PetrusOctavianus: The first post only makes a long list of the changes, so I assume the patch is meant for those who know the game in and out? I wish there was something about the "philosophy" or intent behind the patch, and why it's needed.
So, should a MoO virgin use the patch or not?
I will try an answer myself (being author of the patch), others may say their opinion.
- Short version: the patch is not crucial for a good gaming experience with MoO. Not at all necessary for a "virgin" to enjoy the game
- Long version: This was my first project. The philosophy was, to (a) eliminate the bugs present in the game and (b) to improve the AI. As for the (a), I succeeded, but the bugs in the original are not very important or relevant. There's one big fish, as the REFIT does not function. But players became accustomed to it, and it - sort of - brings a new challenge into the game as well. As for the (b), AI could be a lot better, I mean really really good. But as it was my first project, I did not know at the time, how to improve the AI radically. I still have plans... hopefully one day, I can respond here and say, with the patch, the AI will challenge your braincells to the maximum. So, unlike the other patches I have made, this one is less important. It improves the AI a bit (but it's not really necessary as impossible level will test any player), it pushes away a few minor bugs.
Anyway, if you're MoO virgin... I wish you spend your time well with this game. It seems to be very simple on the surface, but it's incredibly hard to master. One of the best, timeless classic.