Summary
Antheads: It Came from the Desert II is a cult classic that combines adventure, strategy, and action in a unique 1950s setting, renowned for its engaging narrative and atmospheric gameplay.
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
- Platforms: Amiga
- Developers: Cinemaware
- Publishers: Cinemaware
Introduction
Antheads: It Came from the Desert II brings players back to the eerie town of Lizard Breath for another encounter with the monstrous ants, blending cinematic storytelling with engaging gameplay.
Synopsis
In this game, you play as Brick Nash, who has stolen plutonium and prevented nuclear tests in the desert. As a result, the people are mad at you because they didn’t get any money, but some are friendly like Biff and Dusty.
The inhabitants of the region are far more interested in the substantial amounts of money, which pour in by means of the nuclear test program sponsored by the government. Even the strange stories that are heard about the hospital in Melville are not taken seriously, as everyone hastily adapts to the “atomic” future.
The original game, “It Came From the Desert”, is an action-adventure game by Cinemaware. It was inspired by dozens of 1950s monster movies, especially the 1954 mutant-ant classic “Them!”, with the title referencing the 1953 horror film, “It Came from Outer Space”. The player assumes the role of Dr. Greg Bradley who comes to remote Lizard Breath, California on June 1, 1951. As a geologist, he wants to study a meteor crash site somewhere in the desert south-west of the small town. Early in the game, he learns that the radiation of the meteor has enlarged a local ant population to an enormous size, however few take his observations seriously. Worried that the ants will soon multiply and spread, he must work against a ticking clock and devise a plan to stop the ants from terrorizing the world.
Characters
The game features a diverse cast, including Brick Nash, the protagonist, Dr. Wells, the scientist with knowledge of the ants, and various townsfolk, each with their own stories and secrets.
Gameplay
Gameplay alternates between investigative exploration and action sequences, with a co-op mode that allows for collaborative play. Players must make decisions that influence the outcome of the story, adding depth to the interactive experience.
Conclusion
Antheads: It Came from the Desert II remains a unique and memorable title in the adventure game genre, offering a blend of storytelling, strategy, and action that still attracts a dedicated fan base.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
Fan Art
Fan Art Style: Normal
Fan Art Style: Retro
Fan Art Style: Modern
