capture screen output to a file on disk. Some comm programs simply
take a picture of the current screen. This will not work. You need to
be able to open a file that will record all the output from the screen.
It does not matter if you play in ANSI or text mode. Sample .txt files
are included in this archive.
You need to create the following files using screen capture:
Report.txt listing of all your messages.
Empire.txt Detailed empire report.
Planet.txt Total planet database.
When you first start EC, wait untill you see the message “You have undeleted
reports”. Open the Report.txt file and list the messages non-stop. When
you see “(Press return)” at the bottom of the screen, close the file. You
will then need to capture a Detailed empire report. Name this file
Empire.txt. As before, do a non-stop listing of this information. Close
the file when it is finished being displayed. From the main command menu,
press T for a Total planet database. Open the Planet.txt file and do a
non-stop listing of all planets in the galaxy. When the report is finished,
close the file. You do not need to edit out anything from these reports.
The program will skip the “More” prompt in the middle of a report. These
files must be in the same directory as the ECPLAY.EXE program.
Another thing that really makes ECPLAY v4.0 enjoyable for me is how it manages to stay interesting even after playing it multiple times. Many games feel repetitive after a while, but here, the experience still feels fresh because of the small details and different ways you can approach the gameplay. As you continue playing, you naturally start improving and understanding the mechanics better, which makes everything feel more rewarding. I also appreciate the balance the game maintains—it’s not too difficult, but it’s not too easy either. You can play it casually for a short break or spend longer sessions without getting bored. That flexibility is one of the biggest reasons why I keep coming back to ECPLAY v4.0. Overall, it’s the kind of game that doesn’t just entertain you for a moment, but actually gives you a consistently enjoyable experience every time you play.
