Kezan's Backgammon Theme
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Kezan's Backgammon Theme © 2000 -
Kezan-Design. All Rights Reserved |
I would like to give special Thanks to Michael Strato for help and big support in the realization of this Theme. Thank You. |
This Theme is dedicated to my mentor who
enlightened me with this fascinating game |
1. Specification
3. Introduction 4. Installation 6. HonorWare 8. Uninstalling |
Title: |
- Kezan's Backgammon Theme |
Type: |
- HonorWare |
Size: |
- 5.00 MB ( 4.33 MB Compressed ) |
Operating System: |
- Win98 ( Win95,Win NT, Win 2000 ) |
Web Address: |
- www.kezan-design.com |
Description: |
Everything you ever wanted to know about this fascinating game in one
place. This is the first time that someone uses a desktop theme for this purpose - educational fun with interactive wallpaper. |
- Kezan's Backgammon.Theme | |
Wallpaper: | - Random change of five computer-generated images (1024x768) with Links |
Cursors | - All cursors made in 3D with some animated (8 Bit) |
Icons: | - Regular 3 Icons + All System's in 3D ( 8 Bit in 3 size 16x16, 32x32, 48x48) |
Web Graphics: | - Computer-generated graphics for Explorer Web View |
Logo Screens: | - Two shutdown logos with animated startup logo |
Sounds: | - All accompanying sounds are in 22 kHz stereo (21 pcs. ACM Wave form decoder) |
Screen Saver: | - Educational screen saver with best opening rolls |
HotBar | - Two Images which will decorate your IE or NS |
Backgammon is an ancient game
(believed to be 5,000 years old) and it is similar to chess in complexity except that
there exists the factor of luck. This is what makes the game so fascinating. Well, it
doesn't mean this is game for gamblers like Roulette. On the contrary, it requires much
skill obtained through study and training. Good concentration, fast counting, a sense for
mathematics and understanding situations on the board are other important factors. You
must also acknowledge you cannot control the randomness of dice. Many compare the
scenarios on the board to the challenges of real-life situations. As I say:
"Backgammon is philosophy of life". The first reason why I wanted to make this Backgammon Theme was simply because I didn't find one anywhere on the web and I thought that Backgammon certainly deserved its own Theme. I first started making sketches about one year ago (in 1999) but I couldn't quite get it down pat. So I put the idea on the shelf for about six months. I then created the wallpaper, regular 3 icons and since I am not programmer, I couldn't make the screen saver. Local guys could not help me {:o(. It was a really bad attempt and I deleted it. Finally, at the end of '99 everything started to fall into place. The whole idea gathered momentum and the first samples were created. I also wanted to make this Theme very special by shaping it into a kind of Backgammon encyclopedia. It includes resources to useful information, cool graphics and music and sounds. On the right side of the desktop sits a button called Kezan's Choice. If you click on it, a menu appears containing a list of Backgammon-related categories and each topic then opens to a separate sub-menu section with another click. These contain important Internet links on each subject. This is a concise resource of very useful BG info that will save you many hours at search engines. Backgammon is a game that in certain eras of history was played
exclusively by the upper class society such as nobles and royalty, and very often, honor
and money were involved (see the rules and history section in my Choice Links). |
|
- Author of Theme - Dean Kezan | Enjoy the New Experience! |
Installation should be very simple as it is a
self-extracting file which will copy all files to their correct destination which is in
the directory: program files\plus\theme After extraction, the program will automatically call your default Theme Program and Install it for you. However, some things will not work if you are using the regular Windows Theme program that comes with Win98. This is same program that comes with Microsoft Plus for Win95. If you download "DeskTop Architect" you will avoid headaches if you decide that you don't want download it there is manual way but much harder and it takes time |
Kezan's Backgammon1_20.Theme |
It should go in your Theme Directory (e.g. "c:\Program Files\Plus\Theme") This file usually contains everything needed for your default Theme Program to manage all files. |
Wallpaper.htm |
This is an Image file that is used for background decoration on your desktop. In this case, it is an HTML file using Macromedia ShockWave (Ver. 4). So if you don't have it you will have to install it or download it. Manually, you can install it just like any other wallpaper by going to (Control Panel/Display/Background), then go to browse and find Wallpaper.htm (It should be in your theme directory in Kezan's Backgammon\Background). This file consists of five Images related to Backgammon, randomly loaded whenever you turn on or reboot your computer so that you get a variety of wallpapers. On the right side, you will see the "Kezan's Choice" button. When you click on it, you will get a menu with useful links. If you click just above the "Kezan's Choice" button, you can clear all opened Menus. Also read possible errors in this issue. Images are 1024x768 so theoretically they will display best at this resolution but in reality there are no differences between resolutions and the aspect ratio also remains the same |
10 Backgammon Commandments | This first idea was taken from the Norwegian Backgammon Club and translated with some
modifications to English by Morten
Wang. I found this very interesting and I wanted to put it as wallpaper but I realized
that there are more important things to add. So of ten commandments 3 or 4 have a similar
meaning while the rest are new. It is nice as joke but at the same time can be taken as
serious ideas to follow and respect. Think about it. With this occasion, I would like to give special thanks to Michael Strato (GammonVillage Editor) for his help in the realization of this graphic. |
Don't Drink And Play or Drive | I got this idea while I was playing online. I was in a match with a high-rated player when he suddenly made a senseless blunder. So I asked him: "What is going on, on the other side of wire?" He said: "I had tough day so now I am drinking scotch and try to have some fun." Well indeed, the situation can look strange if you are looking through glass. Message is clear that it can be fatal for you in both cases. Especially if money is involved. |
Royal Game Of UR- Sumerian Senet - Egyptian Duodecim Scripta & Tabula - Roman |
I did some research on history of Backgammon and found contradicting data as to how
old the game is; 2,000-5,000 years old. Through further research, I discovered that
certain games might have been early variants. The only problem was that I couldn't find
any pictures so I decide to make graphics based on photos, explanations and sketches. It
is remarkable that the rules for Senet were never found; actually, almost nothing but a
few wooden boards and one painted (on stone) in a tomb. So people tried to figure out how
it was played. Today, two major sets of rules exist with different variations. For the
Sumerian version the same applies. The Romans also had two versions, the first consisting
of twelve lines and the second bearing similarity to Senet. The second Roman version's
board was wider; otherwise it was very similar to the game, as we know it today, but with
slightly different rules. If you would like to read some interesting stories and anecdotes
on Backgammon throughout history, follow the links in this Help file and the desktop, as
well as the local bookstore. Links and Books used to make this graphic: |
BG Arrow.cur |
BG Pen.cur |
All cursors are 3D in one shade of gold. Usually, computers have professional cursors designed for precision. In my theme, attempts to make all cursors animated have been abandoned. I am using min. 1024x768 (cursors are big) and 256 colors. All cursors should be the default theme directory\Kezan's Backgammon\Cursors and they work under all Windows. |
Kezan.dll |
All icons are made in 3D and are available in different sizes if you setup big icons (
in Control Panel\Display\Effect\Use Large Icons ) they will not be blurred but instead
sharp and colorful. If you are using a regular Theme Program you will not be able to use this ability. Or you will have to get "DeskTop Architect" or another program that will manipulate system Icons such as Microlangelo. You have the prepared Motif file that will arrange all Icons using Microlangelo. Icons are in your default theme directory\Kezan's Backgammon\Icons in Kezan.dll file, there are 47 unique icons. |
WvLeft.bmp |
Web Graphic consists of three files and uses Explorer as a small graphic in left corner (default is Microsoft's sky), line also in top-left corner and a bigger graphic in the so called dangerous folders as windows, program files etc. "DeskTop Architect" will manage these files without a problem. But if you don't use it, or if you have another, you can do it manually. Simply find in your windows directory "web" directory and make backup of your present files: "Wvleft.bmp", "Wvline.gif", "WvLogo.gif" (or copy it to another folder or just change extension e.g."Wvleft.old") and copy all files from graphic directory (theme\Kezan's Backgammon\Graphic) to windows\web directory. This method will work on all Windows (95,98,NT,2000) if Internet Explorer 4.xx and above is installed. |
Logo.sys |
Logo Screens are screens that show up at Windows startup and shutdown. Again, installation of these files can be made by a variety of programs. My personal choice would again be "DeskTop Architect" but you can do it manually. In your root directory (e.g. c:\) find Logo.sys, but do not panic if it wasn't installed before any Logo Screens. You should rename it or back up it. So from your theme directory\Kezan's Backgammon\Logo copy Logo.sys in your root directory. Also you have to do it again in your windows directory for "Logow.sys" and "Logos.sys". If you own newer generation motherboards which automatically shutdown your computer than Log Off screen will be too fast so you will not be able to see it {:o). |
Screen Saver has its own installation so you will have to install it to work. The
primary idea is to learn opening rolls, well, maybe it is not best solution because it
starts probably when you are not present at computer but it can be very interesting for
your colleagues at work. The major function will work if you are using older type of
monitor it will save from phosphorescence. ScreenSaver was compiled with ScreenWeaver 2 Installation is simple. Just click on the left side link "Install
it !!!" or you can do it manually. |
All sounds were
recorded for Backgammon Theme only. |
||
BG Asterisk.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Asterisk |
BG Close.wav | Sound of Backgammon board closing - Dean Kezan | Close Program |
BG Critical.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Critical Stop |
BG Default.wav | Voice - Katherine Strato | Default Sound |
BG Exclamation.wav | Voice - Katherine Strato | Exclamation |
BG Empty.wav | Shuffle and Rolling Dice - Dean Kezan | Empty Recycle Bin |
BG Exit Win.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Exit Windows |
BG Maximize.wav | Sound of Rolling Dice - Dean Kezan | Maximize |
BG Menu Command.wav | Sound of Checker - Dean Kezan | Menu Command |
BG Menu Popup.wav | Sound of Taking Dice - Dean Kezan | Menu PopUp |
BG Minimize.wav | Sound of Checker - Dean Kezan | Minimize |
BG NewMail.wav | Voice -Micahel Strato | New Mail |
BG Open.wav | Sound of Backgammon board opening - Dean Kezan | Open Program |
BG Program Error.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Program Error |
BG Restore Down.wav | Sound of dice and putting them in Cup - Dean Kezan | Restore Down |
BG RestoreUp.wav | Sound of thrown checker - Dean Kezan | Restore Up |
BG RingIn.wav | Sound of ringing phone - Dean Kezan | Ring In |
BG RingOut.wav | Sound of ringing signal - Dean Kezan | Ring Out |
BG Question.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Question |
BG Start Win.wav | Voice - Michael Strato | Start Windows |
If you like music or movies and you are interested what is where on ladder you can always check it on updated Amazon Ladder |
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HotBar Skins will decorate your Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator as Windows
Explorer. Copy those two files in HotBar directory ( c:\Program Files\HotBar ) and click
on left side links. If you don't have HotBar directory you can make one and copy those files in to it or if this is too difficult for you you can install it from Skin Pages ( skin1 and skin2 ) Please note that system can crash if you install skin for the first time. After crash everything will work normal again |
Version 1.10 ? What happened to Ver. 1.0? Version 1.0 was pretty buggy and really just a test of ideas existing in my head. So I fixed the bugs and thus Version 1.10. |
Version 1.20 - Updated Icons are much more smoother and more colorful |
Honor
+ Soft Ware Well, what does this
actually mean? Every part of this theme was made with a purpose. A lot of time and effort were involved. The Theme is not only for those that already know and love this game but also for newcomers interested in learning more about Internet Backgammon resources. When I set out to make the theme, I strived to not only make the beautiful graphic but to be amusing when possible. At the same time, I also wanted it to be useful and educational. This is my way of promoting the game of Backgammon while including a little bit of fantasy. I would kindly ask you to purchase it to support my and others people work (Logo screens, Web Graphic, Wallpaper, Screen Saver, Icons, Cursors, Hot Bars, Sound and Color Scheme). Payment details can be found on the Secured Site and to keep the Theme and be eligible for upgrades, please make your payment within seven days after downloading. You will receive password and other important details within 24 hours after your payment. Thank You. Registered users will be notified by e-mail about any updates or novelties introduced in future projects and they will be able to send in suggestions or express their desire for additions. They can also a surprise in their e-mail at the beginning of November. This will be good investment for you if you are backgammonholic. The symptoms and medical treatment can be found at newest medical encyclopaedia. We will post it ASAP after receiving permission to use it. Thank You In Advance, |
I did everything as you said and I don't hear sounds? Well the catch is that you didn't installed Microsoft NetShow Player when you installed Windows98. You can install it by downloading it at the Microsoft page or by checking your shareware CD's from around 09/97. The key point is that Windows need ACM Wave Form decoder. |
Sound on Windows start is cutoff? When Windows is starting it load all drivers and devices while checking if it is possible that some of installed devices are not turn on, try to turn all devices (scanner, ZIP, etc) on. |
When I start my computer there is nothing as wallpaper? The Flash 4 isn't installed. You must install it because your computer requires this plug in and will suggest that you to do it at the Macromedia web site. |
When I start my computer Backgrounds are changing continuously,is this your idea of interactivity? Well the problem is that your computer didn't recognize that needs Flash 4 and you have installed Flash 3 so it work but not as should. Install Flash ShockWave 4 player. |
It take ages to fade out first image and to fade in new image??? -This is related to your video card or drivers. Try installing new drivers. -In Control Panel/Display/Effect turn on "Hide icons when the desktop is viewed as a Web page" -Turn off wallpaper and in Web tab (Control Panel/Display/Web) press New. Windows will ask you would you like to connect to MS Gallery ,No. Now you will be able to browse. Choose Wallpaper.htm (Default Theme Directory\Kezan's Backgammon\Backgrounds\Wallpaper.htm. Now windows added to desktop and it is small. With little patience you will resize it and make proper position. Now it works perfectly. - The proof is that if you turn off 3d acceleration it will work without any troubles ( Panel/ Display/ Settings/ Advance/ Performance/ Hardware acceleration - 0 ) or click here even if you still have troubles. |
When I Restore Down or Close Program, Window is going very slowly ??? In Control Panel/Display/Effect turn on "Hide icons when the desktop is viewed as a Web page" and put icons in task bar. |
Icons are messed up, it shows icon just from other program ??? It is because of the Icon Cache all you have to do is reload the theme file again and cache will be also reload. Everything should work as before. |
- www.kezan-design.com/backgammon/support.htm |