Dimension X (1984)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Dimension X: A Classic 3D Shooter

Released in 1984, Dimension X is a pioneering 3D shooter that immerses players in a futuristic world of interplanetary conflict. As a warrior of the titular Dimension X, players pilot a ground skimmer and defend the planet Jaraloba from the invading Rigillians.

Gameplay

Dimension X is played from a first-person perspective, putting players in the cockpit of their skimmer. The game world is a 5×5 grid of sectors, each filled with enemy forces. Players must eliminate all enemies in a sector before proceeding to the next through one of eight gates in the surrounding mountains.

Players control their skimmer using a combination of keyboard and mouse controls. They can accelerate, decelerate, turn left or right, and shoot enemy vehicles. A radar system helps players detect enemies out of their view, but fuel and shields are finite and must be managed carefully.

Story

The story of Dimension X is relatively simple but effective. The player is a warrior of Dimension X, a peaceful planet that has been invaded by the Rigillians, a warlike alien race. The player’s mission is to defend Jaraloba, the last stronghold of Dimension X, and defeat the Rigillian invasion.

Graphics

For its time, Dimension X’s graphics were groundbreaking. The game used a 3D engine to create a fully realized world that players could explore from a first-person perspective. The character models and vehicles were detailed and well-animated, and the environments were immersive and atmospheric.

Sound

The sound design of Dimension X is also top-notch. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of electronic and orchestral music that creates a sense of tension and excitement. The sound effects are also well-crafted, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience.

Legacy

Dimension X was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most important 3D shooters of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay, immersive graphics, and engaging story helped to define the genre and set the stage for future classics like Doom and Quake.

Conclusion

Dimension X is a classic 3D shooter that still holds up today. Its innovative gameplay, immersive graphics, and engaging story make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to 3D shooters, Dimension X is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Tips for Playing Dimension X

  • Use your radar to detect enemies out of your view.
  • Manage your fuel and shields carefully.
  • Take advantage of the game’s physics to bounce shots off walls and around corners.
  • Experiment with different weapons and vehicles to find the ones that suit your playstyle.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore the game’s world and experiment with different strategies.

Additional Information

  • Dimension X was developed by David Perry and published by Broderbund.
  • The game was originally released for the Commodore 64, but it was later ported to other platforms including the Apple II, Atari ST, and MS-DOS.
  • Dimension X was one of the first games to use a 3D engine to create a fully realized world that players could explore from a first-person perspective.
  • The game was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most important 3D shooters of all time.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Nish

Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

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