of The Game

This game is a role playing game which requires the player to lead a character through a series of obstacles to achieve a culminated ending.  It may or may be not be obvious as to the route to success.  There is no specific order for some obstacles, while other obstacles must be achieved within a specific order.  The inability to correctly maneuver through these obstacles may have varying effects.  There is an element of chance to all confrontations, but the rule is that a player must have something to attack with, and something to defend against an opponent's onslaught.  There is a character who can explain your charter, if you accept, and will instruct you as to how to become the success (your poor farmer father always wanted you to be).  There are other collectibles spread through this game.  These are worth points toward success as well, but you cannot carry them all around with you.  How to collect full points is available through the course of this adventure.

Some objects cannot be picked up because of an unfriendly character obstacle, or because a necessary object is not in the possession of the player.  An example of this is that a small, leather pouch is required to pick up food, or other small items.  The limit of objects carried consecutively is 13.  No regard has been made to an object's relative mass.  A player may not hold more than 13 items at any time, regardless of the combination of objects.

There is a portion of the game which requires the player to have light.  It would make sense that if a character climbed into a cave or similar area, light would be needed to see.  This is the case in Dragon Quest.  There were not a lot of tools available to adventurers during the dark ages., and you'll just have to do the best you can with what you have.  There are a number of good things which cause sparks.

Don't forget to eat something, now and then.   But remember that there are other living beings which are hungry, too.


Game Window descriptions
 Playing The Game:  The Game Window


Game Menus Outline
   Menus

There are only two menus available to the user.  These menus are on the Status Window.

File

Score!

Help


Selections
   File Menu

The following File Menu options are available:

New	-	Start a new game an initialize all game variables

Open	-	Start from a game already saved to disk

Save	-	Save the current game to a file which already exists

Fast Exit	-	Exit the game immediately - do not stop go - do not collect $200.

Exit	-	Exit the Game and check your game status


Selections
  Help Menu

Contents	-	Calls this Help program.

About...	-	A dab of  ---  StoneAge Software  --- self promotion is in order.


Selections
  Score! Menu Item

This Menu Selection displays the game status / End Of Game Window.


Hints Section
   Playing The Game:  Hints

Most of the characters which appear to be bad - are bad.  Some of the creatures need to be dealt with and others do not.  Some should be avoided altogether.  It should be said here that some actions in this game are dependent on the transfer of some object from the playing character to an obstacle character.  The method for this transfer is generally (but not always) for the player to 'drop' the object so that it becomes available to the obstacle character.

Some (but not all) of the obstacles are listed below.

The Moat:   In the days of yore, it would have been a good practice of any knight to carry with him tools which might allow them to climb over or across  obstacles.  First you must have something to throw, and second, you have  something to hold onto to the object you're throwing.

Ring:   There is a ring which is buried.  The dragon keeps all his treasure close to him it seems.  You must be somewhat persistent in your labor.  No good hole was dug with but one shovel full of dirt moved.

Mirror:  Beware - if you're not protected an adventurer could get killed.  This spot demands the only use for one of the command verbs.

Dragon:  There are no secrets here, except to say that the Dragon is a very fearsome character, and the more weapons you have the better off you are.

There is some element of luck.  Good or Bad.  Having the right weapon or solution does not always inherently solve the obstacle.


Overall Game Terrain Map
    Dragon Quest Terrain Map


Mount Doom Diagram
 	 Mount Doom

This is the home of the Dragon's lair.  Mount Doom was not named so aptly without greater warriors than thou approaching to save the Princess Heather.


Castle #1 Diagram
 	Castle #1

This castle is completely surrounded by a moat.  You must have both the rope and the grappling hook before you may cross.  Don't toss too soon - or you're out of luck.

The Cyclops respects all adversaries, but does not tolerate forwardness.  The Cyclops and Ivan have battled for years for control of the northeastern regions.  Both are strong adversaries, but both do have an Achilles heal.   Ivan likes the herbs, and the Cyclops has a bit of a drinking problem.  This commonality has lead to the dominance of neither, and the smothered anger of both.

There is one final alternative.  It involves a great deal of thrashing, noise and one-on-one combat.  The outcome is never guaranteed, nor impossible.


Castle #2 Diagram
  Castle #2

Once inside,  the player may realize, after a great deal of meditation and thought, that Ivan has a subliminal passion for earthy delights.  Let's just say Ivan is a vegetarian.  The solution to this obstacle is to transfer the object of Ivan's weakness to him.  He'll never bother you again.  If you don't know which weakness we're talking about, just ask, Herb.  Sometimes you have to give up something you need for the long objective.

There is one final alternative.  It involves a great deal of thrashing, noise and one-on-one combat.  The outcome is never guaranteed, nor impossible.


Castle #3 Diagram
 	Castle #3

This castle has lots to offer a traveler who may be short on ways to stay alive.

Everything in this castle has been ransacked.  You must fight your superstitions and take a chance to get the coins, left undisturbed for many years.  Beware - a player could get hurt without the proper protection.


Kings Castle Diagram
  	His Majesty, the King's Castle

If it glitters - you can count on it being worth a lot!  This is the King's castle.  You owe your life and all that you have to the mercy of the King himself.  Were it not for his grace - all would work for him, and no incentive.

The game may be decided right here within these walls.  There are so many ways to get yourself into trouble when you are visiting the King.  Don't get too greedy too soon or you've had it.


Description
  	Haunted Forest

None of the woods in these regions seem to be safe these days.  What  - with people starving, and trying to squat on good land just to eat?  Times are hard everywhere, but these woods are particularly dark.

Wolves run these woods, too.  A player could do better to stay out of these woods, but then sometimes it just can't be helped.  One good word of advice is to stay away from the things that wolves like to prey on - red meat and man.  Sometimes the order gets mixed up, so its best to stay away from the wolves when you happen to possess something that you both were planning on for dinner.

You'll find a small, leather pouch in these woods.  Each traveller needs something to hold onto small valuables, to keep from having to cup them in their hand all the time.


Description
  	The Hilly Region

Two sources of water run from the northwest into this area.  These bodies of water are Stone Creek, and the Red River.   Both are choked with debris being swept downstream from the destruction of the Dragon.  Times used to be that the fishing was great, and the smell of the tress made for good times.

Now,  these two waterways find themselves looking for a "tree-hugger" to save them - uh... but then that's another story...

Columbines, and other hardware needed for the journey into the Dragon's lair can be found here.  Good luck.


Description
  	Box Canyon

There are some great weapons in this area, however this is a box canyon - and you won't be able to talk your way out of this predicament.

You need the help of the only creatures who can improve your situation.  If you don't have your whistle - you're out of luck.


Description
  Dead Lake

This lake maintains a very small, but mighty group of alligators.  They like the herbs which grow so abundantly near this polluted lake.  Ivan likes them, too, but Ivan's never been able to get all of the fingers he stuck out (to retrieve these herbs) back again.  Ivan's just got his books, and that's all he can think about.  If you want the herbs, you'll have to fight for them just like Ivan does.  Its a toss-up as to whether you'll fare any better than Ivan does on a good day.

If you DO get some herbs, Ivan asks you to bring some to him.  Ivan will love you for it.


Your Kick In The Seat Of Your Pants To get You Going
    Start Here

This is where you journey starts.  You're out on your own, and even the author can't help you now.  Your feet are wet, or did you even notice?

Good Luck!

Rango


Command Explanation
This command will ignite the appropriate object - if both the object and something to light it with are both being held.


Command Explanation
This command allows the player to read a book, or other object being held by the player.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the north one move.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the south one move.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the east one move.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the west one move.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the up.


Command Explanation
This command moves the player to the down.


Command Explanation
This command allows the player to open an object that requires it.


Command Explanation
This command is an offensive move toward an opponent.


Command Explanation
This command allows the player to dig, as along as they posses something to dig with.


Command Explanation
This command causes a shrill squeal to be heard if the player is holding a whistle..


Command Explanation
This command is an offensive command, used toward opponents.


Command Explanation
This command is a drastic offensive move toward an opponent..


Command Explanation
This command allows the player to acquire nutrition.


Command Explanation
This command permits the player to take a cool drink of water.


Game Article Value Points
    Playing The Game:  Points

This game has 10 objects which have point values assigned to their possession or current location.  These objects are encountered as you travel through this game and are identified by being prefaced and suffixed by a star ( * ) as in * Herbs *.  These objects are:

First of all, (and certainly most important) - Princess Heather  (500 points),

Gem Studded Sword  (200 points),

Large Diamond Ring  (400 points),

Imperial Stamp  (100 points),

Dragon's Treasure  (400 points),

Columbines  (100 points),

Gold Coins  (200 points),

Herbs  (100 points),

Gem Studded Crown  (300 points),

King's Wooden Staff  (100 points)


This Listbox displays all of the items which a player possesses.  Items which are contained within the pouch are preceeded by >>, and are not visible unless the pouch is opened.  Double-click on an object within this listbox to drop the object.


This Listbox displays game objexts which may or may not have significance within the game.  Double-Click on an object in this listbox to pick the object up.


This area displays the pertinent message to desribe the circumstances which led to this Window.


This box displays the players current or ending score.


This command button will end the game if the user has arrived at the Status Window by any other means than using the Score! menu selection.


This command button will cancel an End-Of_Game menu selection, or will close the Window after using the Score! menu object.  This button is disabled if the player has been ejected from the game.


This box displays the number of points available to the player within the current game.  This value does not change.


This listbox represents the game objects accumulated by the player, which have a game value associated with them.


This listbox represents the game objects which have not been accumulated by the player during the course of the current game.


  Status / Score Window

This Window is can be arrived at by either succumbing to game factor, by requesting the standard game exit or by clicking on the Score! menu item on the top level MDI form.


     Formalities - The Disclaimer

Although you are encouraged to make a backup copy of this software for your own use, you are not allowed to make unlimited copies.  This software is protected by the copyright laws that pertain to computer software.  It is illegal to make copies of this software except for backups.  It is illegal to give this software to another person, or to duplicate the Software by other means, including electronic transmission.  This software contains trade secrets and in order to protect them you may not decompile, reverse engineer, disassemble or otherwise reduce the software to human-perceivable form.  You may not modify, adapt, translate, rent, lease or create derivative works based upon this software or any part thereof without the express written consent of StoneAge Software.

StoneAge Software warrants the original diskettes are free from defects in materials and workmanship, assuming normal use, for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.  If a defect occurs during this period, you may return your faulty disk to StoneAge Software, along with a dated proof of purchase; StoneAge Software will replace it free of charge.  After 30 days, you may obtain a replacement be sending your defective disk and a check for $10 to StoneAge Software.

EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS WARRANTY OF THE ORIGINAL DISKETTES SET FORTH ABOVE, StoneAge Software GRANTS NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, BY STATUTE OR OTHERWISE, REGARDING THE DISKS AND RELATED MATERIALS, THEIR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE, THEIR QUALITY, THEIR MERCHANTABILITY, OR OTHERWISE.

THE LIABILITY OF STONEAGE SOFTWARE UNDER THE WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE AMOUNT PAID BY THE CUSTOMER FOR THE PRODUCT.  IN NO EVENT SHALL StoneAge Software BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR OTHER DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY.

Information in this Help program is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of StoneAge Software.  The software described in this Help Program is furnished under license agreement or nondisclosure agreement.  The software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.  It is against the law to copy the software on any medium except as specifically allowed in the license or nondisclosure agreement.  No part of the Help Program may be reporduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without express written permission of StoneAge Software.

(C) Copyright  StoneAge Software, 1994.  All rights reserved.


StoneAge Software

P.O. Box 621881

Littleton, Colorado 80162-1881

FAX 303-933-4274

AOL:  SASoftware       CompuServe:  74067,2772     Internet:  SASoftware@aol.com

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