Pipe Dream (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Pipe Dream (1989)

Pipe Dream is a classic puzzle game that was released in arcades in 1989. It was developed by Lucasfilm Games (now LucasArts) and published by Atari Games. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it has been praised for its addictive gameplay and charming graphics.

Gameplay

The goal of Pipe Dream is to build pipes to connect a water source to a drain. The water flows through the pipes, and you must build them quickly enough to prevent the water from leaking out. If the water leaks out, you lose a life.

The pipes come in different shapes and sizes, and you must rotate and connect them to create a path for the water to flow. The game gets more difficult as you progress, and the pipes become more complex and the water flows faster.

Levels

Pipe Dream has 50 levels, each with a different layout of pipes and obstacles. The first few levels are relatively easy, but the later levels can be quite challenging.

To complete a level, you must keep the water flowing for a certain amount of time. If you can do this, you will progress to the next level. If you run out of time, you lose a life.

Power-ups

There are a few power-ups that can help you to complete the levels. These include:

  • Extra time: This power-up gives you extra time to complete the level.
  • Slow down: This power-up slows down the flow of water.
  • Fix leak: This power-up repairs any leaks in your pipes.

Reception

Pipe Dream was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and innovative use of puzzle mechanics. The game was ported to a number of home computers and consoles, and it has been re-released on several platforms over the years.

Pipe Dream is still considered to be one of the best puzzle games ever made. It is a challenging and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages.

Legacy

Pipe Dream has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. It helped to popularize the puzzle genre, and it inspired a number of other games, including Tetris and Dr. Mario. Pipe Dream is also credited with helping to launch the career of game designer Will Wright, who went on to create The Sims and SimCity.

Tips for playing Pipe Dream

Here are a few tips for playing Pipe Dream:

  • Plan your moves ahead of time. Don’t just start connecting pipes randomly.
  • Use the power-ups wisely. The extra time and slow down power-ups can be especially helpful on the later levels.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is more than one way to solve each level.
  • Take your time. There is no need to rush. The game is more enjoyable if you take your time and plan your moves carefully.

Conclusion

Pipe Dream is a classic puzzle game that is still fun to play today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. If you are looking for a great puzzle game to play, I highly recommend Pipe Dream.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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