Summary
Safari Hunting (1983): A Nostalgic Journey into the Virtual African Savanna
Introduction
Released in 1983, Safari Hunting is a classic arcade game that transports players to the heart of the African savanna. Developed by Sega for the VIC Dual hardware, the game challenges players to take on the role of a skilled hunter tasked with tranquilizing animals and dragging their bodies back to their truck. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal, Safari Hunting remains a beloved title among fans of classic arcade games.
Gameplay
Safari Hunting presents players with a maze-like environment filled with a variety of African animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The player controls a hunter armed with a tranquilizer gun and must navigate the maze, shooting animals and dragging their bodies back to his truck.
The game features two modes: a one-player mode and a two-player cooperative mode. In the one-player mode, the player must complete each level by tranquilizing all of the animals and returning them to the truck before time runs out. In the two-player cooperative mode, players work together to complete the levels.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Safari Hunting featured impressive graphics that brought the African savanna to life. The animals are rendered in detail, and the lush jungle environment is full of vibrant colors. The game’s soundtrack is also noteworthy, with catchy tunes that add to the overall atmosphere.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Safari Hunting was met with positive reviews from critics. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal were all praised. However, some critics found the game to be too repetitive and lacking in variety.
Legacy
Safari Hunting has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s unique blend of hunting and maze navigation has inspired numerous other games, including the popular Deer Hunter series. Safari Hunting was also one of the first games to feature a two-player cooperative mode, which has become a staple of many multiplayer games today.
Re-releases and Home Ports
Safari Hunting was originally released in arcades in 1983. The game was later ported to the SG-1000 home console in 1984 by Compile, a then-just founded company that would go on to develop numerous other classic games. The SG-1000 version of the game features slightly updated graphics and is considered to be the definitive version of Safari Hunting.
In addition to the arcade and SG-1000 releases, Safari Hunting has also been included as a minigame within other games, such as Dynamite Cop. This has helped to introduce the game to a new generation of players.
Conclusion
Safari Hunting is a classic arcade game that has stood the test of time. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal, the game continues to entertain players today. Whether you’re a fan of classic arcade games or simply looking for a fun and challenging experience, Safari Hunting is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
7/10
