Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Platform, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Rainbow Arts
- Publishers: Rainbow Arts
Spherical (1989): A Challenging and Addictive Action Puzzler
Released in 1989, Spherical is an action puzzler that tasks players with guiding a ball through a series of levels to the spot marked “In.” To do this, players must create and remove blocks to alter the ball’s path, while avoiding enemies and collecting bonus items.
Spherical is a clear conceptual successor to Solomon’s Key, another action puzzler released in 1986. However, Spherical introduces several new elements that set it apart from its predecessor. Most notably, the ball in Spherical moves automatically once activated, and can be controlled by using strategically-placed blocks. This adds an extra layer of challenge to the game, as players must carefully plan their moves in order to guide the ball to its destination.
The game also features a variety of enemies that move on fixed paths. These enemies must be avoided, as they can kill the player on contact. However, players can also use the enemies to their advantage by strategically placing blocks to trap them or block their path.
In addition to the main game mode, Spherical also features a level editor that allows players to create their own levels. This adds a great deal of replayability to the game, as players can constantly create new and challenging levels to play.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Spherical is simple to learn but difficult to master. Players control the protagonist, who can create and remove blocks to alter the path of the ball. The ball moves automatically once activated, and can be controlled by using strategically-placed blocks.
The goal of each level is to guide the ball to the spot marked “In.” To do this, players must use blocks to create a path for the ball, while avoiding enemies and collecting bonus items.
There are a variety of different blocks that can be used in Spherical. Some blocks are solid, while others can be destroyed. Players can also use blocks to create ramps, which can be used to launch the ball into the air.
There are also a variety of different enemies in Spherical. Some enemies move on fixed paths, while others are more aggressive and will chase the player. Players must avoid enemies, as they can kill the player on contact.
In addition to the main game mode, Spherical also features a level editor that allows players to create their own levels. This adds a great deal of replayability to the game, as players can constantly create new and challenging levels to play.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Spherical are simple but effective. The game’s levels are colorful and well-designed, and the enemies are varied and interesting. The game’s soundtrack is also well-composed and catchy.
Overall
Spherical is a challenging and addictive action puzzler that is sure to please fans of the genre. With its simple to learn but difficult to master gameplay, Spherical is a game that will keep players entertained for hours on end.
Tips for Playing Spherical
- Take your time and plan your moves carefully. The ball takes 20 seconds to start moving, so use this time to plan ahead.
- Use the enemies to your advantage. You can trap enemies by placing blocks around them, or you can block their path to prevent them from reaching you.
- Collect bonus items to help you complete levels. Bonus items can give you invincibility, alter gravity, or teleport you to another part of the level.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with the level editor. Creating your own levels is a great way to learn the game’s mechanics and to challenge yourself.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
