Summary

Release Year: 1984
Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Platform, Puzzle
Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 7800, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, PC-8800 Series, PlayStation Portable, Sega Master System/Mark III, Sharp X1, Wii, ZX Spectrum
Developers: Epyx
Publishers: Atari Corporation, Comptiq, Epyx, U.S. Gold

Impossible Mission (1984): The Granddaddy of Stealth Games

Released in 1984 for the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Amstrad CPC, Impossible Mission is a groundbreaking stealth-action game that set the template for many games to come. Developed by Epyx, the game was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

The game’s story is simple but effective: you play as a secret agent who must infiltrate the lair of the evil Dr. Elvin Atombender and stop him from launching a nuclear missile. To do this, you must navigate a series of increasingly difficult rooms, avoiding robots, traps, and other hazards.

One of the things that made Impossible Mission so innovative was its focus on stealth. Unlike other action games of the time, which rewarded players for running and gunning, Impossible Mission required players to be patient and methodical. You couldn’t simply shoot your way through the game; you had to sneak around, using your wits and agility to avoid detection.

This focus on stealth made Impossible Mission a much more cerebral experience than other action games. Players had to think carefully about their every move, and they had to be constantly aware of their surroundings. This made for a much more tense and suspenseful experience, and it helped to set Impossible Mission apart from its contemporaries.

Another thing that made Impossible Mission stand out was its graphics. The game’s use of isometric projection was groundbreaking at the time, and it allowed players to see more of the game world than they could in other games. This made the game feel more immersive and realistic, and it helped to create a sense of atmosphere that was unmatched by other games of the time.

Of course, Impossible Mission is not without its flaws. The game’s controls can be a bit clunky at times, and the difficulty can be frustrating at times. However, these flaws are outweighed by the game’s many strengths. Impossible Mission is a classic stealth-action game that still holds up today. It’s a challenging, rewarding, and immersive experience that is sure to please fans of the genre.

The Legacy of Impossible Mission

Impossible Mission has had a profound impact on the video game industry. The game’s focus on stealth and puzzle-solving has influenced countless games that have come after it, including Metal Gear Solid, Splinter Cell, and Deus Ex. Impossible Mission is also credited with popularizing the use of isometric projection in video games.

In addition to its influence on video games, Impossible Mission has also been praised for its cultural significance. The game has been featured in numerous books and articles, and it has been cited as an inspiration for films and television shows. Impossible Mission is a true classic of the video game industry, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages.

Impossible Mission Today

Impossible Mission is still available to play today on a variety of platforms, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and PC. The game has also been ported to mobile devices, so you can play it on your smartphone or tablet.

If you’re a fan of stealth games, or if you’re just looking for a classic game to play, I highly recommend checking out Impossible Mission. It’s a challenging, rewarding, and immersive experience that is sure to please.

Tips for Playing Impossible Mission

Here are a few tips for playing Impossible Mission:

Be patient. Impossible Mission is a slow-paced game that requires patience and stealth. Don’t try to rush through the game, or you’ll make mistakes and get caught.
Be aware of your surroundings. Always be aware of what’s going on around you. This will help you to avoid detection and stay alive.
Use your gadgets wisely. Impossible Mission gives you a variety of gadgets to help you on your mission. Use them wisely, and they can make a big difference.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Impossible Mission is a game that rewards experimentation. Try different strategies and see what works best for you.

With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to master Impossible Mission and save the world from Dr. Elvin Atombender. Good luck!