<!--
	Title: InfoNews Roundup
	Source: The New Zork Times, v3(3)
	Date: Summer 1984
	Transcription by Steve Derby
-->

## New Packaging

Infocom has been known for its remarkable packaging since it began
selling *Zork I*. At the time, software was sold in plastic bags, often with
mimeographed manuals. Along came Infocom with full-color, professionally
produced blister packs.

Over time, Infocom packaging became more and more noteworthy.
*Deadline™* -– with its police file full of reports, clues, photo, and even
pills found near the body – was another software packaging breakthrough.
Next to appear were *Starcross™*, in its distinctive "flying
saucer," and *Suspended™*, with the white mask which catches attention
from 50 feet away. *Planetfall™*, *Witness™*, *Enchanter™*, *Infidel™*,
*Sorcerer™*, and *Seastalker™* were a bit less far-out in appearance and
shape, but continued Infocom's tradition of interesting and useful
package elements.

Now we have taken the next step. We believe that we have created the
most innovative package in the industry. Measuring 9" by 7" by
1", the first thing you will note is that our new packages are consistent in
size and look, without sacrificing any of their individuality. The package
opens like a book to reveal a convenient 24-page "browsie" and improved
technical manual ("browsie" is our term for the section which ties into
the game). The disk and package elements are packed in a re-closable
tray for convenient storage. These packages will store very handsomely
on your shelf.

## Difficulty Ratings

Another improvement you will find on our new packages is the level
of difficulty. We have established four difficulty levels:

**Junior:** Best introduction to interactive fiction. Written for everyone
from age 9 up. (*Seastalker*) Standard: Good introductory level
for adults. This is Infocom's most popular level of interactive fiction.
(*Zork I*, *Enchanter*, *Planetfall*, *Witness*, *Cutthroats*, and *Hitchhiker's*)

**Advanced:** A greater level of challenge. Recommended for those
who've already experienced Infocom's interactive fiction. (*Zork II*,
*Zork III*, *Sorcerer*, *Infidel*, and *Suspect*)

**Expert:** For real diehards seeking the ultimate challenge in interactive
fiction. (*Starcross*, *Suspended*, and *Deadline*)

We expect the designation of difficulty level to make it much easier for
purchasers to choose the appropriate game.

## New Pricing

Effective September 1, Infocom's recommended retail prices have been
changed. This is the first time we have adjusted our prices. The price is
determined by level of difficulty and by computer system. On most
systems, Junior and Standard level games are $39.95, Advanced $44.95,
and Expert $49.95. Commodore 64 and Atari prices are $5 less at all
levels.

## New Catalog

Included with this issue of *The New Zork Times* is our new product
catalog. In it you will notice a preview of our new products for the
fall –- more to come on *Suspect™* and *The Hitchhiker's Guide to the
Galaxy™* in our Fall issue.

## Infocom Sampler

Do you know someone who would love interactive fiction if they would
only try it? Infocom has the answer: The Four-in-One Sampler, including
excerpts from four genres -– *The Witness* (mystery), *Infidel* (Tales of
Adventure), *Planetfall* (science fiction), and *Zork I* (fantasy).

We have found that 9 out of 10 people who try Infocom interactive
fiction love it. Because of this, we are able to make an offer that no one
can refuse. The sampler retails for $7.95 and comes with a money-back
guarantee – if the buyer decides he is not interested, he can send it back to
us for a full refund. If he wants more, there's a coupon enclosed that entitles
him to an $8 rebate on purchase of any Infocom title. He can't lose!