I understand how to load a user scenario (my experience with Harpoon goes back to Classic on floppies) but I am unclear about databases and mods (when I need them and how to install them). I checked the FAQ but still don't know how to begin so here I am.

 

I downloaded the "Lisbon we have a problem" scenario ver 2 from the WestPac section and assumed it would run without a problem but I got an annex error. Not a clue what that means or how to remedy the problem.

 

Can I assume that if the scenario is in the GUIK, NACV, MED, IOPG or WestPac sections it should run without any database or mod addons?

 

What about those South Atlantic or Caribbean or other scenarios - what do I have to install , where do I install, and are there any other key points to remember?

 

After several years away from Harpoon I'm excited about getting back to one of my favorite PC programs. All help is appreciated.

 

Kirby

I understand how to load a user scenario (my experience with Harpoon goes back to Classic on floppies) but I am unclear about databases and mods (when I need them and how to install them). I checked the FAQ but still don't know how to begin so here I am. I downloaded the "Lisbon we have a problem" scenario ver 2 from the WestPac section and assumed it would run without a problem but I got an annex error. Not a clue what that means or how to remedy the problem.

 

Welcome back to Harpoon! and to HarpGamer.

 

Firstly, a note about databases. HCE comes with two databases:

 

(1) the HCDB database that works with all EC2003 and Westpac battlesets, which database is updated regularly; and

(2) the original, built in database for all other earlier battlesets and which cannot be edited or updated.

 

Any scenarios that come with HCE will be set up to use either of the above databases automatically.

 

The "Lisbon We Have a Problem" scenario uses the stock HCDB database. If you are using the 'stock' game, without any mods, you should be fine.

 

What version of the game engine (GE) are you using? Patches? Betas?

 

Can I assume that if the scenario is in the GUIK, NACV, MED, IOPG or WestPac sections it should run without any database or mod addons?

 

If the scenario comes with the game, yes.

 

Downloaded user created scenarios, however, are a different story. The scenario author should have indicated at the download page which database his scenario needs.

 

What about those South Atlantic or Caribbean or other scenarios - what do I have to install , where do I install, and are there any other key points to remember?

 

Any user created scenarios, especially those created for new battlesets like those you mention, may use different databases than the HCDB. For example, the HCDA is specifically built for the 'Americas' theaters.

 

After several years away from Harpoon I'm excited about getting back to one of my favorite PC programs. All help is appreciated.

 

If you have more questions or this isn't clear, by all means just holler.

First, let me make sure I have the correct file. I DLd the ZIP file containing the following files:

Port2w.scq, bkq, blq, & rdq.

 

The scenario plays OK as either RED or BLUE on my system without any DB modifications. I have build 2009.037 installed.

 

I've gotten the errors you describe in the past, and although there are other group members who understand them far better than I do, it's always seemed to have been the result of DB tweaking I've done. If it helps any, my PE reports my current DB name as HCDB-090620.

 

Buddha

Thanks to both of you. I have version 2008.044 installed but I never thought to update the database. When I updated HCDB to 090620 and re-ran the scenario all was well. I'll get the hang of this yet.

 

Kirby