View manual text
Game Play
1
Introduction
2
Game Play
Thank you for purchasing OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON. This
manual explains the game interface, and provides information on hunting the cats that populate the environments.
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Game Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Score Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Camp Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Game Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Your First Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Starting the Game and Entering a Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Looking for Signs of Big Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Getting a Shot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Taking the Shot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Being Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
After a Kill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Becoming an Expert Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Hunting Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
About the Big Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Finding Big Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Avoiding Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Improving Your Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Tips From Expert Hunters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Game Controls Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
This product has been rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. For information about
the ESRB rating, or to comment about the appropriateness of the rating, please contact the
ESRB at 1-800-771-3772.
Playing OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON is straightforwardÑ
pick a weapon, pick a hunting region, and go hunting. The following sections cover the interface and game options in detail. There
are four main screens in BIG CAT SEASON: the Main Menu, the
Score Menu, the Camp Screen and the Game Window.
Main Menu
The Main Menu is where you enter the
game, selecting your weapon of choice and
region to hunt in. Click the mouse on a
menu item while it is highlighted to select
that item.
If you want to get
started hunting
immediately, jump
to the Your First
Hunt section
starting on page 8.
Hunt
Starts a hunt with the selected region and weapon. If no region or
weapon has been selected, you hunt in the default South America
environment, with the default weapon, a Cal.45 Handgun. For a
detailed explanation of game controls and interface, see the Game
Window section starting on page 6. For a quick introduction to the art
of big cat hunting, see page 8.
Choose Weapon
Brings up the Select Weapon screen, where you can choose between
eight weapons. Click on a weapon to select it and a representation will
appear next to the weapons list. Specifications and descriptions for
each of these weapons can be found starting on page 10. When you are
satisfied with your weapon selection, click on Back to return to the
Main Menu.
3
Game Play
Game Play
4
North American Private Hunt
Choose Region
Brings up the Select Region screen, where you can choose to hunt in
one of four distinct regions. Each environment provides a diverse landscape, so you can pick the region that suits your taste for hunting at that
particular time. Each region approximates one or two square miles of
land in a unique, fictional, privately owned hunting area.
South American VIP Hunt
Jaguars and leopards roam these steep slopes. A veritable maze of rock walls makes this exotic Andean
hunting ground extremely challenging. Visibility is
limited by the imposing cliffs, and a hungry cat could
be lurking around every corner!
African Game Reserve
The vast rolling grass of the savannah hides
prides of lions and the occasional cheetah. This
private reserve has little cover, allowing hunting
at the range of your weaponÕs power. However,
you are as visible to your prey as they are to you,
and the tables can easily be turned.
From the heights of these snow covered slopes
you can see a large portion of the surrounding
terrain. The red-hued mountain lion that frequents this section of the Rocky Mountains
should be relatively easy to spot, if it can be lured
from the red rock ridges it prefers.
Score
Brings you to the Score Menu, where you can review and compare the
trophies and kills of all players. For more details, see below.
Quit
Exits the game and returns you to your Windows desktop.
Score Menu
The Score Menu keeps track of kills and accuracy for up to four Hunters.
When you start a Hunt, any kills are added to the currently selected
HunterÕs score.
Asian Jungle Compound
It is always night in the jungle, and the tigers and
panthers of this Asian hunting reserve have the
advantage in the environment. Thick, large-leafed
undergrowth reduces visibility to mere yards. When a
vicious and hungry predator can be lurking behind
every tree and bush, the wise hunter is always ready to fire.
The creators of this game realized that many of the big cats are
threatened or endangered species, and therefore cannot legally be
hunted. The fictional hunting preserves depicted in this game have
no known real-life counterparts. The designers of O PENING
W EEKEND : B IG C AT S EASON do not encourage or endorse the illegal
hunting of these magnificent animals.
Delete Hunter
Return to Main Menu
5
Game Play
Game Play
6
Camp Screen
You can bring up the Camp Screen at any time during play by pressing
the Esc key. This exits your current hunt, but any cats you have killed
are added to your score. From the Camp Screen you can review your
score, change weapons or hunt in a new region. Hit the sack to start a
new mission or traditional hunt, or End the hunting trip to return to the
Main Menu.
Game Window
Scroll Through Trophies
Return to Main Menu
If no Hunter has been selected, when you start a Hunt, you are prompted to enter a name and that name is added to the list.
To add a new hunter to the list, click on an Empty slot, type your name
in the box on the right and press Enter. To delete a Hunter from the list,
select a name, then click on the red Delete symbol on the right side of
the screen.
To review the scores for a Hunter, click on a name in the Select Hunter
box, and click on Show Score. This brings up a screen giving that
hunterÕs Total Kills. By clicking on the right and left arrow buttons
below the Trophies box, you can scroll through the different animals
that hunter has killed. A Description of each is given to the right of the
catÕs representation, along with the Location where that animal was
shot. Its weight and the size of its head are given so you can compare
the sizes of your trophies.
To clear that HunterÕs score, click on the Reset Score button at the bottom of the screen.
When you are done reviewing that HunterÕs score, click on Back to
return to the Main Menu.
The Game Window shows you the world through the hunterÕs eyes. As
you look and move around the region, the window view moves accordingly. The controls in OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON are very
simple. The following sections cover the various actions and the keys to
control those actions. As well, in the frame surrounding the view, many
of the most common key commands are described and labeled. A comprehensive listing of game controls can be found in the Game Controls
Summary on page 16. To exit the Game Window and return to the Main
Menu, press Esc at any time.
Looking Around
You can use either the mouse or the keyboard to look around. The
PageUp and PageDown keys (9 and 3 on the numeric keypad) allow
you to look up or down. The left and right arrow keys (4 and 6 on the
numeric keypad) turn you left and right. If you use the mouse, moving
it away from you shifts the view up, and toward shifts the view down,
while moving the mouse to either side turns you in that direction.
An aiming reticle (small yellow crosshairs) appears in the center of the
screen. Adjust your aim by using these same controls. If you aim for an
area out of your weaponÕs range, the crosshairs turn red.
Binoculars give you the ability to see further than is possible with the naked
eye. Using the binoculars, you can spot animals from great distances. You can
raise the binoculars to your eyes by pressing F5. Use the + and - keys on the
keyboard to zoom in and out. Lower the binoculars by pressing F5 again.
7
Game Play
Your First Hunt
Movement
You can use either E, D, W and R or the
arrow keys (8, 2, 4 and 6 on the numeric
keypad) to move forward and backward
and turn left and right. To move in the
direction you are facing, press and hold E
or the up arrow key. To move opposite the
direction you are facing, press D or the
down arrow key.
Since you move relative to the direction
you are facing, you can change direction by
shifting where you are looking.
Occasionally you will need to move quickly,
like when avoiding a charging panther! When
you need to run, press and hold down either
the A or Shift key while moving. You can
also jump, to see over rises and other obstacles, by pressing T or Home (7 on the
numeric keypad).
The best way to
control the virtual
hunter is by using a
combination of
keyboard and mouse.
Place one hand on the
mouse and your other
hand on the arr ows
on the keyboard. Use
the up and down
arrows to move
forward and
backward while using
the mouse to turn and
look up and down. It
takes some practice to
get used to this
coordinated
movement, but it
allows you to move
and aim ver y quickly.
Big cats tend to have excellent hearing, and are alert to sudden movements. You can sneak around, moving slower and more quietly, by pressing and holding the Space Bar while moving. You can also lower your
profile and improve your chances of sneaking up on a cat by pressing the
End key (1 on the numeric keypad), which lowers you into a crouch.
Hold down this key to remain crouched.
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with each shot. When you run out of ammunition, you must exit the
hunt (hit Esc to return to the Main Menu) and select your weapon and
region for a new hunt.
Each weapon has a different range and ammunition, see the Weapons
section beginning on page 10 for detailed information.
Depending on the type of weapon you are using, it may take more
than one shot to drop a big cat. Take your time and choose your
shots wisely. DonÕt be hesitant to use the scope if you are taking
aim at a distant target.
If you are equipped with a long-range weapon, you may want to use a
scope to improve your aim. Big Cat can be hard to see at greater distances.
To use the scope, first raise the weapon and then press F1 or the Right
mouse button. Use the + and - keys to zoom the scope appropriately. To
remove the scope, press F1 again. Note that you cannot lower your
weapon while looking through the scopeÑyou must first remove the
scope, and you cannot use the scope while moving.
Your First Hunt
This section is provided to give you a quick start in hunting with OPENING
WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON. For details on options and techniques presented in this section, see the appropriate section of the manual.
Starting the Game and Entering a Hunt
Using a Weapon
When you first enter the hunting region, your weapon is raised. You can
lower your weapon at any time by pressing F4. You can raise the
weapon at any time by pressing F4 again.
To fire a raised weapon, press the Ctrl key or press the left mouse button. The weapon fires once for each time you press the key. In the
upper left corner of the Game Window is the ammo counter. This
shows how much ammunition is left in your weapon and decreases
1. Start OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON by clicking the appropriate icon in the Opening Weekend program group of the Windows
Start menu.
2. From the Main Menu, select the weapon you want to use, and the
region you want to hunt in.
3. Click on Hunt to enter the selected region.
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Your First Hunt
Looking for Signs of Big Cats
1. Once you are in the environment, slowly turn in a circle, looking for
animals in the immediate vicinity. If you spot one, jump ahead to
the Getting a Shot section.
2. Notice the wind direction and move into or at right angles to the
wind, looking for signs of big cats (usually droppings). If you find
any signs, note their location and continue moving perpendicularly
to the wind until you find other signs of cats. DonÕt forget to use
PageUp / PageDown or the mouse to look up and down.
3. Once youÕve found a second sign of a cat, look around for the last
one. Imagine a line between your current location and that sign. The
line indicates a possible catÕs path.
4. You can follow that path, looking for more signs of the cat, or you
can find a suitable spot upwind from the path to sit and wait for a
cat. If you decide to wait, crouch down, put on camo, or hide
behind foliage to avoid scaring the cat. Placing bait (F2) will draw
any nearby cats to your location. Watch your back!
Getting a Shot
If you have
dif ficulty
finding a cat,
you can press M
to enable
animal pointers.
Arrows will
appear in the
sky above the
locations of any
animals in the
r egion.
1. Once you spot a cat you must get close enough
for your current weapon to hit it. See the
Weapons section starting on page 10 for actual
ranges.
2. Observe the foliage around the animal and
determine the best place to take a shot, whether
it is from a nearby ridge, a tree, or simply a few
yards closer. Keep the wind direction in mind.
3. Approach the cat in stages, occasionally stopping
to watch its reaction. Be prepared for it to charge.
4. When the animal is within range, jump to the
Taking the Shot section.
Becoming an Expert Hunter
Taking the Shot
1. When the animal is within range, raise
your weapon (F4) and optionally use the
scope (F1 or Right-click).
2. Position the sights or cross hairs on the
catÕs center of mass, generally in the
chest region. Use the mouse when aiming to be more precise.
3. Fire (Ctrl or Left-click) when you have a
clean shot, but be ready to quickly adjust
your aim and shoot again to ensure a kill.
10
Remember that you
can hold down the
Shift key and
quickly move
backward as a big
cat charges you.
However, skilled
hunters stand in
place, shoot
straight, and drop
the lion without
running backward.
Being Defensive
1. As soon as you are perceived as a threat the cat will charge you. Be
prepared to send a hail of lead his direction.
2. Occasionally when the cat takes a shot, he reacts to the hit by varying his approach and running sideways for a bit. Be prepared for
this action and keep him in your sights.
3. If you still have the bait, quickly backpedal and drop the bait in
front of you. If the cat is not sufficiently enraged he will grab the
bait and retreat, offering you several free shots.
4. Continue shooting until the cat dies.
After a Kill
The other cats in the environment remain active even after you have
killed one. Keep alert or you may be attacked while admiring your kill!
After killing an animal, continue hunting the other big cats in the region
until you run out of ammo. When your ammunition is used up, or you
tire of hunting, press Esc to bring up the Camp Screen. (See page 5 for
more information.)
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Becoming an Expert Hunter
Becoming an Expert Hunter
Becoming an Expert Hunter
049 Side-by-side
Damage:
The keys to becoming an expert hunter are simple: know your weapons
and equipment, know your prey, develop patience and practice your aim.
Weapons
There are eight weapons to choose from in BIG CAT SEASON. Below are
given details on the weapons, so you can judge their relative effectiveness.
.45 Cal Handgun
Damage:
Light
Range: Short
It takes a lot of nerve to hunt a panther with only a handgun. You need
to be close, accurate or lucky to take down your target, preferably all
three. Be ready to run for your life if your first shot doesnÕt kill!
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Very High
Range: Short
A classic shotgun, this weapon packs an awesome punch. Two breachloading barrels give the gun its power, but its limited range means you
have to get dangerously close to a big cat in order to use it.
Crossbow
Damage:
High
Range: Long
Modern crossbows easily have the range and stopping
power of a common rifle. Reload time is slow in comparison, but cats are unlikely to spook at the sound,
allowing you to fire at multiple targets.
Longbow
Damage:
Light
Range: Short
9mm Rifle
Damage:
High
Range: Long
This is a high powered, bolt-action rifle with considerable range and
stopping power.
The ultimate test of stalking skill is to hunt with a long bow. Range is
limited by the strength in your arms, forcing you to get very close to
your target. In addition, you are allowed to wear camouflage while bow
hunting, making the stalking process easier.
30-30 Lever-Action Rifle
Damage:
Medium
Range: Medium
This gunÕs cartridge has less powder,
and as a result, fires a bullet with less
force, distance and accuracy than the 9mm, making the hunt more
of a challenge.
Shotgun
Damage:
High
Range: Medium
A lightweight, low recoil gun, with a smooth bore. Shotguns are loaded
with a cartridge containing a large slug for lion hunting. Although the
range isnÕt as great, the bullet has a great deal of force behind it.
Compound Bow
Damage:
Medium
Range: Medium
Compound bows still require a great deal of strength and
stealth, but their power and range have been increased by a
system of pulleys. In addition, you are allowed to wear
camouflage while bow hunting, making the stalking
process easier.
13
Becoming an Expert Hunter
Hunting Accessories
OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON provides several accessories for
you to take on your virtual hunt. Most of these items are always with
you; you do not have to select them before you begin hunting. However,
you can choose not to use these items if you want to make your hunt
more challenging.
Binoculars
Binoculars give you the ability to see further than possible with the
naked eye. Using the binoculars, you can spot cat traces and even live
cats from great distances. Press F5 to look through your binoculars. Use
the + and - keys on the keyboard to zoom in and out. You cannot move
while looking through the binoculars.
Bait
Most cats spend a significant amount of time searching for food. The
concept of bait relies upon the catÕs hunger, drawing him toward the
tantalizing smell of raw meat. Dropping bait in a large clearing and
positioning yourself upwind is a great way to attract and attack a cat.
However, the baitÕs smell is compelling enough to attract cats in all
directions, so be sure to watch your back!
Wind Indicator
The direction of the wind is always shown by the indicator in
the upper right of the hunting window. Use this indicator to
help you determine the correct angle to approach a cat. Note that if the
wind is blowing toward the cat it will be able to smell you from longer
distances, while having the wind blow toward you will impede the ability of the cat to smell you, even at close range.
Scent Mask
If you need to approach a cat more closely, but the wind is unfavorable,
you can use this chemical which masks your scent by pressing F3. This
Becoming an Expert Hunter
14
usually prevents a cat from noticing you, but they may still spot you if you
move or make a lot of noise. Keep in mind that the chemical used wears
off quickly. A message at the top of the screen notifies you when it fades.
Camouflage
Camouflage helps you conceal yourself in the natural terrain around
you. Using camouflage, you are all but invisible to the keen eyes of the
cat. However, since it is illegal to wear camouflage while hunting with a
gun, camo is only available when bow hunting. If you are using a bow,
press F12 to suit up in camo.
About the Big Cats
All the big cats are aggressive creatures, prone to protecting their home
turf from challenging threats-- such as a human wandering around within
their territory. The cats you will be hunting are extremely dangerous animals, exceptionally vicious for their species. The type of cats you may
enounter varies by the individal hunting reserve.
Leopards and Jaguars
The leopard, panthera pardus, and the jaguar,
panthera onca, are close cousins of one another. Their distinctive pattern of large dappled
rosettes is unmistakable. Both can be found in a variety of environments, from mountains to woodlands
to swamps. They are the largest cats in the Americas,
ranging from two to four hundred
pounds. Leopards tend to be slightly
larger and slower, with a yellowish
cast to their fur. The night-loving
jaguar has more of a reddish tone, and is much
more aggressive, a fierce and proficient hunter.
Lions and Cheetahs
The african lion, panthera leo, has symbolized leadership and nobility
throughout history. Tending to gather in groups of several cats, called
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Becoming an Expert Hunter
prides, the females of the species perform
the majority of the hunting, while the
majestic, dark-maned male lions protect their territory from intruders. They
can be extremely hostile to invasion, since
incursions from jackals and other scavengers are a
part of everyday life on the
savannah. Even other large cats will flee when
the lions approach.
Their companions on the grasslands of Africa, the
cheetahs, are quite different. Acinonyx jubatus is
famed as the fastest land animal, capable of reaching
speeds of up to 70mph for short distances. Built for speed, not combat,
the graceful cheetah is more likely to avoid than to confront
strangers in its territory, such as humans with guns.
However, hunger can overcome this
native caution, and an unwary hunter
being stalked by this amazing creature
has little chance of escaping.
Becoming an Expert Hunter
16
called, tend to have longer legs, and
thicker fur than their South American
counterparts. Many are almost black in
hue, allowing them to be nearly invisible in
the depths of the forest. When seen up close,
the panther's fur still shows the rosette pattern
of the leopard, but due to the cat's aggressive
nature, you'll be too busy firing to admire its beauty!
Mountain Lions
The felis concolor is the most common large cat in North America, and
its preferred habit gives it its name, the mountain lion. Its fur tends to
be red or brown in hue, to match the rocks of the terrain in its area. Much smaller than the big cats of
other continents, the mountain lion is a proficient
hunter, but tends to shy away from humans and other
threats unless pressed. When angered, it lays its ears back
and pounces in a manner not unlike an overgrown housecat.
Finding Big Cats
Tigers and Panthers
The largest members of the cat family, the tiger, panthera tigris can
weigh over seven hundred pounds, almost twice the weight of most
other species. The remaining tigers in the wild can be found near the
edges of the jungles of Asia, where the play of light and shadow renders
their striking orange and black stripes an effective camouflage. Secure
in their place at the top of the food chain, tigers are not highly aggressive hunters, despite their man-killer reputation. A certain somnolence
and their solitary lifestyle make them easier targets than more active
and hostile big cats. That said, an angered tiger is a fearsome power best
avoided.
Sharing the jungle darkness with the
tigers are the panthers pardus orientalis members of the same family as the leopards. Panthers, as the Asian variety are
At the start of each hunt, your chosen region is populated with cats of
various sizes. The animals all behave realistically, stopping to eat, drink,
or simply roam around the landscape. While wandering around the
region, take note of where you have seen cat droppings to determine a
likely path that the cat may be following. Keep in mind that there are
several animals in each areaÑstay alert to avoid having one cat take you
by surprise while you are stalking another. With their keen senses, the
cats are quite capable of detecting your presence, even if you do not
detect theirs. A hunter caught unaware is easily killed.
17
Becoming an Expert Hunter
Becoming an Expert Hunter
Avoiding Detection
Tips From Expert Hunters
One of the keys to successful hunting is patience. It is much easier to
bulls-eye a cat from twenty feet than twenty yards. If you are using a
weapon with a severely limited range, the art of moving stealthily is vital.
¥
Big cats can notice slight movements and generally perceive sudden
movement as a distinct threat. Your best bet is to observe from a distance with the binoculars. Staying on high ground will help you spot
distant cats and identify the best path to approach them. When moving
in for the kill, try to use natural terrain to block the animalÕs sight until
you get close enough for the kill. You can dodge among rock outcroppings, trees and bushes when closing in on your prey, but take care, it is
difficult to keep track of where the animal is, and you donÕt want to be
surprised by a lion!
¥
Sudden and sharp noises will alert nearby cats to your presence.
Unfortunately, the environment in OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON
tends to compel you to move around. Move slowly, or even sneak (hold
down the Space Bar while moving) when you know there are cats in
the area.
¥
If a cat realizes you are there, be prepared for it to attack you. In a close
range battle, the odds are not in your favor, so if a cat charges you, and
you arenÕt sure of a shot, you can try running away (hold down the A or
Shift key while moving). Some big cats can move with remarkable speed
though, if they are riled. You can try throwing down bait (F2) to distract it
while you make your getaway.
Improving Your Accuracy
The only way to improve at anything is to practice. If you really want to
work on your aim, shoot at the occasional deer, or other small targets in
the environment, first with, then without a scope. When you can bullseye a fleeing deer at the limit of your weaponÕs range, without a scope,
youÕll know youÕve become an expert marksman.
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You may wish to change into camo (F12), or apply chemicals to
mask your scent (F3) to avoid detection when stalking a cat.
Avoiding open areas where you can be easily spotted by your prey
is also recommended.
Depending on the type of weapon you are using, it may take more
than one shot to drop a cat. Take your time and choose your shots
wisely. DonÕt be hesitant to use the scope if you are taking aim at a
distant target.
When cats are eating, they stand still, use this to your advantage.
If you drop bait between you and the cat it usually attracts the cat to
your location. Be careful however, for while the bait is more of a
tempting snack, the cat will still attack you if you remain too close
to the bait.
Watching wind direction is very important. Get used to checking the
indicator often, especially when approaching a cat.
If you have difficulty finding cats, you can press M to enable cat
pointers. Arrows will appear in the sky above the locations of cats.
19
Game Controls Summary
BIG CAT SEASON Game Controls Summary
Key Command
Action(s)
E or Up Arrow or NumPad 8
Move Forward
D or Down Arrow or NumPad 2 Move Backward
W or Left Arrow or NumPad 4 Turn Left
R or Right Arrow or NumPad 6 Turn Right
S / F or < / >
Sidestep Left / Right
T or Home or NumPad 7
Jump
End or NumPad 1
Crouch (hold to stay crouched)
A or Shift + Direction
Run
Space Bar + Direction
Sneak
F4
Raise / Lower Weapon
Ctrl
Fire weapon (weapon must be raised)
F1
Raise / Lower Scope (weapon must be raised)
F5
Raise / Lower Binoculars
+/Zoom Binoculars and Scope
Page Up or NumPad 9
Look Up
Page Down or NumPad 3
Look Down
F2
Drop Bait
F3
Mask Scent
F12
Wear Camouflage (must be hunting with bow)
M
Locate Big Cats
F6
Take Picture of Current Screen
F7
Change Display Resolution
Esc
Quit Hunt and Return to Main Menu
Mouse Command
Move Left
Move Right
Move Away From You
Move Toward You
Left Button
Right Button
Action(s)
Moves View / Aim Left
Moves View / Aim Right
Moves View / Aim Up
Moves View / Aim Down
Fires Weapon (weapon must be raised)
Raise / Lower Scope (weapon must be raised)
Troubleshooting
20
Troubleshooting
This section provides information that should help you solve some common technical problems.
System Requirements
Please be sure your system meets the following requirements:
¥Pentium 233 MHz IBM PC or compatible (266MHz Recommended)
¥32 MB of RAM (64 MB Recommended)
¥Windows¨ 95 or 98 - NOTE: This game cannot be played on
Windows¨ NT systems. Multitasking is not recommended when
playing OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON.
¥An uncompressed hard drive with 60MB free
¥4X CD-ROM drive or faster (8X Recommended)
¥16-Bit Windows compatible sound device
¥16-Bit Color and PCI Bus 3D graphics accelerator (2nd Generation
PCI Bus or AGP 3D accelerator Recommended)
In addition to the basic system requirements, the game requires that
DirectX 6.1 be installed to your hard drive. The option to install
DirectX 6.1 appears during the game installation. At the end of installation, you are prompted to register BIG CAT SEASON electronically.
Copy Protection
In order to play OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON, the original game
CD must be in the CD-ROM drive.
Uninstalling the Game
To uninstall the game, select that option from the Autorun menu, or choose
Settings from the Start menu, and select Control Panel. In the Control Panel,
select Add/Remove Programs, left-click on OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT
SEASON, and click on the Add/Remove button. The game and all of its components are removed from your hard drive, except for your saved scores.
21
Troubleshooting
Sound and Video Cards
Some sound and/or video cards are not supported by Windows and
DirectX. If you do not have one of the following Sound or Video cards,
the game may not work.
DirectX Supported Sound Cards: Banshee, Creative Labs, Sound
Blaster, Yamaha
DirectX Supported Video Cards: ATI, Diamond, Matrox, NVIDA, S3,
Voodoo
Graphics Problems
If you are having difficulties with the graphics in the game (blurred or
pixelated textures, shadows, colors, etc.) first be sure that your graphics
card meets the minimum system requirements, and that it is DirectX 6.1
compatible. If you meet all requirements, but the graphic glitches persist, you may not have the latest drivers for your card. These can often
be downloaded directly from the manufacturerÕs website, or by contacting their technical support.
If your graphics and gameplay are slow, but otherwise fine, reducing the
screen resolution by toggling through the choices (400x300, 512x384,
640x480, and 800x600) with the F7 key, usually solves the problem. If
you continue to have difficulty running the game satisfactorily, check to
make sure your system fulfills the minimum requirements.
Troubleshooting
22
DirectX Disclaimer and License
OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON utilizes MicrosoftÕs DirectX sound
and video drivers. DirectX is a programming tool created by Microsoft,
and the installation of DirectX may cause video problems and system
anomalies with computers using video drivers that arenÕt DirectX compliant. DirectX is a Microsoft product, and as such, The Learning
Company cannot be responsible for changes that might occur to your
computer system due to its installation. For DirectX related problems
that cannot be fixed by updating to your video cardÕs latest Windows
driver set, you must contact either Microsoft or the manufacturer of
your video card for further technical support or service.
Microsoft retains all intellectual property rights to DirectX. The user has
been granted a limited license to use DirectX with Microsoft operating
system products.
Verifying DirectX Video/Sound Card Drivers
To verify that your sound and video drivers are DirectX 6.1 certified,
follow these steps: Click on the Windows Start button (usually found in
the lower-left corner of your screen). Click on Run. In the open field
type the command: C:\program files\directx\setup\dxinfo.exe then click on
OK. Make sure all drivers say Certified next to them.
If any of your drivers are not DirectX certified you should contact the
hardware manufacturer and see if they have certified DirectX 6.1 drivers.
Reinstalling Windows Video Drivers
DirectX 6.1 Setup
This game requires DirectX 6.1 or higher. If you do not have DirectX
6.1, it can be installed or reinstalled from the CD. Installing DirectX 6.1
is an option when installing the game. It can also be installed by exploring the game CD, and opening the DirectX folder. Double click on
Dxsetup.exe to start the DirectX 6.1 install. Using either the Install DirectX
6 button from the Autorun menu or Dxsetup.exe, you can install DirectX
6.1, reinstall DirectX 6.1, test your drivers certification, or reinstate
your previous audio and video drivers.
If you find that there is a problem with your display after you have
installed DirectX 6.1 you can reinstall your old video drivers by following these instructions: Click on the Windows Start button and click on
Run. In the open field type the command: C:\program
files\directx\setup\dxsetup.exe then click on OK. Click on the Restore
Display Drivers button. This may require that you have the disk containing your original drivers.
23
Troubleshooting
Contacting Technical Support
If you are having problems, please consult the rest of this Troubleshooting section before contacting The Learning Company Technical
Support. WeÕve put many of the solutions to the most common problems in this area. If you are sure that you meet the OPENING WEEKEND:
BIG CAT SEASON system requirements and the game still does not run,
please make certain that you are using the latest drivers for your system.
Troubleshooting
¥
¥
24
Version of Windows or Macintosh operating system.
If you are having a printing problem specify the name, make, and
model of the printer you are using. Example: HP Deskjet 870 CSI
Check our Web site, http://www.learningco.com, for answers to frequently asked questions and other technical support information. Go to the
Support section to get FAQs, downloads, patches, and other useful files.
Technical Support Call Center
The Learning Company technical support department is available to
assist you with any issues regarding the product you purchased.
Technical support can be reached via e-mail, U.S. mail, fax, or phone.
The technical staff supports the entire family line of products from The
Learning Company.
24 Hour Automated 800 Support: (800) 409-1497
This service allows our customers to find commonly asked questions to
products and their answers free of charge.
When contacting technical support, please provide as much information
as you can about your computer system and the problem you are experiencing. The following information is necessary to providing you with
technical assistance:
Main Technical Support Number: (319) 247-3333
Technical support representatives are available between 9:00AM and
9:00PM Central Standard time, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). Please be at your computer when you call.
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
¥
Your first and last name.
Phone number, fax number, mailing address and e-mail address.
Name of the product, version, platform and format. Example: OPENING
WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON/version 1.0/Windows 95/98/CD-ROM
A brief description of your problem.
Type of computer including name brand. (Mac or PC) If you cannot
find the name of your computer say IBM PC Clone. Example: Dell
PC Pentium 200 MHz
Amount of memory. Example: 64 MB of RAM
Size of hard disk. Example: 12 GB hard disk
Type of video card. Example: ATI Matrox Milenia 8 MB video card
Type of CD-ROM Drive. Example: 4x Panasonic CD drive
Type of DVD-ROM. Example: 2nd generation Phillips DVD-ROM drive
Type of Sound Card. Example: Creative Labs 16 bit sound card
If using a network please mention the type of network being used.
Modem type and speed. Example: US Robotics 56K Flex internal modem
24 Hour Technical Support Fax Line: (319) 395-9600
Online Technical Support
Technical Support E-mail Address: [email protected]
Online Technical Library: www.learningco.com/support
If the game about which you are inquiring has been out for more than
90 days, youÕll want to visit the Web site to be sure you are running the
latest version of the game before contacting Technical Support.
Mailing Address
The Learning Company
1700 Progress Drive
PO Box 100
Hiawatha, IA 52233-0100 USA
Attn: OPENING WEEKEND: BIG CAT SEASON
Note: When corresponding via mail please include the information
requested above.
QUESTIONS OR PROBLEMS?
25
Credits
Credits
ManMachine Team
AI and Scripting:
Parser:
3D Engine:
2D Art:
Seth Robinson
Volker Kleiper
JC Lotter
Justin Martin, Zak Donelly,
Paul Adarr
3D-Models:
Cabbott Sanders
3D-Weapons:
DUB Media Inc.
Level Design:
Paul Addarr, Andreas Vahsen
Hunting Consultant:
Curtis La Bansky
Project Manager, Game Design: Andreas Vahsen
Special Thanks to:
Steve Schaefer,Kelly Marshall and
Benjamin Milstead and Macmillan
Digital Publishing.
The Learning Company
Executive Producer:
Andrew Pedersen
Producer:
Jeff M. Pena
Production Assistant:
David L. Yen
Multimedia Production:
Mario Alves
Data Manager:
Jeremy Campbell
Install Programmer:
Deirdra Hendricks
Test Manager:
David Costa
Test:
Adam Rosen, Jeff Sterzl
Manual Author:
Anathea Lopez
Executive Vice President:
Chuck Kroegel
Vice President of R&D:
Jan Lindner
Senior Vice President Marketing: Caryn Mical
Marketing Manager/Director:
Todd Sitrin
PR Director:
Karen "KC" Conroe
Support Personnel:
Andrea Akmenkains, Sarah Taylor
Layout and DTP:
Epicentric
Troubleshooting
If you encounter disk or system related problems
you can reach us through several methods:
Telephone (319) 247-3333 between 9:00am and 9:00pm Central Standard time, Monday through
Friday, holidays excluded, Tech Support Fax: (319) 395-9600 Attn: Technical Support, calling our
automated services at (800) 409- 1497, Filling out our online support form at:
http://store.learningco.com/dev/support_form.asp (or the gameÕs web page, which is listed in the
manual), Email: [email protected] (please list the gameÕs name as the messageÕs subject), You
can also write to us at The Learning Company, Attn: Technical Support, 1700 Progress Drive, PO Box
100, Hiawatha, IA 52233-0100 USA (include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for reply).
THE LEARNING COMPANY LIMITED WARRANTY
The Learning Company and its parent company and all affiliates warrants that the diskette(s) on which the
enclosed program is recorded will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 90 days
from the date of purchase. If within 90 days of purchase the media prove defective in any way, you may
return the media to The Learning Company, Attn: Returns, 1700 Progress Drive, PO Box 100, Hiawatha,
IA 52233-0100 USA. Please include a copy of your sales receipt, packaging slip or invoice, along with
a brief note of explanation as to why you are returning your program.
THE LEARNING COMPANY MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT
TO THE SOFTWARE PROGRAM RECORDED ON THE CD OR DISKETTE OR THE GAME DESCRIBED IN
THIS RULE BOOK, THEIR QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE PROGRAM AND GAME ARE SOLD ÒAS IS.Ó THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THEIR
QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE IS WITH THE BUYER. IN NO EVENT WILL THE LEARNING COMPANY BE
LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY
DEFECT IN THE PROGRAM OR GAME, OR FOR LOST DATA RESULTING IN ANY WAY FROM USE OF THE
PROGRAM OR GAME, IN ALL CASES EVEN IF THE LEARNING COMPANY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. (SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.) THE LEARNING COMPANY FURTHER EXCLUDES
AND DISCLAIMS, AND THE LICENSEE HEREBY WAIVES, ANY AND ALL PROVISIONS EITHER PRESENTLY
EXISTING OR AS AMENDED IN THAT CERTAIN INTERNATIONAL SALE OF GOODS CONVENTION OF
JANUARY 1, 1988, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, THEREIN.
The enclosed software program and this manual are copyrighted. All rights are reserved. This manual may
not be copied, photographed, reproduced, or translated or reduced to any electrical medium or machinereadable form, in whole or in part, without prior written consent from The Learning Company. The program
accompanying this manual may be copied, by the original purchaser only, as necessary for use on the
computer for which it was purchased. Any persons reproducing any portion of this book for any reason, in
any media, shall be guilty of copyright violation and subject to the appropriate civil or criminal action at the
discretion of the copyright.
Copyright 1999 TLC Multimedia Inc. and its affiliates and its licensors, and ManMachine Games. All
rights reserved. Opening Weekend: Big Cat Season is a trademark of TLC Multimedia Inc. Windows is
a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other
trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders. Use of this product
is subject to the acceptance of the license agreement and limited warranty contained inside this
package.
Made in USA.
Not for distribution in the European Union or the United Kingdom.