Master of Orion: Original Version
Developed by Simtex and released in September of 1993 for IBM PC MS-DOS 3.0, Master of Orion is a sci-fi turn-based strategy game based on exploration and conflict in the pursuit of deep-space colonization and galactic conquest. Master of Orion would spawn two sequels (MoO2 and MoO3) as well as the medieval-fantasy 4X, Master of Magic.
In Master of Orion the player assumes the role of Immortal Emperor of their chosen civ. From their home planet, it is the Emperor's task to expand their influence throughout the galaxy by means of technological advancement, colonization of star systems, trade, diplomacy, infiltration and either elimination of or unification with interstellar rivals.
Complicating matters, rival leaders (up to five) act based on their rolled personalities and objectives; and revolts, discoveries and disasters can randomly roll as well.
Master of Orion 1 User Interface
The user interface of Master of Orion is mouse- and hotkey-driven with hotkey combos. Spartan in its simplicity, the UI is clearer, more functional and more responsive than cRPG equivalents of the era, such Darklands UI.
A precursor to Expanding Help in Master of Magic, F1 calls up info-panels that explain the function of each aspect of the UI.
The main viewport or control screen is dominated by a randomly-generated, 8-way scrolling Galaxy Map that shows star systems, nebulae and moveable starships, whose "flight-path" and ETA (in turns) is indicated when a destination is assigned them.
The sidepanel allows for control of planetary production through five ratio sliders whereas the bottom panel consists of function buttons that call up ship construction control, fleet tracking, planetary data, race relations and research.
As with most MS-DOS games of the early 90s, MoO is presented at 4:3 aspect ratio (320 x 240px), and in 8 bit color depth. As can be seen from the UI above and portraits below, the graphics are simple but serviceable.
Master of Orion 1 Races
Master of Orion features 10 player-commandable races each of which receives stat bonuses and penalties based on their nature.
Master of Orion Technical
Master of Orion was distributed on 4x 3.5" 1.44MB HD diskettes and extracts and installs to hard disk drive via Brian Reynolds' MicroProse Hard Disk Installation Utility v1.17, Lib 4.32. The install size is 11 megs and consists of 45 files.
Master of Orion requires an i80386SX-16 MHz CPU and 575K of free conventional memory (588,800 bytes) and 700K of XMS memory.
Master of Orion displays in 256-color VGA 320x200.
Master of Orion audio supports AdLib, Sound Blaster, Sound Blaster Pro, Pro Audio Spectrum/Plus/16, General MIDI, Roland MT-32 and Roland LAPC-1.
Master of Orion Manual: 70 pages.
Master of Orion Credits
Master of Orion was designed by Steve Barcia, produced by Jeff Johannigman, and programmed by Steve Barcia, Marcia Barcia and Ken Burd.
Master of Orion was drawn by Maria Barcia, Jeff Dee, George Purdy, Frank Vivirito and Bill Willingham.
Master of Orion music was composed by Dave Govett and produced by George Alistair Sanger aka The Fat Man.
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