Summary
- Genres: Simulator
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC
The Apprentice: A Challenging and Rewarding NES Platformer
Released in 1990 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, The Apprentice is an arcade-style platformer that tasks players with guiding the titular apprentice, Marvin, through six treacherous castle towers. With its fast-paced action, thousands of frames of animation, and challenging gameplay, The Apprentice is a rewarding experience for both casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Gameplay
The Apprentice is a side-scrolling platformer in which players control Marvin, the apprentice to the great wizard Gandorf S. Wandburner III. Marvin must navigate through six castle towers, each of which is filled with enemies, obstacles, and traps. Players must use Marvin’s running, jumping, and flying abilities to overcome these challenges and reach the end of each level.
The game’s controls are simple and responsive, making it easy for players to pick up and play. However, The Apprentice is a challenging game that requires quick reflexes and precise timing. Players must be able to react quickly to enemies and obstacles, and they must be able to execute complex jumps and maneuvers in order to progress through the game’s later levels.
Graphics and Sound
The Apprentice features colorful and detailed graphics that bring the game’s castle towers and characters to life. The game’s animation is also top-notch, with thousands of frames of animation used to create smooth and fluid character movements. The game’s soundtrack is also well-composed and catchy, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and urgency.
Challenge and Reward
The Apprentice is a challenging game, but it is also a very rewarding one. Players who are able to overcome the game’s challenges will be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, and players will gradually learn new skills and abilities as they progress through the game. This sense of progression helps to keep players engaged and motivated.
Legacy
The Apprentice was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered to be one of the best NES platformers ever made. The game’s challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and catchy soundtrack have stood the test of time, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.
Conclusion
The Apprentice is a challenging and rewarding NES platformer that is sure to please fans of the genre. With its fast-paced action, thousands of frames of animation, and challenging gameplay, The Apprentice is a game that will keep players coming back for more. If you’re looking for a classic NES platformer to add to your collection, then The Apprentice is definitely worth checking out.
Tips for Playing The Apprentice
- Be patient and don’t give up. The Apprentice is a challenging game, but it is possible to beat it with practice.
- Learn the enemy patterns and attack animations. This will help you to avoid getting hit and to defeat enemies more easily.
- Use Marvin’s running, jumping, and flying abilities to your advantage. These abilities can be used to overcome obstacles and to reach new areas.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to beat each level, so don’t be afraid to try different strategies.
- Have fun! The Apprentice is a challenging game, but it is also a lot of fun. So relax, enjoy the game, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself when you make a mistake.
Review Score
8/10
