1) Find some people to play with: There are several "virtual fleets" with many members; Seawolves, Marauders, VNC... You can check the USERS Roster in the Radio Room here at SUBSIM Reviews for good players, too. Use ICQ to negotiate games. If you don't have ICQ, get it here free.

2) Decide who is going to be the host: This has to be a person who has the best computer and fastest connection. Also decide who is going to be on which sides: Allied, Neutral, or Threat.

3) Get the host's I/P address: This is done in ICQ by right clicking on the host's name in the ICQ list and selecting "Info". You should then see the I/P address. Be sure to write it down. You can also look for the I/P number of your own computer in the 688 connection window. If you aren't sure how to do this, let the more experienced player be host first.

4) Make sure everyone who is playing has a copy of the same mission. Everyone should get a copy and save it into their Janes/688(I)/Scenario folder. If you don't have a copy of the same mission, the game won't proceed. Also, everyone should have the Realism Patch installed. You can get it from the PATCHES & MISSIONS section of this website.

5) Shut off all applications except your internet connection and Windows. You should set ICQ to the "AWAY" or "N/A" mode.

PICTURE 1

6) Start the game: make sure your CD is in!

7) Go to the Multiplayer section: in the main menu you should see a blue button called "Multiplayer" (picture 1). Click on it.

PICTURE 2

CONNECTION SETTINGS

8) (See picture 2) Under MODE, click on Server if you are the host, or Client if not.

9) Select which side you wish to be on: Either Allied, Neutral, or Threat.... make sure you decided sides back in ICQ before you got here. If not, pick any of the three.

10) Under CONNECTION TYPE, click on TCP.

If you are the Host, skip steps 11, 12, & 13.

11) Click on the blue Settings... button, next to the TCP button.

12)

PICTURE 3

(See picture 3) Under SERVER ADDRESS, insert the host's I/P.

13) Click OK.

14) Now you're back in the previous window (picture 2), click CONNECT.

14) Wait for Host's name to pop up: This may take a few seconds... if you don't see it after a few minutes, press CTRL I to minimize 688(I) and go back to ICQ to find out what happened.

15) Click on the Host's name. The name might be different than in ICQ, but it is definitely the same guy. Click OK.

16) Chat using the message box. Stop chatting when the Host declares he is loading the game.

17) Host only: Select mission. Click Start (be sure all people are who are coming have arrived!).

18) Play the game. Normal protocol states weapons free after 5 minutes. Use the Radio Room to chat. Have fun and kick ass! Consult the 688(I) Tactics & Tips section of SUBSIM Reviews for assistance.