4 replies to this topic

[SPencil]

Because unfortunately, CryEngine uses DirectX. And since Microsoft isn't willing to port it, we are SOL and JWF.

I know that a minority of us use one of the many distributions of Linux and Unix that are around, and while these OS' are very powerful, we will be forced to use Windows to run MWO. A tragedy, I know, but maybe one of these days we might convince the devs to completely rebuild the game using OpenGL.

Stomping mechs' shouldn't be limited to just Windows

[Hyzoran]

Cause Microsoft owns the license for Mechwarrior and forbid pgi from making it availible on other OSs.

[SPencil]

The license isn't in the hands of Microsoft anymore, I'm pretty sure that Smith & Tinker have it but Microsoft is still part of the problem.

The issue is specifically a technical one. As I said, CryEngine is built upon the DirectX API, which Microsoft refuses to port. Making MWO playable on Linux / Unix / Mac would require a completely different engine, one that relies on OpenGL. The game would need to be completely rebuilt, which I doubt the devs would do. Had they continued with the Unreal Engine, it could be done.

But since the game is being developed with CryEngine, MechWarrior will remain firmly rooted to Windows until someone decides to make a game using OpenGL over DirectX.

Edited by SPencil, 23 February 2013 - 03:16 AM.

[Felicitatem Parco]

Actually, Microsoft still owns the digital rights to Everything MechWarrior, Smith & Tinker were just licensing it to make the Unreal Reboot that never came to fruition... and PGI is still just licensing it, again. Although I don't know if the licensing rights is the reason it won't go mac. The Reboot was killed because MS refused to let the game go onto PS3 (which turned off any interested investors) and I have no doubt they would also prevent it from going Mac... but maybe that's a good question for Ask the Devs 33.

Edited by Prosperity Park, 23 February 2013 - 08:28 AM.

[SPencil]

Interesting, thanks for clarifying that

I'm fairly sure that it's the "DirectX Vs. OpenGL" BS that will stop any port. I'm 99% sure, but I'll pose it as a question anyways. Couldn't hurt.

But thinking about it, the use of DirectX means that an XBox port could potentially be made. I'm certain that it would be much easier for the devs to port MWO to XBox rather then (Mac || Linux || Unix). It would also be a better business decision, since I think it's a safe assumption that there is a wider user base for XBox then there is for (M || L || U).

alright, now I'm definitely bringing this up Thanks for the inspiration