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What kind of machine do I need to run the game?
Current models of the game run on a Pentium II 233 MMX based machine, although a faster machine will give enable faster frame rates and screen resolutions of up to 1600 x 1200 pixels. Sierra Studios has partnered with Intel and AMD to optimize the software for the Pentium III and Athlon (AMD-K7) processors.

No matter the system's speed, a 3D accelerator card will be required.

When will the game be available?
The game is slated for a Late Spring 2000 release.

Can I beta-test?
To enter Sierra's general beta testing pool, visit beta.sierra.com. Unfortunately there isn't a way to specify the game you want to test. But... show some initiative, ask good questions, demonstrate some strong insight, show us how valuable you're opinions are on the B5 board and you might be invited to join our super double-secret beta test team.

What ships can we fly?
In the single-player game you'll be flying for the Earth Alliance. That means that your primary ships will be the Starfury and the Thunderbolt. The Minbari Nial, the Centauri Sentri, the Narn Frazi and the Drazi Sky Serpent fighters will be available in multiplayer mode. The Whitestar may also be added as a special case ship.

Will this game be multiplayer?
From day one, the game has been designed with a robust multiplayer mode. B5's mulitplayer mode has been shown at 1999's E3, Gencon and a few other events where gamers have been able to test the multiplayer demo.

Will the game be available for the Macintosh?
There isn't a Mac version planned at this time. This does not mean that there won't be a Macintosh version in the future. Senior management will make the final decision. If Macintosh sales figures continue to grow and enough users show interest, a Mac version will become more likely. Already, a Mac petition has been started online.

I heard the game supports the Pentium III Processor. Do I need to buy a new computer to run the game?
According to designer Marc Hudgins, "Into the Fire supports the new Pentium III, and you will see a performance improvement if you have one, but there aren't specific game features exclusive to the processor." Current processors from Intel, AMD, and Cyrix will also run the game.

Where can I get the demo?
At this time there isn't a demo available for download. Don't worry though, you'll have the opportunity to check out sequences from the game in streaming video clips on this featured on this site.

Although nothing has been determined yet, we're working on plans to release a demo in the first half of 2000.

Who is composing the soundtrack?
The soundtrack will include music from the show and several original pieces written and produced by the show's composer, Christopher Franke.

When does the game take place?
The game is set in the time period between when the original series took place and before the start of the Babylon 5 sequel series, Crusade. Many of the exciting battles from the Babylon 5 series will appear in the game as historical missions.

Will you have characters from the B5 series appear in the game?
The game will feature some new faces as well as many series regulars. For behind-the-scenes information on the game's film shoot, check out the cast list press release.

What engine are you using?
The game's 3D engine is of Sierra's own design, written using Direct3D (DirectX 6.x).

Will there be atmospheric missions?
Despite the fact that some of the fighter craft in the show are able to enter planetary atmospheres, all gameplay in Into the Firewill occur in space. The features and technologies required to simulate atmospheric flight properly are beyond the scope of this project's schedule and budget. Perhaps a planetary raid scenario is something for a future game or add-on.

Does the game support 3D acceleration?
Yes, the game supports 3D acceleration. In fact it requires it. Any card that supports D3D will be compatible with our game.

Will we be able to use missiles? Nukes?
As seen on the show, Starfury and Thunderbolt fighters can carry missiles. This will be an armament option in the game as well. However, we have no plans at this time to incorporate the use of nuclear weaponry in the game.

Will I be able to use my [insert brand] joystick with the game? How will the controls work?
All keyboard and peripheral input will be managed through DirectInput. If your joystick drivers support multiple joysticks or pedals through DirectInput, they will be automatically recognized in the game. All of the controls will be fully configurable.

Any 2-axis joystick or gamepad will work to control the action, but we highly recommend a 3-axis digital joystick

 
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