Version problems (packed vs unpacked)

[Emiliano]

Can anybody explain me what are the differences between a packed and an unpacked executable?
I still don't find any working difference…
Thanks, whoever you are

[Norbert]

Can anybody explain me what are the differences between a packed and an unpacked executable?
I still don't find any working difference…

Generally/by default, executable programs (EXE files) are not compressed. Originally, the DOS executable of Prince of Persia was compressed with Microsoft EXEPACK. That compressed version is referred to as "packed"; software can unpack (uncompress) it if necessary. Compression makes the executable smaller in size, and makes it more difficult to manipulate the workings of the program. Possible reasons why they compressed PoP are:

• To stay within the storage constraints of low capacity (and slow) floppy disks.
• To require less time for distribution over slow (and expensive) Internet.
• To deter reverse engineering (deconstruction of the program for analysis).

You won't notice the difference when playing PoP. But you may notice the difference when using CusPop (fewer options if you choose packed) or when using level editors (although apoplexy auto-unpacks executables; you will see a brief pop-up if this happens).

[David]

To require less time for distribution over slow (and expensive) Internet.

Was PoP officially distributed over the internet?
Maybe the demo version was, but I don't think the full version was officially distributed online.