          		    Introduction
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     The purpose of this handbook is to introduce you to the complex
structures of empire.  After reading all of the following
files you should understand more about the game, how to make your
own changes to it, and how to get started.  The original
game docs found in /doc should be read first.  I didn't try and
rewrite then but rather to add on or update them.

This is a quick breakdown on all the areas that I will cover.

Getting the source code and getting set up: (Phase1)

     I will quickly cover some ways on getting the source code.
How to unpack and unzip the files using two different methods.
Provide a quick step by step process on what game variables 
need to be changed to compile the code for the first time.
Then describe the directory structure.

Making modifications to the basic game: (Phase2)

     I will provide some detailed information on where to find the proper
variables in the game to change so you can design the type of game you want.
I'll bring up some generic game setups, discus how to turn on or off
a specific game command, choosing options, explain some of the options,
and tak about some of the global variables in the game.

Seting up a game: (Phase3)

     A step by step set of instructions will show you how to set up
a game for any number of courtries.  The usage of the programs
found in the /utilities directory will be covered here.  World design,
resource distribution and country placement will all be covered.

Running a game: (Phase4)

     Some advice on how to keep you game running once it starts.
Usage of the files in /scripts directory will be covered here.  Some general
rules on how to conduct your game without having the world hate you
in the process.

Deity Commands: (Phase4)

     I will cover all the commands a Deity can use that are not
found in the 'info' file included in the game.  Some examples of
how to use the commands will be provided.

Where to Get Help: (Phase4)

     My god!! a BUG!! now what?  You'll find some advice on 
where to look for bugs and how to handle them.  Also what 
to do if you are unable to fix a problem.

     Most of the text in the handbook simply fills in the gaps
for the current documentation.  Everything in the /doc directory
will work just fine if your a quick learner.  Since they
were written tho the game has changed alot and thats the reason
for the handbook.  Hopefully after reading all the 
handbook you should be able to setup your game without using
a trial-an-error method.  In the past the average person would 
spend almost a week setting up a game.  Most of the time was spent
in the compile stages.  After reading this hopefully you can cut
this time down to a day or two assuming that no system problems
slow you down. 

 "Good luck, your going to need it"   


 
