I am 46 years old (in 2007) and I have been enjoying EGA Trek since Nels Anderson released version one in the mid 80's. This game is based on the Star Trek universe and had some upgrades.
This game uses the latest 80's EGA technology and is based on a single screen that is chopped into about 8 different segments. These sections represent a galaxy map giving you details of where you have been and also showing the ‘box’ next to you.
The codes are a simple 3 digit number e.g. 312, this means 3 enemies 1 star base and 2 stars.
Basically you have a fresh Enterprise, you select a warp speed and a destination, 'fly into' an area and it then expands into an 8x8 box. So using the above example, the 8x8 area section would contain 3 enemies represented by different colored ships that sort of resemble small Klingon vessels, a star and a star base - there is also a Klingon star base that looks more like an hour glass.
Basically you shoot the enemy - if the enemy is lined up in a basic straight line, use torpedoes; if there are many of them close by but there is a star in the way,
use phasers (about 400 energy for each enemy then press "I" for info and the computer will tell you your remaining strength).
There are 5 skill levels, basically the higher the skill the more enemies and less time to complete the mission. The enemies are also a bit tougher in the higher skills. A single torpedo will cause say 70% damage not 100%
Most of my high scores are in the 2000 mark; this is not too hard to do, but like any game the secret is practice and save often, especially after you have repaired yourself or before you go into an area full of enemies. You may suffer damage and use the repair function to fix all of some of your ship's important features. I always fix life support first, then the computer or warp engines.
I think this a great game, simple to use and importantly no mouse... all commands are on the keyboard.
There is a very good "how to" manual and it is important you read it at least twice - it is in plain English and describes everything quite well. You can simply start the game and use the online help if the manual is not your thing. However, some form of instruction will be beneficial.
While technically EGA Trek is an old DOS game with no 'wiz bang' graphics, it’s one of the few games I have been playing that has lasted almost 20 years – it’s a great game, and also teaches you how to play with some strategy, know when to run and repair, and strike back when 100% healthy. Sound tactics for any game!
