Star Control 2 Manual

Star Control 2 is a classic science fiction action-adventure game developed by Toys for Bob and published by Accolade in 1992. The game combines space exploration, resource gathering, diplomacy, and real-time space combat in an open universe. Players command the starship Vindicator, exploring over 500 star systems, interacting with alien races, and uncovering the mystery of the ancient Ur-Quan hierarchy. Below are key sections covering gameplay, controls, ship specifications, alien species, strategies, and technical information.

Game Overview

Star Control 2 is set in a vast galaxy where humanity is enslaved by the Ur-Quan hierarchy. As captain of the Vindicator, you must explore star systems, gather resources, forge alliances with alien races, and build a fleet to challenge the Ur-Quan. The game features a nonlinear storyline, real-time space combat, and deep strategic elements.

Feature	Description
Exploration	Over 500 star systems with planets, asteroids, and anomalies
Combat	Real-time 2D space battles with unique ship designs
Diplomacy	Interact with 14 alien races through dialogue trees
Resource Gathering	Mine planets for minerals, biological samples, and fuel
Storyline	Nonlinear narrative with multiple endings
Ship Customization	Upgrade Vindicator with new modules and weapons
Time Limit	In-game clock adds urgency to missions
Music & Sound	Iconic soundtrack and voice-acted alien dialogues
Multiplayer	Separate "Super Melee" mode for ship vs. ship combat
Modding Support	Community-created content and updates

Installation & Setup

Installation steps for original DOS version and modern source ports like The Ur-Quan Masters.

1. Original DOS: Insert installation disk, run INSTALL.EXE, follow prompts.
2. The Ur-Quan Masters: Download from sourceforge.net, run installer.
3. Configure controls: Set keyboard, joystick, or gamepad in options menu.
4. Graphics/Sound: Adjust resolution, audio levels for optimal performance.

WARNING! Ensure system meets minimum requirements: 486 CPU, 8MB RAM, Sound Blaster compatible card for DOS version.

Basic Controls

Default keyboard controls for exploration and combat.

1. Exploration Mode: Arrow keys to move, 'Z' to select, 'X' to cancel, 'A' for autopilot.
2. Combat Mode: Arrow keys to thrust/rotate, 'Z' for primary weapon, 'X' for secondary, 'C' for special ability.
3. Menu Navigation: Arrow keys and Enter to select options.
4. Quick Save/Load: F5 to save, F7 to load during exploration.

CAUTION! Save frequently; game does not auto-save during critical missions.

Ship Specifications

• Vindicator: Base ship with modular upgrades (engine, weapons, scanners).
• Allied Ships: Unlockable ships from alien races (e.g., Spathi Eluder, Ur-Quan Dreadnought).
• Fuel Capacity: Upgradable from 50 to 200 units.
• Cargo Hold: Stores minerals, biological samples, alien artifacts.
• Weapon Systems: Lasers, missiles, plasma bolts, special abilities.
• Shield Strength: Varies by ship; can be reinforced.
• Speed/Agility: Engine upgrades improve thrust and turning.
• Special Modules: Landers, probes, communication arrays.

Alien Races

Encounter 14 unique alien species, each with distinct ships, dialogues, and allegiances.

Key Races: Ur-Quan (hierarchical slavers), Spathi (cowardly traders), Syreen (telepathic singers), Chenjesu (crystalline philosophers), Mmrnmhrm (shape-shifting machines).

Diplomacy: Use dialogue trees to gain information, trade resources, or form alliances. Reputation affects interactions; some races are hostile by default.

Resource Management

Gather resources to upgrade ship and support allies.

1. Mining: Send lander to planets; avoid hazards like earthquakes or lightning.
2. Fuel: Refuel at starports or collect from gas giants.
3. Minerals: Copper, uranium, etc., used for ship upgrades.
4. Biological Samples: Trade with aliens for technology or information.

Tip: Balance resource gathering with story progression; time is limited.

Combat System

Real-time 2D space combat with physics-based movement.

1. Select Ship: Choose from unlocked ships before battle.
2. Weapons: Primary (unlimited) and secondary (limited) attacks.
3. Movement: Thrust, rotate, and inertia affect positioning.
4. Special Abilities: Cloaking, teleportation, drones (ship-dependent).
5. Victory Conditions: Destroy enemy ship or force retreat.
6. Super Melee Mode: Direct ship vs. ship combat outside story.

WARNING! Losing combat may result in game over; save before engagements.

Quests & Storyline

Main quest: Defeat Ur-Quan hierarchy; side quests involve alien requests and artifact hunting.

Tips & Strategies

Upgrade engines early for better exploration. Mine resource-rich planets (green/blue). Save before alien dialogues; choices matter. In combat, learn enemy patterns; use terrain (planets, asteroids).

CAUTION! Avoid hostile space until properly armed; some aliens attack on sight.

Technical Support

For The Ur-Quan Masters (open-source version), visit forums at wiki.uqm.stack.nl. Original game support discontinued. Community patches and mods available for modern systems. Ensure graphics and sound drivers are updated.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Game crashes on startup	Compatibility issues	Run in DOSBox or use The Ur-Quan Masters port.
No sound/music	Sound card configuration	Check DOSBox sound settings; ensure BLASTER variable set.
Slow performance	CPU cycles too high	Adjust DOSBox cycles (Ctrl+F11/F12).
Controls not responding	Input configuration error	Reconfigure keys/joystick in options menu.
Graphics glitches	Video mode mismatch	Switch between fullscreen/windowed; update graphics driver.

Reset: Restart game; if persistent, reinstall.

Community: For help, visit Star Control fan forums or The Ur-Quan Masters project site.