Main Menu Athletics Menu

Designer's Notes

The game includes the 3000m steeplechase in addition to the 5000m and 10,000m but we were also anxious to include 3 3/4 Laps in the program even though it meant programming a fourth, and entirely different, format. One feature we were very keen to include was an AI for all four events so that you can have the computer control all, some, or none of the runners leaving you to look after just one or as many as you like.

Bearing in mind that The Long Distance Double is based on a multi-choice system this was quite a challenge, and the 1500m proved to be the most complex AI of all. However we now have an AI that works just fine, is very difficult to beat and achieves fast times for its runners - exactly what we wanted.

The simulation is of course text-driven with the main Race Screen showing the current Race Display (the runners in race order with distance behind leader in metres shown in list form), the current Runner Data (all the details of his 'card', Stamina remaining, etc, etc), and a Message Section which tells you what your choices are or what the computer is doing. Intermediate times at different points in the race are also given.

The computer AI takes into account remaining Stamina, stage of the race (with varying logical objectives), runner's Inject Pace ability, current Table to roll on or not, current Pace of leader and all the available Options if a Table is used. All this to achieve the best possible Race Time. The AI will not run a slow tactical race but that doesn't prevent you from doing just that with a user-controlled runner. And you can also use a Pacemaker if he is user-controlled.

Full Runner Records giving races run, won, seconds, thirds, personal bests, etc are maintained as well as Times achieved. You can run single races or a full meeting or season.

The publication of the game has been delayed somewhat but one thing we have learned from previous programs we have produced is that you can't rush things if you want to get them right!

Game Features

• 1500m, 1 mile, 3000m steeplechase, 5000m, and 10000m included.
• All the runners from the dice and chart version included, plus a few more.
• A truly All-Time-Great based program.
• The user can control one or more runners, or none at all.
• The computer's AI takes over the rest.
• See all the options available to each runner (user-controlled or AI), or not.
• Or just see race order and distance behind leader after each Turn.
• Or obtain an instant result.
• Races can be archived to disk or hard drive.
• Races can be replayed showing the running order after each Turn with distance behind leader.
• A Race Summary provides lapchart-style info showing all runner positions after each Turn.
• Split Times are shown at appropriate points to judge the pace of the race.
• Final times are shown for all finishers.
• Over 40 venues included.
• World and venue records for all five events are tracked.
• Separate screens are available for each venue.
• Weather Rules apply.
• All Tracks are rated for basic speed - some are more suited for World Record attempts than others.
• Race History available for each event - with option for Race Summary and Race Replay facility.
• Very user-friendly Editing Suite - add/change runners and/or venues.
• Print facilities for most stats screens.
• Complete with comprehensive 28-page manual and idiot cards for easy reference.

Game Screenshots

Main Menu Athletics Menu