Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Simulator
- Platforms: Amiga, Apple II, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS
- Publishers: Electronic Arts
Stuart Smith’s Adventure Construction Set (1984)
Stuart Smith’s Adventure Construction Set is a pioneering game development system released in 1984 for the Commodore 64, Atari 8-bit family, and Apple II. It was one of the first tools to allow users to create their own text-based adventure games without having to learn a programming language.
The Construction Set comes with three basic construction sets: a Fantasy Set, a Spy/Mystery Set, and a Science Fiction Set. Each set includes graphics, music, sound effects, a wardrobe full of creature and character costumes, and a prop room crammed with objects and special effects.
Users can use the parts in the basic construction sets to create their own adventures, or they can ask the computer to do it for them. The Construction Set includes a random adventure generator that can create a complete adventure with a map, puzzles, and characters.
Creating an Adventure
To create an adventure in the Construction Set, users first choose a setting and a theme. They can then use the Construction Set’s tools to create a map, add characters and objects, and write the text that will guide the player through the adventure.
The Construction Set’s interface is simple and easy to use. Users can create a map by selecting from a variety of pre-defined room templates, or they can create their own custom rooms. They can then add characters and objects to the rooms by dragging and dropping them from the Construction Set’s library.
To write the text for their adventure, users can use the Construction Set’s built-in text editor. The text editor includes a number of features that make it easy to write interactive text, such as the ability to create multiple choice questions and to define variables.
Playing an Adventure
Once an adventure has been created, it can be played by anyone with a copy of the Construction Set. To play an adventure, the player simply loads the adventure file into the Construction Set and clicks on the “Play” button.
The Construction Set will then display the adventure’s text and graphics on the screen. The player can interact with the adventure by typing commands into the text box at the bottom of the screen.
Legacy
Stuart Smith’s Adventure Construction Set was a groundbreaking tool that made it possible for anyone to create their own text-based adventure games. It was one of the first tools to democratize game development, and it inspired a generation of game designers.
The Construction Set is still used today by hobbyists and professional game developers alike. It is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide variety of text-based adventure games, from simple puzzles to complex epics.
Review
Stuart Smith’s Adventure Construction Set is a classic game development tool that is still relevant today. It is easy to use, powerful, and versatile. Whether you are a first-time game designer or a seasoned pro, the Construction Set is a great tool to have in your arsenal.
Score: 8/10
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Powerful
- Versatile
- Can be used to create a wide variety of text-based adventure games
Cons:
- The graphics are dated
- The interface can be a bit clunky at times
- The documentation is not very good
Overall:
Stuart Smith’s Adventure Construction Set is a great tool for anyone who wants to create their own text-based adventure games. It is easy to use, powerful, and versatile. Whether you are a first-time game designer or a seasoned pro, the Construction Set is a great tool to have in your arsenal.
Review Score
8/10
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