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Difference between revisions of "Area 51 (2005)"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
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 +
{{distinguish|Area 51|BlackSite: Area 51}}
 
{{Infobox game
 
{{Infobox game
 +
|title        = Area 51
 
|cover        = Area 51 (2005) cover.jpg
 
|cover        = Area 51 (2005) cover.jpg
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
Line 7: Line 9:
 
|engines      =  
 
|engines      =  
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
−
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|June 6, 2005}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|June 8, 2005}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|area-51|67}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization|freeware}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series|Area 51}}
 
|steam appid  =  
 
|steam appid  =  
−
|gogcom page  =  
+
|steam appid side =
 +
|gogcom id    =
 +
|gogcom id side =
 +
|official site=  
 
|strategywiki =  
 
|strategywiki =  
 +
|hltb        = 567
 +
|mobygames    = area-51_
 +
|igdb        = area-51
 
|wikipedia    = Area 51 (2005 video game)
 
|wikipedia    = Area 51 (2005 video game)
 
|winehq      = 2611
 
|winehq      = 2611
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{Series|Area 51}}
 
  
 
'''Key points'''
 
'''Key points'''
−
{{++}} Re-released as a free download sponsored by the US Air Force.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20120409193223/http://extcamp.doublefusion.com/US_Air_Force/Game_Download_Sponsored_by_Air_Force.htm Game Bundle Download Sponsored by Air Force]</ref>
+
{{++}} This game is available as a [[#Free version|free download]].
−
{{--}} GameSpy servers have been shut down, but there is a workaround to connect to OpenSpy servers to play multiplayer; details below.
 
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
−
{{Availability/row| Retail | | unknown | [[Digital rights management (DRM)|DRM]]: StarForce (removed in the [[#Patches|latest patch]]). | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | disc | {{removed DRM|StarForce|3}} (removed in the [[#Patches|latest patch]]). | | Windows }}
−
{{Availability/row| official | http://www.gamewatcher.com/mods/area-51-mod/area-51-free-full-game | online | Free release. [[Digital rights management (DRM)|DRM]]: SoftWrap (removed in the [[#Patches|latest patch]]). | | Windows }}
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{ii}} This game is not sold digitally.
+
{{ii}} The installer on the retail version of the game does not function correctly on modern operating systems (Windows 7 and later). See [[#Problem installing the CD/DVD version|Installing the CD/DVD version]] for a solution or install the [[#Free version|free version]].
 +
 
 +
===Free version===
 +
{{++}} This game was released as a free download sponsored by the ''US Air Force''.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409193223/http://extcamp.doublefusion.com/US_Air_Force/Game_Download_Sponsored_by_Air_Force.htm|title=Game Bundle Download Sponsored by Air Force|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 +
{{ii}} It can be downloaded [https://www.moddb.com/games/area-511/downloads/area-51-pc-version here.] Install the latest [[#Patches|patch]] to remove the online DRM.
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Delete/rename Midway_640x480_30.bik|ref=<ref name="refcheck Garrett">{{Refcheck|user=Garrett|date=2014-07-25|comment=}}</ref>|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Delete/rename Midway_640x480_30.bik}}
 
 
# Go to <code>MOVIES</code> in the installation folder.
 
# Go to <code>MOVIES</code> in the installation folder.
 
# Delete or rename <code>Midway_640x480_30.bik</code>.
 
# Delete or rename <code>Midway_640x480_30.bik</code>.
Line 36: Line 50:
  
 
===Patches===
 
===Patches===
−
* Install the [http://www.patches-scrolls.de/patch/392/7/ latest patch] to remove StarForce copy protection and fix various issues.
+
{{ii}} Install the [https://www.patches-scrolls.de/patch/392/7/ latest patch(1.2)] to remove copy protection and fix various issues.
 +
{{ii}} Latest patch for German and European is version 1.1, it can be found in the above link.
 +
 
 +
===[https://github.com/ProjectDreamland/game/releases Project Dreamland]===
 +
{{ii}} Updated version of the original [[#Free version|Free release]] with many improvements.
 +
{{++}} Fixes many bugs of the original release.
 +
{{++}} Adds support for modern aspect ratios and fixes FOV.
 +
{{++}} Restores multiplayer mode.
 +
{{++}} Improves performance on modern PCs.
 +
{{ii}} If launcher gets stuck verifying game files [[Area 51 (2005)#Project Dreamland launcher get.27s stuck in verifying files|see]]
  
−
===Project Dreamland===
+
===[https://lucasc.me/post/area-51-2005-windows-10-11-patches-guide Area 51 Preservation Project]===
−
* [https://github.com/ProjectDreamland/game/releases Project Dreamland] is a source port of Area 51, that comes bundled together with all of its content. It enables multiplayer and fixes many bugs of original.
+
{{ii}} Updated version of the original [[#Free version|Free release]] with many improvements.
 +
{{++}} Fixes many bugs of the original release.
 +
{{++}} Adds support for fullscreen on modern PCs, improves FOV, solves cutscene stutter, and caps FPS to fix physics.
 +
{{++}} Restores multiplayer mode.
 +
{{++}} Improves performance on modern PCs.
 +
{{++}} Compatible with Project Dreamland(install the mod above before this one).
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
−
===Configuration files location===
+
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|game}}\}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|game}}\}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} <code>UserVConfig.ini</code> contains player video settings.
 
{{ii}} <code>UserVConfig.ini</code> contains player video settings.
Line 52: Line 80:
 
===Save game data location===
 
===Save game data location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|game}}\SAVES\}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|game}}\SAVES\}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) video settings.png|Video settings.}}
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) video settings.png|Video settings.}}
−
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) AA white outlines.png|Forced AA causing white outlines.}}
+
{{Video
−
{{Video settings
+
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51
−
|wsgf link                  = http://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51
 
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = limited
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = limited
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = limited
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = limited
 
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = limited
 
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = limited
−
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    =  
+
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
−
|widescreen resolution      = true
+
|widescreen resolution      = hackable
−
|widescreen resolution notes= See the [http://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51 WSGF entry].
+
|widescreen resolution notes= The game is {{term|Vert-}} by default. Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1483-area-51-hor-fov-fix/ Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix].
 
|multimonitor              = hackable
 
|multimonitor              = hackable
−
|multimonitor notes        = See the [http://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51 WSGF entry].
+
|multimonitor notes        = Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1483-area-51-hor-fov-fix/ Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix].
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
−
|ultrawidescreen notes      = See the [http://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51 WSGF entry].
+
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1483-area-51-hor-fov-fix/ Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix].
−
|4k ultra hd                = unknown
+
|4k ultra hd                = hackable
−
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
+
|4k ultra hd notes          = Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1483-area-51-hor-fov-fix/ Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix]. HUD elements and menu text are not scaled and are very small.
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov                        = hackable
−
|fov notes                  = See the [http://www.wsgf.org/dr/area-51 WSGF entry].
+
|fov notes                  = Default FOV is 60°. Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1483-area-51-hor-fov-fix/ Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix].
 
|windowed                  = hackable
 
|windowed                  = hackable
 
|windowed notes            = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
 
|windowed notes            = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
 
|borderless windowed        = hackable
 
|borderless windowed        = hackable
 
|borderless windowed notes  = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
 
|borderless windowed notes  = See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
−
|anisotropic                = hackable
+
|anisotropic                = false
−
|anisotropic notes          = Force in the [[Glossary:Anisotropic filtering (AF)#Force anisotropic filtering|graphics card control panel]].
+
|anisotropic notes          =  
−
|antialiasing              = hackable
+
|antialiasing              = false
−
|antialiasing notes        = See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
+
|antialiasing notes        = Control panel hack causes glitches, see [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
 +
|upscaling                  = false
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 
|vsync                      = hackable
 
|vsync                      = hackable
 
|vsync notes                = Enabled by default.
 
|vsync notes                = Enabled by default.
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps notes              =  
 
|60 fps notes              =  
−
|120 fps                    = true
+
|120 fps                    = limited
−
|120 fps notes              =  
+
|120 fps notes              = At higher fps, jumping does not work correctly. See [[#High frame rate breaks jump physics|High frame rate breaks jump physics]].
 +
|hdr                        = false
 +
|hdr notes                  =  
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
−
{{--}} HUD elements and in-game text are not scaled up and are very small on 4K resolutions.
 
  
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set windowed in UserVConfig.ini|ref=<ref name="refcheck Garrett"/>|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Set windowed in UserVConfig.ini|ref={{cn|date=September 2016}}}}
 
 
# Go to the installation folder.
 
# Go to the installation folder.
 
# Edit <code>UserVConfig.ini</code>.
 
# Edit <code>UserVConfig.ini</code>.
Line 106: Line 135:
  
 
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]===
−
{{ii}} The game doesn't support AA natively and forcing it through graphics card control panel can cause white outlines around letters and objects in the game.
+
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) - AA white outlines.png|Forced AA causing white outlines.}}
 +
{{ii}} The game doesn't support AA natively and forcing any traditional AA methods, such as MSAA will causes white outlines around letters and some objects.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Force post-process anti-aliasing methods via [[ReShade]].|fix=
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=For AMD user: force morphological filtering (MLAA) through AMD Radeon Control Panel/Catalyst Control Centre.|ref=<ref name="refcheck Antrad">{{refcheck|user=Antrad|date=September 1, 2017}}</ref>|fix=
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use Virtual/Dynamic Super Resolution|ref=<ref name="refcheck Antrad">{{refcheck|user=Antrad|date=September 1, 2017}}</ref>|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Use Virtual/Dynamic Super Resolution|}}
 
 
# Open your graphics card control panel.
 
# Open your graphics card control panel.
−
# Turn on Virtual Super Resolution(AMD) or Dynamic Super Resolution(Nvidia)
+
# Turn on ''Virtual Super Resolution''(AMD) or ''Dynamic Super Resolution''(Nvidia)
 
# In the game video settings select resolution that is higher than the monitor's native resolution. If the game runs in a window change the desktop resolution first, so the game window fits on the screen.
 
# In the game video settings select resolution that is higher than the monitor's native resolution. If the game runs in a window change the desktop resolution first, so the game window fits on the screen.
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Alternative solution is to turn on morphological filtering in the graphics card control panel(AMD).}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Input settings==
+
==Input==
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) Controls.png|Controls.}}
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) Controls.png|Controls.}}
−
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) Key Mappings.png|Key mappings.}}
+
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) - Key mappings.png|Key mappings.}}
−
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap notes          =  
 
|key remap notes          =  
Line 130: Line 164:
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 
|controller support        = false
 
|controller support        = false
 
|controller support notes  =  
 
|controller support notes  =  
Line 140: Line 176:
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
−
|touchscreen               = unknown
+
|xinput controllers        = unknown
−
|touchscreen notes        =  
+
|xinput controllers notes  =
−
|button prompts           = unknown
+
|xbox prompts              = unknown
−
|button prompts notes     =  
+
|xbox prompts notes        =
 +
|impulse triggers          = unknown
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4               = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        =
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  =
 +
|light bar support        = unknown
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers         = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes  =  
 +
|other button prompts     = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=  
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
−
|light bar support        = unknown
+
|simultaneous input        = unknown
−
|light bar support notes   =  
+
|simultaneous input notes  =
 +
|steam input api          = unknown
 +
|steam input api notes    =
 +
|steam hook input          = unknown
 +
|steam hook input notes    =
 +
|steam input presets      = unknown
 +
|steam input presets notes =
 +
|steam controller prompts  = unknown
 +
|steam controller prompts notes =
 +
|steam cursor detection    = unknown
 +
|steam cursor detection notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) audio settings.png|Audio settings.}}
 
{{Image|Area 51 (2005) audio settings.png|Audio settings.}}
−
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume notes    = Effects, music and speech.
 
|separate volume notes    = Effects, music and speech.
Line 166: Line 230:
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support              =  
−
|eax support notes        =  
+
|eax support notes         =
 +
|royalty free audio       = unknown
 +
|royalty free audio notes  =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Other information==
+
{{L10n|content=
−
 
+
{{L10n/switch
−
===Middleware===
+
|language  = English
−
{{Middleware
+
|interface = true
−
|physics          =  
+
|audio    = true
−
|physics notes   =  
+
|subtitles = false
−
|audio           = Miles Sound System
+
|notes    =  
−
|audio notes     =  
+
|fan      =  
−
|interface        =  
+
}}
−
|interface notes =  
+
{{L10n/switch
−
|input            =  
+
|language  = French
−
|input notes     =  
+
|interface = true
−
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
+
|audio    = true
−
|cutscenes notes =  
+
|subtitles = false
−
|multiplayer      =  
+
|notes    =  
−
|multiplayer notes=  
+
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes     =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Italian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio     = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes     =  
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Russian
 +
|interface = true
 +
  |audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes     = Official localization by "Новый Диск". Local retail release only.
 +
|fan      =  
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Spanish
 +
  |interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = false
 +
|notes     =
 +
|fan      =  
 +
}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 219: Line 318:
 
|upnp =  
 
|upnp =  
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
−
==Issues unresolved==
 
−
 
−
===FOV changes after some cutscenes===
 
−
{{ii}} After certain in game cutscenes FOV changes to a very low value. It changes back automatically when a new level is started or if the player loads the game from the next checkpoint.<ref>[http://www.wsgf.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=61&t=31414&sid=f2d42cd6ea3615fc0a7eca7e3ca2d8fb#p166912 Area 51 FOV issues]</ref>
 
  
 
==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
  
 
===Problem installing the CD/DVD version===
 
===Problem installing the CD/DVD version===
−
{{ii}} The installation process fails with the following message "The wizard was interrupted before Area 51(R) could be completely installed".
+
{{ii}} The installation process fails with the message "The wizard was interrupted before Area 51(R) could be completely installed".
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Start the installation manually using the command console<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.vistax64.com/vista-games/28376-problems-installing-midway-games-area-51-a.html|title=Problems Installing Midway Games Area 51|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Start the installation manually using the command console|ref={{cn|date=September 2016}}}}
 
−
# Open My Computer.
 
 
# Open the first CD or DVD in a new window to view its contents.
 
# Open the first CD or DVD in a new window to view its contents.
−
# Inside the new window while holding {{Key|Shift}} press the right mouse button and select "Open command window here".
+
# Inside the window while holding {{Key|Shift}} press the right mouse button and select "Open command window here" or "Open PowerShell Here".
−
# In the command window type <code>msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" /qb</code> and press {{Key|Enter}}.
+
# In the command console type <code>msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" /qb</code> and press {{Key|Enter}}.
 +
# Apply the newest [[#Patches|patch]] to remove DRM.
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
−
{{ii}} Default install directory is <code>C:\Program Files\Midway Games\Area 51\</code> for 32 bit systems and <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Midway Games\Area 51\</code> for 64 bit systems. You can change the install directory by using the INSTALLDIR option. For example, to install the game on E: drive in Games folder type <code>msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" INSTALLDIR="E:\Games\Midway Games\Area 51\" /qb</code>.
+
{{ii}} Default installation folder is <code>C:\Program Files\Midway Games\Area 51\</code> for 32 bit systems and <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Midway Games\Area 51\</code> for 64 bit systems. You can change the installation folder by using the INSTALLDIR option. For example, to install the game on E: drive in Games folder type <code>msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" INSTALLDIR="E:\Games\Midway Games\Area 51\" /qb</code>.
 +
{{ii}} For installing in other languages use the TRANSFORMS property (German and European version only). For German language e.g.: <code>msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" TRANSFORMS=1031.mst /qb</code> Other ''mst'' files for changing language are: 1033.mst, 1034.mst, 1036.mst, 1040.mst and 3084.mst.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==="An internet connection is required to enjoy free, ad-supported game play" error===
 
==="An internet connection is required to enjoy free, ad-supported game play" error===
−
{{ii}} The advertising servers for the US Air Force version are no longer running.
+
{{ii}} The advertising servers for the free US Air Force version are no longer running.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Install the [[#Patches|latest patch]]|ref=<ref name="refcheck Garrett"/>}}
 +
 
 +
===Choppy cutscene playback===
 +
{{ii}} Non-FMV cutscenes play incorrectly on multi-threaded systems.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Run the game with [[Windows#Force CPU affinity|forced single core CPU affinity]]}}
 +
 
 +
===Broken textures and lighting===
 +
{{ii}} On some systems lighting will be broken and all textures will be black. This is a DirectX 9 issue and can be solved with an API wrapper (DXVK also works for Vulkan capable GPUs).
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use WineD3D for Windows|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/topic/4666-area-51-2005-broken-textures-and-lighting/|title=Broken textures and lighting|date=2020-04-27}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download [https://fdossena.com/?p=wined3d/index.frag WineD3D for Windows].
 +
# Follow the included instructions for DirectX 9 games.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use DgVoodoo 2 for Windows|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/topic/4666-area-51-2005-broken-textures-and-lighting/|title=Broken textures and lighting|date=2020-08-8}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download [[DgVoodoo 2|DgVoodoo 2 for Windows]].
 +
# Follow the included instructions for DirectX 9 games.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===High frame rate breaks jump physics===
 +
{{ii}} FPS >50 causes inability to jump while moving up sloped surfaces. FPS >100 breaks jumping mechanic entirely.{{CN|Values are anecdotal|date=October 2016}}.
 +
{{ii}} Jumping is not required for combat, and in most cases where jumping from one platform to another is required, there is an invisible scripted "jump assist" that allows the player to jump across gaps, even though normal jumping is prevented by high frame rate.Changing between the framerate being capped to 50 and unlimited (preferably with a hotkey, like what is avaliable in Rivertuner) is a suitable workaround.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Limit the Framerate to 60FPS |ref={{cn|date=September 2021}}|fix=
 +
* See [[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)#Frame rate capping|Frame rate capping]].
 +
}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Set refresh rate on 60hz|ref={{cn|date=September 2021}}|fix=
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Project Dreamland launcher get's stuck in verifying files===
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Install latest patch}}
+
{{ii}} When executing the launcher for Project Dreamland the launcher gets stuck in an endless loop verifying the game's files.
−
Install the [[#Patches|latest patch]].
+
{{Fixbox|description=Create a shortcut to the game's exe with launch parameters|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/groups/ResurrectDeadMPGames/discussions/1/405692758719325231/#:~:text=2019%20%40%207%3A05pm%C2%A0-,%40trashboat%20%40cinder,-For%20those%20who Project Dreamland stuck on verifying files fix|date=2021-12-15}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Go to the game folder > resources > app > game, and create shortcut for A51.exe
 +
# On the new shortcut add following launch parameter: <code>--launcher</code>
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===Choppy cutscene playback===
+
==Other information==
−
{{ii}} FMV cutscenes play incorrectly in fullscreen mode on modern systems.
+
===API===
 +
{{API
 +
|direct3d versions      = 9
 +
|direct3d notes        =
 +
|directdraw versions    =
 +
|directdraw notes      =
 +
|opengl versions        =
 +
|opengl notes          =
 +
|glide versions        =
 +
|glide notes            =
 +
|software mode          =
 +
|software mode notes    =
 +
|mantle support        =
 +
|mantle support notes  =
 +
|metal support          =
 +
|metal support notes    =
 +
|vulkan versions        =
 +
|vulkan notes          =
 +
|dos modes              =
 +
|dos modes notes        =
 +
|shader model versions  =
 +
|shader model notes    =
 +
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 +
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app =
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app =
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        =
 +
|linux 32-bit executable=
 +
|linux 64-bit executable=
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Middleware===
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Run in borderless window}}
+
{{Middleware
−
Run the game in a [[#Windowed|borderless fullscreen window]].
+
|physics          =
 +
|physics notes    =
 +
|audio            = Miles Sound System
 +
|audio notes      =
 +
|interface        =
 +
|interface notes  =
 +
|input            =
 +
|input notes      =
 +
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
 +
|cutscenes notes  =  
 +
|multiplayer      = GameSpy
 +
|multiplayer notes= Servers have been shut down. To play online use [[#Project Dreamland|Project Dreamland]].
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 274: Line 444:
 
|recHD    =  
 
|recHD    =  
 
|recGPU  =  
 
|recGPU  =  
 +
|notes    = {{ii}} All GeForce MX series video cards are not supported by the game.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}

Latest revision as of 07:41, 16 May 2023

Not to be confused with Area 51 or BlackSite: Area 51.

Area 51
Area 51 cover
Developers
Midway Studios Austin
Publishers
Midway Games
Release dates
Windows June 8, 2005
Reception
Metacritic 67
Taxonomy
Monetization Freeware
Series Area 51
Area 51 (2005) on HowLongToBeat
Area 51 (2005) on IGDB
Area 51 (2005) on MobyGames
Area 51 (2005) on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Area 51
Area 51 1995
Area 51 (2005) 2005
BlackSite: Area 51 2007

Warnings

GameSpy online services have been shut down (see Network for solutions).

Key points

This game is available as a free download.

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
 StarForce 3 DRM (removed in the latest patch).
Windows
The installer on the retail version of the game does not function correctly on modern operating systems (Windows 7 and later). See Installing the CD/DVD version for a solution or install the free version.

Free version

This game was released as a free download sponsored by the US Air Force.[1]
It can be downloaded here. Install the latest patch to remove the online DRM.

Essential improvements

Skip intro videos

Delete/rename Midway_640x480_30.bik[2]
  1. Go to MOVIES in the installation folder.
  2. Delete or rename Midway_640x480_30.bik.

Patches

Install the latest patch(1.2) to remove copy protection and fix various issues.
Latest patch for German and European is version 1.1, it can be found in the above link.

Project Dreamland

Updated version of the original Free release with many improvements.
Fixes many bugs of the original release.
Adds support for modern aspect ratios and fixes FOV.
Restores multiplayer mode.
Improves performance on modern PCs.
If launcher gets stuck verifying game files see

Area 51 Preservation Project

Updated version of the original Free release with many improvements.
Fixes many bugs of the original release.
Adds support for fullscreen on modern PCs, improves FOV, solves cutscene stutter, and caps FPS to fix physics.
Restores multiplayer mode.
Improves performance on modern PCs.
Compatible with Project Dreamland(install the mod above before this one).

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows <path-to-game>\[Note 1]
UserVConfig.ini contains player video settings.
UserInputConfig.ini contains player input settings.
LangConfig.ini contains the game language settings.
InputConfig.ini and VConfig.ini contain default settings; these files do not need to be edited directly.

Save game data location

System Location
Windows <path-to-game>\SAVES\[Note 1]

Video

Video settings.
Video settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
 
 The game is Vert- by default. Use Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix.
Multi-monitor
 
 Use Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix.
Ultra-widescreen
 
 Use Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix.
4K Ultra HD
 
 Use Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix. HUD elements and menu text are not scaled and are very small.
Field of view (FOV)
Default FOV is 60°. Use Area 51 HOR+ FOV fix.
Windowed
See Windowed.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
See Windowed.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Control panel hack causes glitches, see Anti-aliasing (AA).
High-fidelity upscaling
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Enabled by default.
60 FPS
120+ FPS
At higher fps, jumping does not work correctly. See High frame rate breaks jump physics.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.

Windowed

Set windowed in UserVConfig.ini[2]
  1. Go to the installation folder.
  2. Edit UserVConfig.ini.
  3. Change Window = FALSE to Window = TRUE
  4. Set your resolution if needed.
  5. For borderless mode set your desktop resolution and use a borderless tool.
  6. Save your changes and close the file.

Anti-aliasing (AA)

Forced AA causing white outlines.
Forced AA causing white outlines.
The game doesn't support AA natively and forcing any traditional AA methods, such as MSAA will causes white outlines around letters and some objects.
Force post-process anti-aliasing methods via ReShade.
For AMD user: force morphological filtering (MLAA) through AMD Radeon Control Panel/Catalyst Control Centre.[3]
Use Virtual/Dynamic Super Resolution[3]
  1. Open your graphics card control panel.
  2. Turn on Virtual Super Resolution(AMD) or Dynamic Super Resolution(Nvidia)
  3. In the game video settings select resolution that is higher than the monitor's native resolution. If the game runs in a window change the desktop resolution first, so the game window fits on the screen.

Input

Controls.
Controls.
Key mappings.
Key mappings.

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Mouse acceleration
Disabled by default.
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
Controller types

Audio

Audio settings.
Audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Effects, music and speech.
Surround sound
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
French
German
Italian
Russian
Official localization by "Новый Диск". Local retail release only.
Spanish

Network

Multiplayer types

Type Native Notes
LAN play
Online play
GameSpy servers have been shut down. To play online download Project Dreamland.

Issues fixed

Problem installing the CD/DVD version

The installation process fails with the message "The wizard was interrupted before Area 51(R) could be completely installed".
Start the installation manually using the command console[4]
  1. Open the first CD or DVD in a new window to view its contents.
  2. Inside the window while holding ⇧ Shift press the right mouse button and select "Open command window here" or "Open PowerShell Here".
  3. In the command console type msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" /qb and press ↵ Enter.
  4. Apply the newest patch to remove DRM.

Notes

Default installation folder is C:\Program Files\Midway Games\Area 51\ for 32 bit systems and C:\Program Files (x86)\Midway Games\Area 51\ for 64 bit systems. You can change the installation folder by using the INSTALLDIR option. For example, to install the game on E: drive in Games folder type msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" INSTALLDIR="E:\Games\Midway Games\Area 51\" /qb.
For installing in other languages use the TRANSFORMS property (German and European version only). For German language e.g.: msiexec /i "Area 51(R).msi" TRANSFORMS=1031.mst /qb Other mst files for changing language are: 1033.mst, 1034.mst, 1036.mst, 1040.mst and 3084.mst.

"An internet connection is required to enjoy free, ad-supported game play" error

The advertising servers for the free US Air Force version are no longer running.
Install the latest patch[2]

Choppy cutscene playback

Non-FMV cutscenes play incorrectly on multi-threaded systems.
Run the game with forced single core CPU affinity

Broken textures and lighting

On some systems lighting will be broken and all textures will be black. This is a DirectX 9 issue and can be solved with an API wrapper (DXVK also works for Vulkan capable GPUs).
Use WineD3D for Windows[5]
  1. Download WineD3D for Windows.
  2. Follow the included instructions for DirectX 9 games.
Use DgVoodoo 2 for Windows[6]
  1. Download DgVoodoo 2 for Windows.
  2. Follow the included instructions for DirectX 9 games.

High frame rate breaks jump physics

FPS >50 causes inability to jump while moving up sloped surfaces. FPS >100 breaks jumping mechanic entirely.[citation needed].
Jumping is not required for combat, and in most cases where jumping from one platform to another is required, there is an invisible scripted "jump assist" that allows the player to jump across gaps, even though normal jumping is prevented by high frame rate.Changing between the framerate being capped to 50 and unlimited (preferably with a hotkey, like what is avaliable in Rivertuner) is a suitable workaround.
Limit the Framerate to 60FPS[citation needed]
Set refresh rate on 60hz[citation needed]

Project Dreamland launcher get's stuck in verifying files

When executing the launcher for Project Dreamland the launcher gets stuck in an endless loop verifying the game's files.
Create a shortcut to the game's exe with launch parameters[7]
  1. Go to the game folder > resources > app > game, and create shortcut for A51.exe
  2. On the new shortcut add following launch parameter: --launcher

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio Miles Sound System
Cutscenes Bink Video
Multiplayer GameSpy Servers have been shut down. To play online use Project Dreamland.

System requirements

Windows
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 2000, XP
Processor (CPU) Intel 1.4 GHz
AMD 1.2 GHz
System memory (RAM) 256 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 3 GB
Video card (GPU) ATI Radeon 9500
Nvidia GeForce FX 5200
All GeForce MX series video cards are not supported by the game.


Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 When running this game without elevated privileges (Run as administrator option), write operations against a location below %PROGRAMFILES%, %PROGRAMDATA%, or %WINDIR% might be redirected to %LOCALAPPDATA%\VirtualStore on Windows Vista and later (more details).

References

  1. ↑ Game Bundle Download Sponsored by Air Force - last accessed on May 2023
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Verified by User:Garrett on 2014-07-25
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Verified by User:Antrad on September 1, 2017
  4. ↑ Problems Installing Midway Games Area 51 - last accessed on May 2023
  5. ↑ Broken textures and lighting - last accessed on 2020-04-27
  6. ↑ Broken textures and lighting - last accessed on 2020-08-8
  7. ↑ Project Dreamland stuck on verifying files fix [missing title] - last accessed on 2021-12-15