Hi guys,
We realize that the launch of Command & Conquer 3 hasn’t been completely smooth, and while some initial bumps are to be expected for most software releases, we want you to know that we’re actively working on addressing all the issues that are being reported online as possible in the form of a 1.2 patch, which we intend to release in the next 12-24 hours. Here’s what that patch will address:
1. Disconnects or freezes in the game lobbies
We’ve noticed that the game can sometimes hang for a bit, freeze altogether, or boot players back out to the main menu when they’re simply chatting in the online lobbies. GameSpy addressed part of the problem by implementing a server-side change late last night, and the frequency of this problem seems to have significantly diminished. However, we do know that some people are still experiencing this problem, and we are investigating several options to tackle this issue on our end as well. We’re hoping that the 1.2 patch will have additional fixes for this lobby hang/freeze problem.
2. Frequent lobby refresh
The game lobbies are refreshing themselves very frequently right now, which makes clicking on and joining games somewhat frustrating because of the constantly shifting/resetting scrollbar. This issue will be fixed in the 1.2 patch.
3. Updated patcher
The patch itself will update the Command & Conquer 3 patch utility to ensure that the problems encountered with the 1.1 patch don’t happen again in the future. Specifically, some users weren’t prompted to download the 1.1 patch automatically when they went online in the game or clicked on the Check for Updates button on the Command & Conquer 3 Control Center. This fix should prevent that from happening again.
As previously mentioned, this patch should be ready for launch in about 12-24 hours. We’ll have an automated downloadable version, as well as a self-extracting patch for those that wish to install it manually. We’ll have an updated ETA on 1.2 a little later on today.
Additionally, we’re tracking other issues that are unrelated to the forthcoming patch.
1. Sluggish reporting of match results
Many games are taking longer than anticipated to report their results (up to two hours) to the ranked and unranked 1v1 and 2v2 ladders. We are weighing several potential solutions to address this problem on our end, though the most likely fix for this issue will come from GameSpy in the form of a server-side change that will go live sometime this evening.
2. Registration problems
A small number of users have noted problems while attempting to register. Command & Conquer 3 uses an application called EREG to register the game, and EREG requires Flash to be installed on the user’s machine. If you’re experiencing a crash with EREG, make sure that you have the latest version of Macromedia Flash installed on your computer.
3. Inability to connect to Command & Conquer Online
If you’ re having trouble connecting the game online, make sure that Command & Conquer 3 is included in your router’s firewall exemption list (you may have to set this manually). Likewise, some virus protection software many interfere with the game’s ability to go online, so you may want to try disabling any such software that you have running in the background. Lastly, reference the game’s readme for instructions on how to open up additional ports on your router if you continue to have trouble connecting to Command & Conquer Online.
Again, thanks for bearing with us. We appreciate your patience as we get through the initial teething of Command & Conquer 3.
-Predator
