Summary

• Release Year: 1979
• Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
• Platforms: Acorn Electron, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Commodore Plus/4, Commodore VIC-20, Dragon 32/64, FM-7, PC-8800 Series, Texas Instruments TI-99, TRS-80, TRS-80 Color Computer, ZX Spectrum
• Developers: Adventure International
• Publishers: Adventure International, Commodore Business Machines, Inc., StarCraft, Inc., Texas Instruments Incorporated

Secret Mission (1979): A Text-Based Adventure Classic

Secret Mission is a text-based adventure game released in 1979 for the TRS-80 and Apple II computers. It was one of the first adventure games to use a two-word command parser, and it is still considered one of the best examples of the genre.

The game takes place in a nuclear power plant, and the player must prevent a reactor meltdown. To do this, the player must explore the plant, solve puzzles, and interact with the other characters in the game.

Secret Mission is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The puzzles are clever and the atmosphere is immersive. The game is also notable for its realistic graphics, which were groundbreaking at the time.

Gameplay

Secret Mission is played using a two-word command parser. The player types in a verb and a noun, and the game responds with a description of the results. For example, the player could type “GET KEY” to pick up a key, or “USE KEY” to use a key to open a door.

The game world is divided into a series of rooms, each of which is described in detail. The player can move between rooms by typing “GO” followed by the direction they want to go.

The player can also interact with the objects in the game world. To do this, the player types “USE” followed by the object they want to use. For example, the player could type “USE KEY” to use a key to open a door, or “USE COMPUTER” to use a computer.

The player can also interact with the other characters in the game. To do this, the player types “TALK” followed by the character’s name. For example, the player could type “TALK TO SCIENTIST” to talk to the scientist in the game.

Puzzles

Secret Mission is full of clever puzzles. The puzzles are often based on logic and observation, and they require the player to think carefully about their surroundings.

One of the most famous puzzles in the game is the “water puzzle.” In this puzzle, the player must find a way to get a bucket of water from one room to another. The player can use a variety of objects in the game world to solve this puzzle, such as a rope, a pulley, and a bucket.

Characters

Secret Mission features a cast of memorable characters. The player interacts with these characters throughout the game, and they can provide the player with valuable information and assistance.

One of the most important characters in the game is the scientist. The scientist is the one who is responsible for preventing the reactor meltdown. The player must work with the scientist to find a way to stop the meltdown.

Another important character in the game is the security guard. The security guard is responsible for keeping the power plant safe. The player must interact with the security guard to gain access to different areas of the plant.

Atmosphere

Secret Mission has a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. The player is constantly aware of the danger of the reactor meltdown, and they must race against time to prevent it.

The game’s graphics also contribute to the atmosphere. The graphics are simple, but they are effective in creating a sense of realism. The player feels like they are actually inside a nuclear power plant, and they can feel the tension and suspense as they try to prevent the meltdown.

Legacy

Secret Mission is considered one of the greatest text-based adventure games ever made. The game was praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive atmosphere, and realistic graphics.

Secret Mission has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Commodore 64, the Atari 8-bit family, and the PC. The game is still available for purchase today, and it remains a popular choice for fans of classic adventure games.

Conclusion

Secret Mission is a classic text-based adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging puzzles, immersive atmosphere, and realistic graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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