This wiki is archived and useful information is being migrated to the main bzflag.org website
Getting Started
This article covers the basics of getting started with BZFlag.
Contents
Step 1 - Downloading and installing the game
To start playing, you obviously need to download the game, [[Download|you can do so right here]. Click on the link for your Operating System.
After BZFlag has completed downloading, you you can install the game.
- On Windows, it should appear in the start menu, under "BZFlag2.0.10", assuming you downloaded and installed 2.0.10.
- On OS X, you can click on the .dmg, and then drag the "BZFlag 2.0.10" icon into the applications folder
- On Linux, you can either build from the source, or your you can install a package. (On Debian based OSes, "apt-get install bzflag" installs version 2.0.8)
Step 2 - Registering your callsign
It is not mandatory to register your callsign, but it is recommended. Here are a few benefits to registering:
- Your callsign is reserved, no one can take it.
- Registering gives you an identity, so you can have "proof" of who you are
- Registering allows you to post on the forums
- You can join groups, and leagues.
If you are still interested in registering (it is highly recommended), then follow this link.
Step 3 - Entering your callsign, and joining the game
The Main MenuWhen you start up BZFlag, you will probably see a screen similar to this one. The main menu is used to get to all of the games options:
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The Join Game MenuFor now, we will be concentrating on the "Join Game" Screen. This screen allows you do quite a few things, such as:
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The Server ListIf you want to see a list of current servers, move to the "Find Server" option. A second or two after you select this, a series of servers will appear on the list, with the most popular servers being first. Select one that sounds good, and you will be returned to the "Join Game" screen. Then select "Connect", and you will join the server. Once the join is complete, you will see a list of users, a server message, and any other info (such as chat), in the chat box. |
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Playing BZFlagOnce you've joined a server, you are going to be playing with anywhere from 5-35 other people. Their names are listed on an in-game screen, which can be enabled or disabled by pressing "s". This list shows a few things:
RadarThe Radar (In the bottom left), shows a top, 2d view of the map. This is useful for dodging bullets, and making sure no one sneaks up behind you. Mouse BoxThe "mousebox" is used for a few things:
SportsmanshipWhen playing BZFlag, keep a few simple rules in mind:
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