Advanced Ski Simulator (1989)

by Christopher February 5, 2021

written by Christopher February 5, 2021 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1989
Genres: Simulator, Sport
Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
Developers: The Highlanders
Publishers: Codemasters

Advanced Ski Simulator (1989): The Ultimate Skiing Experience

Introduction

Advanced Ski Simulator is a groundbreaking skiing game released in 1989 for the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Amstrad CPC home computers. Developed by British studio Zeppelin Games, it was one of the first games to use 3D graphics to create a realistic skiing experience.

Gameplay

Advanced Ski Simulator features three different game modes:

Downhill: Race against the clock down a variety of challenging slopes.
Slalom: Navigate through a series of gates as quickly as possible.
Giant Slalom: A more difficult version of slalom with wider gates.

Each mode offers multiple difficulty levels, so players of all skill levels can find a challenge. The game also features a variety of different slopes, from gentle beginner hills to steep expert runs.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Advanced Ski Simulator’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game used a 3D engine to create a realistic skiing environment, complete with detailed mountains, trees, and skiers. The game’s sound effects were also impressive, with the sound of skis gliding over snow and the wind whistling past the player’s ears.

Reception

Advanced Ski Simulator was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s realistic graphics, smooth gameplay, and challenging difficulty. The game was also a hit with consumers, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Advanced Ski Simulator is considered to be one of the greatest skiing games ever made. It was one of the first games to use 3D graphics to create a realistic skiing experience, and it set the standard for future skiing games. The game is still enjoyed by retro gamers today, and it remains a popular choice for those who want to experience the thrill of skiing without having to leave their home.

Advanced Ski Simulator: Behind the Scenes

The game was developed by a small team of just four people.
The game’s graphics were created using a custom-built 3D engine.
The game’s sound effects were recorded in a real ski resort.
The game was originally going to be called “Ski or Die,” but the name was changed to avoid confusion with another game with the same name.

Advanced Ski Simulator: Tips and Tricks

To go faster, tuck down by holding the down button.
To turn, use the left and right arrow keys.
To jump, press the up button.
To perform a backflip, press the down button and then the up button.
To perform a frontflip, press the up button and then the down button.

Conclusion

Advanced Ski Simulator is a classic skiing game that still holds up today. Its realistic graphics, smooth gameplay, and challenging difficulty make it a must-play for fans of skiing games and retro gaming. If you’re looking for a great way to experience the thrill of skiing without having to leave your home, then Advanced Ski Simulator is the game for you.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.