diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1b5d013 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,62 @@ +# Anti-M + +Boot ROM-limited games on any Apple II. + +## What is this? + +Many early Apple II games only worked on the original Apple II or Apple ][+. +They refuse to boot on later models, often displaying an "M" error code. This +was due to overly aggressive copy protection; late in the boot process, there is +code that checksums the ROM and reboots if it's not recognized. The games +themselves would work fine if they were allowed to boot past this ROM check. + +Anti-M is a pre-booter that controls the games' bootloader long enough to bypass +the ROM check, allowing you to play these games on any Apple II. + +## How do I use it? + +Boot the Anti-M disk. When it prompts you to insert your original disk, do so, +then press ``. The game should boot normally. + +## Which games are supported? + +Gebelli Software: + +- Eggs-It +- Horizon V +- High Orbit +- Lazer Silk +- Neptune +- Phaser Fire +- Russki Duck +- Zenith + +Broderbund Software: + +- Choplifter (*) +- Dueling Digits +- Labyrinth +- Seafox +- Serpentine (*) +- Sky Blazer +- Star Blazer + +(*) later re-released with different copy protection. Only the first release +requires Anti-M. + +## Does Anti-M patch my original disk? + +No! All patches are done in memory only. If you reboot your original disk +(without running Anti-M), it will fail as usual, because the ROM check is still +there. + +## Can I use Anti-M from a hard drive? + +Yes! Copy the `ANTI.M.SYSTEM` file to anywhere on your ProDOS hard drive and run +it with your favorite launcher. + +## History + +2019-03-09 + +- initial release