Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE
- Developers: Delphine Software
- Publishers: Delphine Software, Palace Software
Bio Challenge (1988): A Cyborg’s Quest for Survival
Introduction
Bio Challenge is a 2D platformer released in 1988 for the Amiga, Atari ST, and DOS. The game is set in a futuristic world where the human gene code has become increasingly weaker with each generation. In order to save humanity, scientists have created a cyborg named K.L.I.P.T. (Kinetic Lifeform Inhabiting Prosthetic Technology). The player takes on the role of K.L.I.P.T. and must guide him through a series of challenging levels in order to prove his worth and save humanity.
Gameplay
Bio Challenge is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls K.L.I.P.T. as he jumps, shoots, and climbs his way through various levels. The game features a variety of enemies, including robots, aliens, and mutants. K.L.I.P.T. can defeat enemies by shooting them with his laser gun or by using his fists. He can also collect power-ups that give him temporary abilities, such as increased speed or invincibility.
The levels in Bio Challenge are varied and challenging. Some levels require the player to navigate through tight spaces, while others feature fast-paced action sequences. The game also features a number of boss fights, each of which requires a different strategy to defeat.
Graphics and Sound
Bio Challenge features colorful and detailed graphics for its time. The character sprites are well-animated, and the backgrounds are varied and interesting. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of catchy tunes and atmospheric sound effects.
Reception
Bio Challenge was well-received by critics upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and excellent soundtrack. However, some critics found the game to be too difficult, and the lack of a password system was also a common complaint.
Legacy
Bio Challenge is considered to be one of the best platformers of its era. The game’s challenging gameplay and beautiful graphics have stood the test of time, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today. Bio Challenge has also been cited as an influence on a number of later platformers, including Metroid and Castlevania.
Conclusion
Bio Challenge is a classic 2D platformer that offers challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and an excellent soundtrack. The game is a must-play for fans of the genre, and it remains one of the best examples of what the Amiga was capable of.
Additional Information
- Developer: Gremlin Graphics
- Publisher: Ubisoft
- Release Date: 1988
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST, DOS
Awards
- Golden Joystick Award for Best Original Game (1989)
Trivia
- Bio Challenge was originally supposed to be released in 1987, but it was delayed due to technical difficulties.
- The game’s protagonist, K.L.I.P.T., was originally named “Cyborg.”
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Jean Baudlot, who also composed the soundtracks for a number of other classic Amiga games, including Another World and Flashback.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
