Summary
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX
Havoc: Ahoy Matey! Set Sail for Adventure with the Pirate Seal
Prepare to embark on a swashbuckling adventure with Havoc, the anthropomorphic pirate seal! Released in 1991 for the Sega Genesis, Havoc is a charming platformer that follows the titular hero as he sets out to rescue his friends and find the legendary Emeralda gem.
Story: A Tale of Pirates, Treasure, and Friendship
The story of Havoc unfolds on a tropical island paradise. Havoc, a brave and resourceful pirate seal, discovers Bridget, a young girl who has been kidnapped by the evil pirate Bernardo. Bernardo is searching for a map that leads to the Emeralda gem, a powerful artifact that can topple armies. Havoc and his young sidekick, Tide, vow to rescue Bridget and protect the map from falling into Bernardo’s clutches.
Gameplay: Platforming with a Twist
Havoc is a side-scrolling platformer with a unique twist: the ability to swim. Havoc can traverse both land and sea, adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay. Players must navigate through a variety of levels, from lush jungles to treacherous underwater caves, using Havoc’s swimming and platforming abilities to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.
Havoc’s arsenal of moves includes a sword attack, a tail whip, and the ability to throw bombs. Players must use these attacks strategically to defeat the various enemies that populate the island, including Bernardo’s henchmen, giant crabs, and even a kraken.
Characters: A Colorful Cast of Pirates and Friends
Havoc features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique personality and motivations.
- Havoc: The titular hero, Havoc is a brave and resourceful pirate seal who is always ready for a challenge.
- Tide: Havoc’s young sidekick, Tide is a loyal and enthusiastic companion.
- Bridget: A kind and gentle girl who has been kidnapped by Bernardo.
- Bernardo: The evil pirate who is searching for the Emeralda gem.
- Patty: A wise old parrot who provides Havoc with advice and guidance.
Graphics and Sound: A Tropical Paradise
Havoc’s graphics are colorful and vibrant, bringing the tropical island setting to life. The backgrounds are detailed and lush, and the character sprites are expressive and charming. The soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the game’s adventurous spirit.
Legacy: A Treasured Gem of the Sega Genesis Era
Havoc was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among Sega Genesis fans today. The game’s unique gameplay, charming characters, and beautiful graphics have stood the test of time, making it a true hidden gem of the 16-bit era.
Tips for Playing Havoc
- Use Havoc’s swimming ability to your advantage. Many levels feature underwater sections that can be used to bypass obstacles or reach hidden areas.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with Havoc’s different attacks. Each attack has its own strengths and weaknesses, so find the one that works best for each situation.
- Collect as many coins as you can. Coins can be used to purchase items from Patty, the wise old parrot, who appears in certain levels.
- Be careful of the kraken! This giant sea monster can be a formidable foe, so be sure to have plenty of bombs on hand when you encounter it.
Conclusion: Ahoy Matey!
Havoc is a timeless classic that offers a unique and charming platforming experience. With its colorful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and memorable characters, Havoc is a must-play for fans of the Sega Genesis and platforming games in general. So set sail for adventure, matey, and join Havoc on his quest to rescue his friends and find the legendary Emeralda gem!
Review Score
7.5/10
