This is the unregistered shareware version 3.0s of a Multiplayer Shell for
Microprose's Masters of Magic v1.2 (commercial). 

The Shell provides for hot-seat play between multiple human and computer
opponents, limited to 2 human and 2 computer opponents in the shareware
version, with up to 4 human opponents supported in the registered version.
This is accomplished via modifications of the saved game files--the Shell
alters no Microprose executables or other files, except for the saved files.
It should thus in no way affect normal single-player play.

The Shell features:

*Mouse-driven interface.

*Modem or email play is possible, provided you have a means of transfering
binary files.

*A special "address the council" sub-turn to allow speaking with all wizards,
whether you've encountered them or not.

*A resign function to allow the computer to take over the position of human
players.

*Automatically transforms a multiplayer game to a normal, single player one
when only one human player is left.

*Import wizards from other games, along with a city and up to nine non-
heroic units into multiplayer games

*A separate saved-game file system for multiplayer games to help keep your
normal slots free.

*Automatic backup on each player's turn to protect against lock-ups.



The only known abnormalities are:

Human players' exploration is shown on the same map--units are still only
seen if they are within range.

Diplomatic relations must be conducted through the "address the council"
sub-turn.

Rampaging monsters and raiders move once per human turn--i.e., twice per turn
for two player, thrice for three player, etc. Most users have actually
claimed to like this, as it makes monsters, raiders, sentries, and
garrisoning much more important elements of the game.

The total number of players is limited to 4, with a fifth "ghost wizard" who
serves as a buffer.

The Shell only allows pure hot-seat play--this means if you get attacked when
its not your turn, the computer will control your units for the duration of
the battle.  It thus becomes strategically important to be in a position to
attack rather than defend, unless you consider the computer a good tactician.


The Shell requires Masters of Magic v1.2, v1.3, or v.131. If you have an
earlier version (the number is in the readme file), you should obtain
Microprose's patch to v1.31 first--you can find this online with the keyword
MICROPROSE.


CHANGES FROM v2.xx.

*Speed increase of 65%.

*No longer necessary to manually exit to DOS between turns--the Shell now
uses hot-keys from within MoM.

*100% compatible with sound (though 45%+ faster if used with effects only).

*Requires only 500 bytes of free upper memory over MoM's normal requirements.

*The Shell now requires the presence of an extended keyboard BIOS to function
properly.

*Email and modem-to-modem play have been greatly facilitated, but still
require the use of third-party communications software.

*Minor bug fixes and additional features.


To use the Shell, unzip it into your MoM directory and follow the directions 
provided in "multi.txt".

*Note: Microprose was in no way involved in its production or distribution,
will not support it or any changes it might make, and is in no way liable for
any damages it might cause.*

To run, enter: M

Documentation: MULTI.TXT