Elite / Frontier How to Download and Play Frontier 2

[Saboteur]

I'm sure someone will have a simple answer to this - I am a complete idiot when it comes to Windows, downloads, applications, files and words ending with v.1.04

I would like to play Frontier 2 on my Notebook. I don't have the option for buying a disc as there is no disc-drive on my Notebook so really need to download a version which runs without any fuss.

I have tried downloading a shareware version which is free for 30 days. What I want is to download the full game directly to my notebook and then play the game without having to do anything else. I couldn't run the shareware version and was hoping you guys could help me get to play the game again. I had it on disc for the Amiga CD32 but I no longer have the console.

 

[gunbladelad]

Have you tried downloading a program called "DOSBox"?

You'll require it in order to run Frontier : Elite 2 on any version of Windows since 98 (that is, unless you're a technical wizard, which you've already said you're not).

Simply set up DOSBox so it's pointed towards your FE2 folder (I understand there are various GUI launchers for DOSBox - perhaps someone else can point you to a good one, as I still use the old fashioned way) and run Frontier Elite 2.

For getting both those programs onto your notebook, if you've got an internet connection for it, then simply download them. If not, then use a USB pendrive to copy them over and you'll be good to go.

I believe the Shareware version does have the fee still, but most people probably haven't paid for it. Don't expect the program to suddenly stop working or nagging you to pay up - you shouldn't really expect the police to break down your door for not paying either. Having said that, each payment that goes through does let Frontier know that there's still active interest in the series.

 

[DraQ]

(I understand there are various GUI launchers for DOSBox - perhaps someone else can point you to a good one, as I still use the old fashioned way)

I simply autoexec Norton Commander on DOSBox startup. Don't really see much need for using anything more elaborate.

If you don't have NC, there are freeware clones available like Dos Navigator.

 

[Steve]

I've seen a website called FrontierAstro which may be able to help you. There's a guide to getting Frontier running here

 

[Saboteur]

Yeah I have DosBox and downloaded the shareware from FrontierAstro already.

I open Dosbox and I have Frontier set to 'Open With' Dosbox - but I just get Invalid Command in Dosbox - Invalid command Frontier zip.

Sorry for being a complete noob - the last pre-console commands I made were LOAD " " on the Spectrum.

 

[Geraldine]

For Dos Box with a frontend GUI, try D-Fend Reloaded, available here and is very easy to setup, just play around with the settings http://dfendreloaded.sourceforge.net/Download.html

Or (once you have found some Amiga Kickstart ROMS) you could try WinUAE and run the very version you used to have on your CD32. Amiga adfs (or disk images) are easy to come by these days.

WinUAE is available here http://www.winuae.net/frames/download.html
A special tweaked Amiga version is available here http://eab.abime.net/showthread.php?t=57905

This runs great on UAE, note the pic below with me running it in a small window, but you can of course run it in full screen mode too.

 

[Saboteur]

Hey thanks. I've got it now - installed from D-Fend Reloaded Wizard.

I just need to find the flight keys now to fly my ship. First attempt at the keys got me shooting lazers and a 600cr fine

 

[Geraldine]

Hey your welcome, have fun with it I am sure the keys will come back to you as the controls on the PC version are the same as on the Amiga

 

[DraQ]

Hey thanks. I've got it now - installed from D-Fend Reloaded Wizard.

I just need to find the flight keys now to fly my ship. First attempt at the keys got me shooting lazers and a 600cr fine

I recommend using mouse.

Holding RMB allows you to turn, LMB activates the buttons and target lock, RMB+LMB fires the lasers. Enter and Shift fire forward and retro thrusters or increase and decrease set speed respectively, depending on engine mode.

All the other keys are displayed on the buttons which can also be operated using mouse.

 

[Sir.Tj]

I recommend using mouse.

Holding RMB allows you to turn, LMB activates the buttons and target lock, RMB+LMB fires the lasers. Enter and Shift fire forward and retro thrusters or increase and decrease set speed respectively, depending on engine mode.

All the other keys are displayed on the buttons which can also be operated using mouse.

Absolutely, exact same method I use, very easy to use and use the ships computer for most other options.