ZX Format #07: Guide to 3D Construction Kit for ZX Spectrum

3D CONSTRUCTION KIT

music by Volga soft
(C) Gil-Gelad

MENU

So, after admiring the cute splash screen with the proud inscription 3D CONSTRUCTION KIT, you gain access to a rich selection of control options:

KEMPSTON JOYSTICK
SINCLAIR JOYSTICK
CURSOR KEYS

Which translates as:

KEMPSTON JOYSTICK
SINCLAIR JOYSTICK
CURSOR KEYS

By clicking on the desired button (NOT RESET!), you will be thrown into the working menu of the program, if one can call a bunch of incomprehensible squares, rectangles, and a few words that I have already seen on the Moranon's shutters a menu. So let's proceed as it should: from left to right, and from top to bottom.

File General Area Condition 

FILE Who said food? No, that's not true. This
╔═ is the file management menu.
║ 
║ 
╠═ LOAD Load file number 0-9
║ In case of absence of the file, an error
║ message will be displayed with a suggestion to retry.
╠═ SAVE Save the file under number
║ 0-9 on disk (DISK) or tape (TAPE). To
║ the great sorrow of those who disked 3D,
║ they did not take care of the OVERWRITE function,
║ which is truly a great grief. At least thank
║ goodness that there is any work with the disk.
║ 
╚═ NEW Erase all data from memory
about the created game. The command completely
destroys any memories of the existence of
the computer itself.

GENERAL Don't be afraid, this is not from the army
╔═ behind you. This is just the installation of all
║ program parameters.
║ 
║ 
╠═ RESET An option that returns you to the area
║ declared as the original (see
║ START AREA of this menu), and the
║ beginning of the program, if something has already
║ been written.
╠═ SETUP A submenu for setting parameters
║ ─┐ of the game.
║ │
║ ├─CLIMB ABILITY. The height of the obstacle
║ │ that the hero can overcome.
║ │
║ ├─FALL ABILITY. The height from which
║ │ the hero can fall without significant
║ │ harm to himself and the computer.
║ │ (about the height of a sofa. :))
║ │  
║ ├─WALK SPEED. The speed of movement
║ │ forward and backward.
║ │
║ ├─TURN SPEED. The speed of rotation around
║ │ its own axis.
║ │
║ ├─START AREA. The starting location.
║ │
║ ├─START ENTRANCE. The starting exit.
║ │
║ └─ACTIVATE RANGE. 
║ 
║ 
╠═ INSTRUMENT An extremely useful option,
║ allowing you to assign places and numbers
║ of variables displayed on the screen. It has
║ the following form:
║ 
║ NUMBER - The number of the "instrument". Depends
║ on the position you selected in the
║ previous menu.
║ 
║ TYPE - The type of information representation.
║ can be:
║    NUMBER - numerical
║    H BAR - horizontal bar
║    V BAR - vertical bar
║    BLANK - this "instrument" is not used.
║ 
║ X KOORD─┐ X and Y coordinates of the
║ ├─ output value of the variable on the screen.
║ Y KOORD─┘ 
║ 
║ LENGTH - the length of the displayed information
║ from 0 to 5.
║ VARIABLE - the number of the variable that
║ is displayed by this instrument.
║ COLOUR - and this is just color. You could
║ have figured that out yourself.
║ 
╠═ WINDOW Don't throw irons at the monitor. This is not
║ MICROSOFT, this is changing the output window parameters.
║ 
║ X pos - see X KOORD
║ 
║ Y pos - see Y KOORD
║ 
║ X size - size in X
║ 
║ Y size - size in Y
║ 
╚═ TEST The most pleasant and necessary option in
the entire program. It allows you to admire the program you just created,
which (and you can honestly admit this) any
DOOMs or shabby Duks will grunt and grunt.

AREA. A menu that allows you to do all sorts of nasty things with locations. For example - EDIT them.
 
╠═ ADD AREA Create another location.
 
╠═ EDIT AREA Edit the location.
║ ─┐ 
║ │ 
║ └─AREA (number)
║ OBJECTS. number of objects in
║ the location.
║ SCALE. Scale
║ 
╠═ GOTO AREA Change the number of the current
║ location.
║ 
╠═ COLOUR AREA Change the color of the location.
║ ─┐ 
║ │
║ ├──INC. ink color (for those
║ │ who still don't know)
║ │
║ ├──PAPER. paper color.
║ │
║ ├──BRIGHT. brightness.
║ │
║ └──BORDER. border color.
║ 
╠═ ADD ENTRNC Add an exit.
║ 
║ A T T E N T I O N ! 
║ ┌$─┐
║ │ The exit number must correspond to the │
║ │ location number to which it leads. │
║ └$─┘
║ 
╚═ EDIT ENTRNC Edit the exit.

CONDITION The most necessary menu in the entire
╔═ program. It is the only one
║ that will allow you to write all the logic and scold the player!
║ 
╠═ GENERAL Here is written the part of the program that must
║ be executed regardless of the location number
║  
╠═ LOCAL And this, as you have already understood, is the
║ part that is executed ONLY
║ in this location.
║ 
╠═ PROC Subprograms called from anywhere
║ (even from the bathroom :) ).
║ 
╚═ MESSAGE Messages, greetings to friends, and
other text displayed during
the game. For example "You're dead,
boy."

So, if you have read this far, then either
you have absolutely nothing to do, or you have a great
need for this editor. For the latter, I continue.

All of the above concerns the top line. Now shift your gaze to the center of the screen. There you can observe many interesting things.

On the left are 2 (two) windows:

VIEW (Direction of view on the picture)

NORTH [from the north], SOUTH [from the south], WEST [from the west], EAST [from the east] and PLAN [from above])

MODE (type of movement: FLY1, 

FLY2 [flying] and WALK [walking])

In the center are icons to control your position in the location. I think
everything is clear here.

Now let's look at the inscriptions at the bottom of
the screen.

GLOBAL. A curse that allows you to create walls and ceilings without
extra effort.

COPY. The most terrible spell. creates
another item from those that have already been created.

CREATE. By clicking on this icon, you will drop
into the item creation menu, where you can create:

EXIT! - simply return to CREAT
SENSR - When this option is selected, a point appears on the screen, spitting laser at the player.
RECT - Rectangle.
PYRMD - Frustum of a pyramid.
CUBE - Cube.
LINE - Line segment.
TRI. - Triangle.
QUAD. - Square.
PENT. - Pentagon:)
HEX. - Hexagon.

EDIT. By selecting this option, you can (with
the arrows) move the selected item (MOVE), stretch it in three dimensions (STRETCH), shrink it in five dimensions (SHRINK), rotate it however you like (TURN), and even deform it in various ways (move vertices) (POINT).
LOAD, RESRT and SAVE duplicate the similar commands of the top line.
SHADE. Shadow. Allows you to change the fill
of the walls of the item.
DELETE. Allows you to destroy a too
deformed figure.
ATTR. An option that allows you to determine
what the item was originally (INITIAL): 
- Visible (VISIBLE), or invisible (INVISIBLE), as well as its current status:
visible, invisible, destroyed (DESTROYED). 

Well, that seems to be all about the menus. Now
it would be good to figure out the language. Those who want to do it themselves, or those who do not like the proposed version, can confidently press the "magic button" and, entering DUMP #E850, personally examine the dictionary. And if they find anything I missed, please let me know through the journal (I kindly ask).

The 3DCK interpreter provides the programmer with 255 flags (or variables) with which almost all operations are performed. In further consideration:
= number 
= flag 
= item number 
= location numbers 
= message number 

SETV a b - Assign the value a to flag b.
for example: SETV 001 002 will write the number 1 into the second variable.
ADDV a b - Add number a to the value of flag b.
Works with three digits (0-255)
ADCV a b - Add number a to the value of flag b.
Works with five digits (0-9).
SUBV a b - Subtract number a from flag b.
Works with a byte (0-255)
SBCV a b - Subtract number a from flag b.
Works with 5 digits.

WARNING! These arithmetic operations
for some reason spoil the values stored in
the nearest smaller flag. Maybe my version is buggy?

ORV a b Just logical operations OR
ANDV a b AND
XORV a b EXCLUSIVE OR

CMPV a b - Compare the value of flag b with
the number a
IFEQ - If they are equal. (condition)
IFGT - If greater.
IFLT - If less.
THEN - Then (the word after any condition.)
ELSE - Otherwise (branching
in the condition.)
AND ] - And, OR for checking multiple
OR ] conditions.

IFSHOT c - If there was a hit on the item
with number c.
IFHIT - If there was a hit on the hero.
IFCRUSH - If the hero fell from a height
greater than specified in GENERALSETUPFALL ABILITY.
IFVIS c - If item c is visible.
IFTIMER - If a timer is set.
IFACTIVE c - If the item is activated
(condition appears in the game-application [file 0] in the location with the computer.)
ENDIF - A mandatory word at the end of the condition.
VIS c - Make the item visible
INVIS c - Make the item invisible.
DESTROY c - Destroy the item with.
GOTO d e - Move from location d to location e.
MODE a - Type of vision. Programmatic analog
of the MODE window of the main menu.
SETWPOS a f - Position of the game window.
SETWSIZE a f - Size of the game screen.
COLOUR a f - Change the color of the location.
- what to paint (001 - walls
003 - border), a-color.
SOUND a - One-time sound like "Tyu".
SYNCSND a - Sound with increasing frequency
and amplitude.
DELAY a - Delay. Analog of PAUSE in
basic.
TEXTCOL a - Text color.
PRINT a f z - Print message z
REDRAW - Redraw the screen.
CALL a - Call procedure a.
END - A mandatory word at the end of each
module. It is automatically set when
it is created (CREAT).

Well, that seems to be all I wanted to
tell you. And if I missed something, then I ask
you to forgive me, for it is not out of malicious intent, but merely out of my dullness and ignorance.

With this, I bid you farewell.
Your G-G.

Contents of the publication: ZX Format #07

• From the Authors
  Update on SMUC, distribution issues, and plans for future ZX Format issues. Authors address outdated SMUC info and distribution problems of ZF-6. Upcoming content includes game descriptions and new projects.
• Аторы журнала
  Contact information and editorial team details for ZX-Format No.7. Provides mailing and electronic addresses, as well as contact phone numbers. Information on the availability of their website and specific contact instructions.
• Содержание номера
  The article provides an overview of notable software releases on the St. Petersburg market for autumn. It also includes detailed descriptions of games, programming tips, and hardware projects. Interviews, philosophical tales, and reader letters enrich the issue.
• Игрушки - Welcome
  An overview of software novelties for ZX Spectrum, including games like 'Los Angeles Drugs Bust' and 'Jungle Warfare'. Each game description provides insights into graphics, gameplay, and features. A variety of genres from action to strategy are covered, showcasing the diversity of software offerings.
• Игрушки - Алешкин А.В.
  The article describes the game 'TAI-PAN' as an arcade-economic game set in the 19th-century East, focusing on trading and survival amidst pirates and danger. It details the gameplay mechanics, such as trading goods, managing finances, and navigating seas with different ships. Despite its engaging plot and interface, the game didn't achieve much popularity in Russia.
• Игрушки - Soft
  A whimsical narrative in a fantastical world where colors converse with the Last, a character recounting tales of ancient humans, coders, and a mysterious past. The story explores themes of language, translation, and the creation of 'the Last' amidst fantastical beings like flying hippos and sea giraffes. It serves as a fictional narrative with humorous elements, blending science fiction with satire.
• Игрушки - Alex ASP
  A parody on Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' named 'Bored of the Rings' by Delta 4 is explored. The text references adaptations, humorous adventures of characters like Fordo and Bimbo, and differing versions from Delta 4 over the years. Anticipated prequels and correspondence excerpts with Delta 4's Fergus McNeill are mentioned.
• Игрушки - Гил-Гелад
  The article provides a detailed guide on navigating the 3D Construction Kit interface for ZX Spectrum. It explains menu options for file management, game setup, and in-game conditions. Additionally, it covers object creation, editing, and logic implementation within the program.
• Программистам - Дмитрий Рудовский
  The article concludes the description of BB commands and provides tips on their usage. It details the usage of the CLOCK command for time and alarm management on ZX Spectrum. Additionally, it explains the SORT command for array sorting and introduces new logical and mathematical functions.
• Программистам - Angel
  Introduction to assembly programming for beginners, covering basic concepts and commands. Detailed explanation of processor registers and flags, with examples. Offers practical advice on transitioning from Basic to assembly language.
• Программистам - GreenFort
  Discussion on fast calculations in assembler for tasks like vector graphics and astronomy. Describes procedures for binary division and multiplication, with examples for different byte sizes. Highlights the adaptability of these methods for increased precision.
• Программистам - TP, Stinger
  Detailed technical description of the Mod file format for music composition on ZX Spectrum, focusing on structure and data offsets for title, instruments, and patterns.
• Программистам - Research
  The article describes the capabilities and limitations of the Convert program, focusing on its use for converting images to the BMC format. It includes technical details about the program's functions, such as dithering methods, sprite and screen format output, and the removal of extraneous dots. Additionally, the article briefly discusses the source code of X-Color and its potential applications.
• Обзор
  The article discusses the ENLiGHT'97 demo-party held in St. Petersburg on August 24, 1997, featuring platforms like Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. The event attracted around 1100 delegates, leading to overcrowding and technical issues, which caused the cancellation of the second day. Despite these issues, the event was generally enjoyable, and there is hope for another event in 1998.
• Обзор
  Review of VideoFAIR exhibition in Manezh with highlights on video and audio equipment. Amiga-service and various companies showcased their technological advancements in video editing and broadcast systems. Notable innovations include 3D laser-scanned displays and professional audio solutions.
• Железо - Nemo
  Discussion of KAY technology export to decentralize Spectrum production. Highlights potential benefits and challenges of local manufacturing. Emphasizes quality assurance and support systems.
• Железо
  The article describes the development of a new Scorpion motherboard, focusing on enhancing graphics, speed, and compatibility with modern peripherals like IBM keyboards and mice. It introduces the GMX (Graphic Memory Extension) board, designed to upgrade existing Scorpion models to match the capabilities of the new motherboard. The GMX board offers significant improvements in memory, graphics, and processing speed, while maintaining compatibility with ZX Spectrum and Pentagon standards.
• Железо
  The article provides a detailed overview of two popular audio amplifiers for ZX Spectrum users in St. Petersburg. It highlights the advantages and specifications of the 2 X 2W low-voltage amplifier and the 2 X 22W car amplifier. The article also includes a price list and ordering instructions through the 'Nemo' company.
• Примьера
  The article describes the improvements and features of the Turbo Assembler version 1.1 for ZX Spectrum. It highlights the differences from version 1.0, such as bug fixes, screen size changes, and added features like line editor and syntax checking. It also details the memory allocation and provides a guide on using the editor and compiler functions.
• Примьера - STS
  Description of the Riff Tracker MOD-editor for General Sound, its features, and functionalities. Provides detailed instructions on using editing and sample management. Notes on the current version limitations and expected improvements.
• Примьера - Paul Atrides, Alex Noman
  Presentation of Oberon Creative Pack, consisting of ZX-WinWord and Sprite Cutter. ZX-WinWord is a text editor combining text and graphics with advanced features. Sprite Cutter allows sprite creation and manipulation in various formats.
• Примьера
  Presentation of the second demo version of the game Headball by ZX-Masters, discussing its features and improvements since the first demo. The game offers two-player mode, four levels, three types of projectiles, various options, and computer difficulty settings. Availability of Turbo mode and enhanced synchronization and animation make it unique among other Spectrum games.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Digital Reality about ongoing projects like DOOM and Paradise Lost. Discussion of challenges and progress in game development. Preview of their submissions for the ENLiGHT event.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with members of the newly formed group EXTREME. They work on demos for Spectrum and Amiga platforms and discuss their team members and activities. The interview also touches upon the state of the Amiga scene in Moscow.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  Interview with Samara-based Spectrum enthusiasts discussing their achievements and challenges. Emphasis on community building and publication of Oberon magazine. Efforts to establish a Spectrum network and convert the game WALKER.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  The article is an interview with members of the group Flash inc. discussing their projects for ZX Spectrum and PC, including a music editor with an innovative interface and a new multicolor graphic editor.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Moscow-based group Progress discussing their current work on Spectrum demos, plans for future projects on Amiga, and opinions on the Russian demoscene.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Felix about changes in the tech landscape, the enduring appeal of Amiga despite PC dominance, and his work on 'Winnie the Pooh - 2' for Spectrum.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Slash about the ENLiGHT event, including sponsorship issues, attendee behavior, and the quality of music and demos. Discussion of the current state of the Spectrum and Amiga markets. Commentary on music trackers and the future of hardware development.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with V. Mednonogov after ENLiGHT'97 discussing impressions of the event, future of Spectrum, and his current project 'Black Raven'. Mednonogov shares his views on new hardware and software development and the importance of copyright. He also discusses his plans for upcoming projects and the challenges faced in game development.
• Здесь был ты
  A satirical guide to gaining power and invisibility using magical rituals and Orbit gum.
• Здесь был ты - Saggitarius
  A contemplative novella about a man's existential journey after encountering a mysterious individual offering a device called the Stop Crane. Through flashbacks, the protagonist reflects on his life, uniqueness, and his desire to break free from societal constraints. Ultimately, he faces the moral dilemma of using the Stop Crane to transcend time and existence.
• Почта - Eagle Soft
  Critique of ZX-Spectrum software, highlighting the limitations of current programs and recommending the removal of outdated tools. Discussion on the limitations of assembly programs and the need for more efficient assemblers like M80. Evaluation of current music and graphic editors, with a focus on the redundancy of certain applications.
• Почта
  Discussion of reader inquiries on ZX Format distribution and content. Responses include details on acquiring issues and technical insights on the KAY-256 computer. The magazine also addresses criticism of its market outlook article.
• Почта
  This advertisement highlights XL Design Inc.'s software distribution campaign, offering games like 'Plutonia' and upcoming releases such as 'Mortal Kombat'. Mouse controllers are promoted with humorous selling points and pricing details. Studio LOGROS provides a wide range of software and peripherals, with options for local and remote purchases.
• Разное - Александр Сысоев
  The article discusses the creation of an RPG game by the OBERON GROUP, inspired by 'Eye of Beholder'. It describes the game's humorous plot set in a distant galaxy and the battle against invaders on a planet named Agima. The team invites musicians, artists, coders, and scriptwriters for collaboration.
• Разное - Viator
  The article describes the development of a new graphics editor called STATE OF THE ART for ZX Spectrum, aiming to improve upon existing editors like ART-STUDIO and ARTIST-2. The team AVALON, inspired by feedback from the SPECCY artist community, incorporates features from editors on Amiga and PC, while also addressing specific user requests. Key features include a user-friendly interface, enhanced magnify mode, advanced shape and window manipulation, and optimized performance.
• Разное
  Discussion on enhancing consumer quality of Spectrum computers without altering their technical specifications. Suggestions include improving existing support, developing platform ideology, and structural changes. The article also touches on the potential of electronic books and their commercial viability.
• Amiga Club - Максим Петров
  The article describes the author's admiration for the Amiga computer, emphasizing its aesthetic and technical merits compared to other platforms. It explores the author's programming experiences on Amiga, highlighting its efficiency and the impressive capabilities of its new hardware upgrades. The article concludes by reflecting on the unique community and passion of Amiga enthusiasts.