Aspyr Released Quake 4 v1.2 Enabling Dual Core Capability and New Maps

Aspyr Media released an update for Quake 4, which updates any previous version of Quake 4 to version 1.2 (Universal). Get it from MacUpdate.com. or via the game. This official update addresses issues found in both multiplayer and single player since the release of the game, and includes several new multiplayer maps. In addition to the changes and fixes outlined below, this update enables Quake 4 to take advantage of the SMP of Intel Dual Core Processors. Players who have computer systems with this processor will notice significant performance gains in Quake 4. With the update, Macintosh systems with an Intel Dual Core processor, which uses the SMP, will have a performance jump of 15 to 30 percent. We will have to take Apyr's word on this for now because our previously saved benchmark demo does not run under v1.2. We'll have to re-record it.

By DEFAULT, the symmetric multiprocessing (SMP)-based acceleration (which is the feature that enables the performance increase) is DISABLED. If you have a system with multiple CPUs or cores, they can be enabled under Settings->System->Advanced Options. Then quit the game and re-launch it.

Here are the new Multiplayer maps:

Outpatient (q4dm10) -
Cold, blood-stained hallways and flickering fluorescent lights set the mood in this once active Strogg medical complex. The heart-pounding pace of this map will keep players racing through the winding corridors, but only the quickest will survive. In addition to traditional DM, Outpatient can also be played in Team Deathmatch and Tourney modes.

Skeleton Crew (q4dm11) -
The dark empty void that surrounds this stranded space station offers no pity for those lost in battle. This multi level arena generates fast paced action that commands the attention of players in all skill levels. Expert navigation of the twists and turns that lead from deck to deck will be your only ally. Engage your foes in Deathmatch or Team Deathmatch games. As an added challenge you can also battle it out 1v1 style in Tourney mode.

Mind the Gap (q5ctf6) -
This massive processing factory uses alien technology to mine from the core of Stroggos itself - be sure to Mind The Gap in each base which only leads to an inescapable abyss and your death. This multi-tiered structure defies description and will leave only the heartiest and most cunning soldiers as the victors! Contest your team’s supremacy in CTF or Arena CTF modes.

Double Edged (q4ctf8) -
Double Edged revisits the Quake II(tm) classic… with a twist - Capture the Flag! The battle arena has been doubled so brush up on your long range weapon skills, but don’t fret if your Rail isn’t exactly "impressive." You’ll also find some tight corridors for those of you more comfortable with in-your-face combat. Destined to be a classic in its own right, settle those team grudge matches in this remix of a classic in CTF or Arena CTF battle.

Campgrounds Redux (q4dm9) -
With QUAKE 4's updated technology, Campgrounds Redux now has a fresh look and feel, revitalizing this QUAKE III(tm) classic. Excellent for any number of players, this updated version supports Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch and Tournament modes, where hard-core QUAKE fans can get crazy with this throw-back to one of their old favorites.

Railed (q4tourney1) -
Set in an abandoned, rusting Strogg facility, the environment in Railed produces fast-paced frenetic tournament style action! This new map is all about close-quarters combat and hair-trigger reflexes as players hustle through the winding, multi-tiered corridors. Designed especially for Tournament play, Railed also supports Deathmatch and Team Deathmatch game modes, and is guaranteed to provide some thrilling fast-action gameplay.

Tremors (q4ctf7) -
Built within a twisting underground cavern and peppered throughout with pipes, bridges, and catwalks, Tremors demands tactical expertise. Enemies attack from above and below in the enormous, multi-tiered environment, making team-play invaluable. Tremors is perfect for huge Capture-The-Flag games, and also supports the Arena Capture-The-Flag gameplay mode.

We're glad to see some larger maps like "Double Edged" were added. [Bill Fox]