Nebulus (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Nebulus (1987): A Revolutionary Platformer with Pseudo-3D Graphics

Released in 1987, Nebulus is a groundbreaking platformer that introduced innovative graphics and gameplay mechanics to the genre. Developed by John M. Phillips and published by Atari Games, Nebulus captivated gamers with its unique rotating tower levels and challenging side-scrolling underwater stages.

Gameplay

In Nebulus, players control a small green alien named Pogo who must ascend eight towers and destroy their energy cores to save the galaxy from an evil force that is poisoning the water supply of potential colony planets.

Each tower is a cylindrical structure with a series of platforms and walkways wrapped around its exterior. Pogo must navigate these platforms, jumping over gaps, kicking enemies, and avoiding hazards as he makes his way to the top. Vertical movement is achieved by timing jumps to coincide with moving ledges.

The game’s most distinctive feature is its pseudo-3D graphics. As Pogo walks around the outside of a tower, the tower itself rotates, giving the player a sense of depth and immersion that was uncommon in platformers at the time.

Once Pogo reaches the top of a tower, he must enter its core and destroy its energy core. This is accomplished by shooting a bomb into the core, which triggers a timed explosion. Pogo must then quickly escape the tower before the explosion consumes him.

Towers are linked together by underwater stages, which play out as side-scrolling collect-’em-ups. In these stages, Pogo pilots his MK.7 submarine and collects bonus points while avoiding enemies and obstacles.

Graphics and Sound

Nebulus’s graphics were groundbreaking for its time. The use of rotating towers and pseudo-3D effects created a sense of depth and immersion that was unmatched by other platformers of the era. The game’s colorful and detailed sprites also contributed to its visual appeal.

The game’s soundtrack is composed of upbeat and catchy synthesized melodies that perfectly complement the fast-paced gameplay. The sound effects are also well-crafted, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, Nebulus was met with critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the game’s innovative graphics, challenging gameplay, and catchy soundtrack. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Nebulus is considered to be one of the most influential platformers of all time. Its innovative graphics and gameplay mechanics paved the way for future 3D platformers, and its side-scrolling underwater stages inspired similar levels in other games.

The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the Atari ST, Commodore Amiga, and Nintendo Entertainment System. It has also been included in several retro game compilations.

Conclusion

Nebulus is a timeless classic that continues to entertain gamers today. Its innovative graphics, challenging gameplay, and catchy soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of platformers and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. The game’s legacy as one of the most influential platformers of all time is well-deserved, and it remains a shining example of the creativity and innovation that was possible in the golden age of arcade gaming.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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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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