Azrael’s Tear (1996)

by Christopher September 4, 2021

written by Christopher September 4, 2021 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1996
Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
Platforms: DOS
Developers: Intelligent Games
Publishers: Mindscape

Azrael’s Tear: A Stealth-Action Classic

Released in 1996, Azrael’s Tear is a stealth-action game that puts players in the role of Raptor, a highly skilled thief tasked with retrieving the Holy Grail. With its challenging levels, tense atmosphere, and innovative gameplay, Azrael’s Tear is a classic that still holds up today.

Gameplay

Azrael’s Tear is a 2D side-scrolling stealth-action game. Players control Raptor as he infiltrates a series of heavily guarded locations in search of the Holy Grail. Raptor is equipped with a variety of gadgets and weapons, including a silenced pistol, lockpicks, and a grappling hook.

The game’s levels are large and complex, with multiple paths and hiding places. Players must use stealth and strategy to avoid detection by guards and security cameras. If Raptor is spotted, he will be forced to fight his way out or escape.

Story

The story of Azrael’s Tear is simple but effective. Raptor is a master thief who has been hired to retrieve the Holy Grail from a heavily guarded castle. Along the way, he must overcome a variety of obstacles, including traps, guards, and rival thieves.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The cutscenes are well-animated and the voice acting is top-notch. The story is engaging and does a good job of keeping players motivated.

Graphics and Sound

Azrael’s Tear’s graphics are impressive for a game released in 1996. The game’s levels are detailed and atmospheric, and the character sprites are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of ambient tracks and suspenseful action cues.

Reception

Azrael’s Tear was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, tense atmosphere, and innovative stealth mechanics. Azrael’s Tear was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Azrael’s Tear is considered to be one of the best stealth-action games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay and tense atmosphere have influenced countless other games in the genre. Azrael’s Tear is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains a classic example of the stealth-action genre.

Conclusion

Azrael’s Tear is a classic stealth-action game that still holds up today. With its challenging levels, tense atmosphere, and innovative gameplay, Azrael’s Tear is a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a classic stealth-action game to play, then you should definitely check out Azrael’s Tear.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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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.