Summary

• Release Year: 1988
• Genres: Arcade, Racing, Shooter
• Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
• Developers: Elite Systems
• Publishers: Elite Systems

Overlander (1988): A Post-Apocalyptic Road Warrior Extravaganza

Released in 1988, Overlander is a roadblasters-style driving game set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Players take on the role of an overlander, a driver of an armored car who transports goods between settlements in a dangerous and unforgiving world.

Gameplay

Overlander is a top-down driving game with a focus on action and combat. Players must navigate their car through a variety of environments, including deserts, mountains, and cities, while avoiding obstacles and engaging in combat with enemy vehicles.

The game’s world is procedurally generated, meaning that the layout of the map changes each time the player starts a new game. This ensures that the game remains fresh and challenging, even after multiple playthroughs.

One of the unique features of Overlander is its economic system. Players earn money by transporting goods between settlements. The more goods they deliver, the more money they earn. However, players must be careful not to lose their cargo, as it can be stolen by enemy vehicles.

Players can use their earnings to purchase upgrades for their car, including new weapons, armor, and engines. These upgrades can give players an edge in combat and allow them to transport more goods.

Setting

Overlander is set in a post-apocalyptic world that has been ravaged by nuclear war. The world is a harsh and unforgiving place, where resources are scarce and violence is commonplace.

The few remaining survivors live in small settlements, scattered across the wasteland. These settlements are constantly under threat from raiders and other hostile forces.

Players must navigate this dangerous world in their armored car, delivering goods and supplies to those who need them. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of enemies, including raiders, mutants, and even other overlanders.

Vehicles

Players can choose from a variety of vehicles in Overlander, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Some vehicles are faster, while others are more durable. Some vehicles are equipped with powerful weapons, while others are more suited for transporting goods.

Players must carefully consider their choice of vehicle before setting out on a journey. The wrong vehicle can make the difference between success and failure.

Combat

Combat in Overlander is fast-paced and action-packed. Players can use a variety of weapons to attack enemy vehicles, including machine guns, cannons, and rockets.

Players must be careful not to take too much damage, as their car can be destroyed if it is hit too many times. They must also be aware of their surroundings, as they can be ambushed by enemy vehicles at any time.

Reception

Overlander was released to critical acclaim upon its release in 1988. Critics praised the game’s innovative gameplay, procedurally generated world, and economic system. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Overlander has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and MS-DOS. The game has also been released on modern platforms, such as GOG.com and Steam.

Legacy

Overlander is considered to be one of the best driving games of its era. The game’s unique blend of action, strategy, and exploration has influenced a number of later games, including the Grand Theft Auto series and the Fallout series.

Overlander is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains a popular choice for fans of post-apocalyptic driving games.

Conclusion

Overlander is a classic driving game that offers a unique and challenging experience. The game’s procedurally generated world, economic system, and fast-paced combat make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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