From: [email protected] (Steve Wolff)
Newsgroups: rec.games.video.sony
Subject: Don't say I didn't Contribute
Date: Fri, 07 Feb 1997 23:31:54 -0700


                  Net Yaroze FAQ
                  ==============
                  V 1.1 (970207)
              (Last Update: 970117)

(c)1997 Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA)

Compiled by: Bill Rehbock, John Phua, Don Thomas,
            Brian Dawson, Greg LaBrec, Mike Fulton,
            Peter Alau, Sarah Lodge and Molly Smith.

Information herein applies to North America only. Any
tradenames used within this document are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their owning companies.

  ===============================================

NOTE: MOST COMMON QUESTION OF ALL...
     How do I register my interest in Net Yaroze?

     E-Mail: [email protected]
                    (U.S. and Canada only)
             [email protected]
                    (All of Europe and Australia
                     including France, Germany, Norway,
                     Switzerland and U.K.)
             [email protected]
                    (Japan)


    Sections
    --------
 I. HOW, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE
II. COST, PAYMENTS, CONDITIONS
III. TECHNICAL
IV. COMPLETED WORK
 V. WHERE DO I SIGN-UP?


             I. HOW, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE
                ----------------------

Q. What does Net Yaroze mean? How is it pronounced?

A. YAROZE (yarozei), or phonetically (ya row zey) vb. means
  "let's do it together" or "let's work together" in
  Japanese. The term embraces the Net Yaroze concept of
  getting members to work together and share their work to
  reach meaningful objectives in what they do.

Q. When will Net Yaroze be available in the U.S. and Canada?

A. Net Yaroze is currently targeted for release within the
  U.S. and Canada by late March 1997. It is possible this
  may change. Interested persons should make certain they
  register their interest so that they are automatically
  updated when news becomes available.

Q. Is Net Yaroze planned for Mexico?

A. We want to support and service programmers in Mexico,
  however, plans to do so are not in place at this time.

Q. Can I license the U.S. version of Net Yaroze to be
  shipped outside of the U.S. or Canada?

A. Sony Computer Entertainment America will not accept
  international transactions. Interested persons outside of
  North America will be referred to other Sony facilities
  for support if they exist for that region. See the answer
  to the most popular question of all at the top of this
  document.

Q. What is the difference between Net Yaroze and a
  professional developers' program?

A. SCEA's professional developers' program is much more
  intensive. The commercial package includes a more
  detailed level of hardware/software tools, hardware with
  greater RAM capacity, an in-depth array of on-site
  assistance and on-call technical help.

Q. Why?

A. The professional PlayStation development system includes
  additional hardware and software tools; more in-depth
  library api; a full developer support program which
  includes on-site assistance and on-call technical help.
  The Net Yaroze PlayStation development system provides a
  simple and easily understood development environment by
  providing a subset of the libraries and tools of the
  professional development system.

Q. How will the Net Yaroze system differ from the Japanese
  version?

A. All the basic elements provided in the Net Yaroze program
  are universal with the exception of translated text
  within support materials and the Internet address where
  members go for support.

Q. So, U.S. Japanese and European users will not be able to
  trade tips and games.

A. SCEA will be devising ways for information to cross-
  pollinate between support sites. Until that happens
  automatically, SCEA will help transport files between
  systems to benefit all members.

Q. Hardware-wise, how is the Net Yaroze unit different from
  the North American PlayStation which is sold in stores?

A. The retail (gray) North American PlayStation hardware
  unit can only play commercially developed PlayStation
  game titles from licensed PlayStation developers and
  publishers. The Yaroze hardware offers no territorial
  lock-out, which means that that it can play both PAL
  (Europe) and NTSC (Japan, U.S.) PlayStation discs.
  However, the user will need a multi-format TV to play all
  of these properly.

Q. Won't Net Yaroze have either an S-Video or an A/V
  out? If so, won't that straight video be correctly
  interpreted by the TV no matter what format it is in?

A. S-Video, Composite, etc. are all different ways to
  deliver the same signal, regardless of whether it is NTSC
  or PAL. The Net Yaroze system detects whether the
  software is intended for NTSC or PAL and outputs the
  appropriate signal. You will need a monitor which is also
  capable of handling either signal if you wish to use
  software for both formats.

Q. Will Net Yaroze be available in stores?

A. Net Yaroze is an extension of the services provided by
  SCEA's Research & Development department. In many ways,
  Net Yaroze members become a part of SCEA's R&D
  activities. This unique relationship with Sony on a
  developer level will not be available from any
  independent retailer to insure members get support direct
  from SCEA and no where else. In short, Net Yaroze is not
  a mass market product and will not be available from
  retailers.

Q. Where can I get support while a member of Net Yaroze?

A. Net Yaroze integrates a World Wide Web Site with support
  areas, file download areas, message areas and more. No
  live telephone support is available as part of the Net
  Yaroze program. Access to the Web Site is limited to one
  year and renewable for a modest fee.

Q. What kind of fee?

A. That information has not been determined and is
  forthcoming.

Q. How long will Net Yaroze be offered? Is this a limited
  time offer?

A. SCEA is committed to offer the Net Yaroze system for as
  long as there is there is demand for it. Based on initial
  feedback, we expect that may very well be for a very
  long time.

Q. I have a Web Site or I am a magazine writer and want to
  interview someone about Net Yaroze. Who should I contact?

A. Contact Molly Smith by e-mail at:
  [email protected]

  Note, this address is for the press only. Non-press
  inquiries will not receive replies.

Q. May I post this FAQ file on my web site?

A. This document may be redistributed in whole in any
  environment that is supportive of Net Yaroze and Sony
  Computer Entertainment America.


             II. COST, PAYMENTS, CONDITIONS
                 --------------------------

Q. How much does Net Yaroze cost?

A. Net Yaroze will be available for $750 in North America
  plus applicable taxes and shipping. Other costs may be
  associated to using Net Yaroze if the developer does not
  have other tools that may be required such as a personal
  computer or, perhaps, a more robust C compiler than the
  one provided.

Q. Can I save any money if I already own a PlayStation?

A. The Net Yaroze black PlayStation is different from those
  sold in stores. It is not interchangeable for
  development purposes.

Q. Can I purchase more than one Net Yaroze PlayStation?

A. The unique PlayStation designed for the Net Yaroze
  program is not for sale as a typical consumer product.
  Although the special PlayStation is sold to the
  purchaser, some components of the system are licensed for
  use and not sold. SCEA cannot offer these components
  separately accept as advised by SCEA if any component is
  ever in need of repair.

  It is perfectly acceptable for one individual to obtain
  more than one for unique applications, however each one
  must be registered separately and all terms and fees
  remain the same for each.

Q. Can I purchase the Net Yaroze PlayStation for resale?

A. Net Yaroze is a developers network available and serviced
  directly by Sony Computer Entertainment America. It will
  not be licensed to any party for the purpose of resale.

Q. So, I can only sign-up for Net Yaroze from Sony Computer
  Entertainment America?

A. Within the United States and Canada, yes. Members will
  demand and expect support tools which can only be made
  available under license directly from SCEA.

Q. Why does Net Yaroze cost as much as it does?

A. Net Yaroze is an economical version of professional
  packages which are licensed for many, many thousands of
  dollars. Net Yaroze includes all the essential elements
  of a comprehensive development package plus support tools
  have been streamlined to bring the price down to a level
  that dedicated enthusiasts and aspiring developers can
  afford. Net Yaroze is not a toy. It should be considered
  only by those people wishing to seriously engage in
  software development projects.

Q. Will SCEA accept planned payments?

A. Sony Computer Entertainment America will only ship
  Net Yaroze products when paid in full. SCEA will not have
  a financing program available.

Q. What forms of payment will SCEA accept?

A. It is anticipated that American Express, Discover, Visa
  and MasterCard may be used to pay the required licensing
  fees. Of course, money orders and cashier checks are
  always welcome.

Q. Is Net Yaroze refundable if I don't like it?

A. Net Yaroze is not a mass market consumer item and will
  not be available on any trial basis. SCEA will stand
  behind every unit from a manufacturing point of view,
  honoring any warranty (90 days) issue that may arise. On
  the other hand, Net Yaroze is a license. The black
  PlayStation is just one small part of the entire
  agreement to share information. It is not refundable and
  members are held accountable for their agreement to
  protect proprietary information shared with them. Those
  interested in Net Yaroze should consider their investment
  carefully in advance.


             III. TECHNICAL
                  ---------

Q. What else is required to develop software using
  Net Yaroze?

A. A 486 DX2 66MHz IBM-compatible personal computer with one
  or more serial ports, 28.8 bps speed modem, an Internet
  connection, 2X CD-ROM, 10MB of hard disk space, 4MB of
  RAM, mouse and an SVGA monitor is minimally required for
  Net Yaroze. In addition, members will need to be familiar
  with the operation of such a computer as well as a basic
  background using the C programming language and the
  ability to access the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  SCEA does not offer any training for using a computer or
  the use of the programming language.

Q. Why 66MHz? How about on slower systems?

A. We recommend a minimum of 66MHz for optimum performance.
  Choosing any configuration other than the minimums
  recommended are at the developer's risk.

Q. Can I use the Yaroze system on my Macintosh?

A. Yes. The Net Yaroze system can run on an Apple Macintosh
  with the aid of a complete development environment called
  CodeWarrior designed by Metrowerks Corporation. They also
  provide the same software development environment for
  Windows 95/NT. More information will become available
  soon.

Q. Are the Net Yaroze tools DOS-based or Windows-based.

A. Two utility programs supplied with the system are
  Windows-based. Otherwise, the entire system is DOS-based.

Q. Can I use international CDs on a Net Yaroze PlayStation?

A. One of the "special" features of the black Net Yaroze
  PlayStation is its ability to play software distributed
  anywhere in the world.

Q. Can anyone with a PlayStation play the games I write?

A. Net Yaroze applications are only capable of being
  executed by other Net Yaroze members who have a black
  developers' PlayStation; however, the use of Net Yaroze
  applications will be strictly subject to the terms of a
  license agreement. Net Yaroze developer's applications
  are shared only on the Net Yaroze Web Site.

Q. How long does it take for a competent person to learn "C"
  as a programming language?

A. That's very similar to asking how long it may take to
  learn to speak French (unless you already know it). It
  depends on your background, how good you want to be, how
  much time per day you allocate to the learning process
  and what learning skills you have. Please do not purchase
  Net Yaroze to learn C. You can learn the same C on a PC
  then consider applying your skills to dedicated platforms
  at a later time. There are no components of the
  Net Yaroze package to teach the use of C.

Q. Do you recommend any specific books, links or resources
  for learning how to program in C?

A. No. Learning how to program requires a lot of effort.
  Many people have learned on their own and many others
  find they need to sign up for formal courses in school.
  SCEA will not attempt to evaluate individuals and their
  abilities to learn programming skills. We highly
  recommend that individuals do not join Net Yaroze unless
  they are already comfortable with the basics in C
  programming and computer use.

Q. Why is "C" the development language on Net Yaroze instead
  of ?C++??

A. C++ may be used, however, C is usually more efficient in
  a game programming environment where active programming
  space may be an important issue.

Q. Why doesn?t Net Yaroze pack-in Borland?s or Microsoft?s
  C++?

A. For a number of reasons. Net Yaroze members are expected
  to come to us with a great variety of skills and
  experience. Many of them will already own a comprehensive
  C++ package. Those individuals would certainly not wish
  to pay more than they have to for Net Yaroze in order to
  purchase the development language again or to purchase
  another one when they have one they are pleased with
  already. In many cases, professional programmers prefer
  not to use versions C++ for platform game development to
  help optimize memory configurations.

  Those who desire an alternative programming language may
  consider one on an optional basis and at their leisure.

Q. Is it true that the code for each Net Yaroze program
  developed cannot be greater than 3.5 MB?

A. Primary RAM in Net Yaroze is 2 megabyte PLUS there are
  secondary RAM locations that grant programmers up to
  3.5 megabyte of working space. Game code, graphics,
  audio samples and run-time libraries are limited to
  3.5 megabyte because Net Yaroze drivers must be
  installed. There are many commercial PlayStation titles
  that are entirely RAM-resident and could have been
  developed with Net Yaroze while using the CD strictly to
  spool Red Book audio (i.e. Ridge Racer by Namco).

  Creative developers apply compression and run-time
  techniques that accomplish virtually anything they strive
  for. Again, Net Yaroze can be used as a professional
  tool, but it is not intended to be as robust as much more
  expensive machines.

Q. How can Net Yaroze programs be made to run on a normal
  (gray) PlayStation?

A. Net Yaroze participants can share their work with other
  Net Yaroze members throughout the world by posting that
  work on SCEA's designated server, Web Site or any other
  location authorized by SCEA. The standard consumer
  PlayStation is not designed to run Net Yaroze titles
  directly. All commercially available PlayStation
  titles are developed by "licensed developers" and
  published by "licensed publishers" using a specialized
  professional PlayStation development environment. Of
  course, Net Yaroze members can eventually apply to become
  a fully licensed commercial developer at any time.

Q. What kind of software can I develop using the Net Yaroze
  development system?

A. Anything! There are virtually no rules. It may be
  something popularly asked for or not have anything to do
  with a game as defined by today's marketplace. SCEA does
  reserve the right to remove samples from the Net Yaroze
  Web Site that is offensive or illegal.

Q. Can I design full-working engines not originally provided
  with Net Yaroze, or am I limited to use the engines
  provided when I join?

A. Net Yaroze members are encouraged to design and share
  their work with other Net Yaroze members including
  engines, graphics, simple/complex routines, programming
  structures, etc.

Q. What kind of software can I develop that is most likely
  to be published commercially?

A. This is hard to answer. On one hand, there seem to
  be enough baseball games already. On the other hand
  someone will create a new baseball game like none other
  before. Successful games seem to be those that offer a
  high degree of immersion and virtual world interaction.
  Sports games need to be fast and lifelike. Fantasy and
  arcade games need to be visually stunning and full of
  surprises. Some developers start with a remake of an old
  favorite and hope they can acquire a license later or
  change it enough to be different such as Doom II or Duke
  Nuke 'em. Other developers begin with a premise that some
  completely new idea is marketable such as Tetris, Klax or
  Zoop.

Q. Is the link cable supported in hardware and software?

A. There are two links that may be referred to by this
  question. There is the serial link to the PC for the
  Net Yaroze package and there is the game link cable
  intended for head-to-head gaming between two different
  PlayStations. In either case, the same PlayStation port
  is used and Net Yaroze does not include library functions
  to directly address either link.

Q. Can I develop a networked application with the Yaroze?

A. Creative and experienced developers will accomplish many
  things using Net Yaroze tools. Many things are possible.
  That's what makes a talented developer valuable. The
  system does not provide library calls for this function.

Q. Are there any restrictions on developing applications
  that are not games?

A. We hope the Net Yaroze program will allow a lot of
  freedom in creativity in regard to what content will be
  created. SCEA does not place restrictions on Net Yaroze
  members as to what kind of applications to develop.

Q. Does Net Yaroze interface with any memory cards?

A. The Net Yaroze package includes the tools needed to
  interface with PlayStation compatible Memory Cards which
  are used in the slots above the controller ports just as
  they are on the commercial versions of the game system.

Q. Can we access the CD to play audio and/or video?

A. During the boot-up of Net Yaroze, a special CD is
  required on the PlayStation that contains information for
  the system. After boot-up, the PlayStation may be used
  to play Red Book audio from a standard audio CD.

  It may be possible to access files on the PC, however, it
  would be up to the developer to devise such protocols if
  such functions are desired.


             IV. COMPLETED WORK
                 --------------

Q. Who owns the rights to software developed written using
  the Net Yaroze system?

A. The original author retains legal ownership of all source
  code that he or she creates as part of Net Yaroze except
  as protected by applicable copyright law. For instance,
  users who create copies of Crash Bandicoot or Asteroids
  cannot assume rights to that work. Individual authors are
  legally responsible for the work in terms of infringement
  of copyright, etc.

  In particular, source code can be freely shared among
  Net Yaroze members as desired by its creators -- in
  accordance with their agreement with SCEA. Indeed, a
  cornerstone of Net Yaroze is the concept of members
  sharing their work and ideas, and participating in joint
  projects. Note that distributed code through the
  Net Yaroze program can only be downloaded by other
  Net Yaroze members throughout the world. To formally
  publish software for all PlayStation owners, Net Yaroze
  members will need to look at becoming licensed as
  commercial developers.

Q. Will my software be published commercially?

A. We hope to publish commercial products containing
  software developed through the Net Yaroze program;
  statiscally, however, it is not very likely that any one
  project will be published.

  Even a great number of projects which begin as commercial
  projects never make it    to store shelves. It would be
  misleading to promise a great likelihood, but many of the
  "big guys" do have modest beginnings. Bear in mind that
  commercial software must be compelling and not infringent
  on anyone else's copyrights.

Q. Is there any interest by Sony in working with companies
  to develop specific applications?

A. SCEA also offers a professional developer program.
  Serious developers should consider whether a hobbyist
  grade package really fits their needs. SCEA will not be
  looking to partner with development programs originating
  from the Net Yaroze program. When commercial grade work
  evolves from Net Yaroze members, SCEA will counsel with
  the developer on an individual basis.

Q. Where should I start if I'm not a programmer?

A. If you are not presently a programmer, Net Yaroze will
  probably not be for you right away. The best thing to do
  would be to purchase some books on programming and a
  BASIC or C programming package for development on the
  computer. You may wish to look into some local college
  courses that may be offered.


             V. WHERE DO I SIGN-UP?
                -------------------

Q. Where can I go for more information?

A. People interested in Net Yaroze can register their
  interest by e-mailing their name, address, phone number
  and email address to:

  [email protected]

  Sony Computer Entertainment America is also developing a
  Web Site in which users can obtain more information about
  Net Yaroze. The address of this site will be announced
  soon. See the top of this document for registering
  interest in other parts of the world.

### END OF FILE ###
(Please feel free to re-post this Q&A file in areas that
support persons interested in Net Yaroze.)

--


[email protected]