Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Platform, Puzzle, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Atari 2600, ColecoVision, Commodore VIC-20, Intellivision, NEC PC-6000 Series, Odyssey 2 / Videopac G7000
- Developers: Konami
- Publishers: Parker Brothers, Stern Electronics
Tutankham (1982): A Thrilling Maze Adventure
Released in 1982 for the ZX Spectrum, Tutankham is a classic maze, action, and shoot ’em up game that combines thrilling gameplay with a unique Egyptian theme. Players take on the role of an explorer who must navigate a series of dangerous mazes, collecting keys, avoiding deadly creatures, and searching for the exit.
Gameplay
Tutankham is played from a top-down perspective, with the player controlling an explorer who can move left, right, up, and down through a maze. The goal of each level is to collect a key and find the exit door, while avoiding the various creatures that roam the maze. These creatures include asps, vultures, parrots, bats, dragons, and even curses, all of which kill the player on contact.
The player can fight back against the creatures by firing lasers, but they can only shoot in the left and right directions. The player is also endowed with a single screen-clearing “flash bomb” per level or life. Finally, each level has warp zones that teleport the player around the level, which enemies cannot use.
To progress through the game, the player must collect keys to open locked doors. There are also optional treasures that can be picked up for bonus points. Each level has a timer; when it reaches zero the explorer can no longer fire lasers, and once a level is cleared the remaining time is converted to bonus points.
Levels
Tutankham features a total of 20 levels, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The levels become increasingly difficult as the game progresses, with more enemies and more complex mazes. Some levels also feature special challenges, such as timed sections or areas where the player must avoid traps.
Graphics and Sound
For a game released in 1982, Tutankham features impressive graphics and sound. The mazes are well-designed and detailed, and the creatures are all unique and well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that add to the atmosphere.
Legacy
Tutankham was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered one of the best games for the ZX Spectrum. The game has been praised for its thrilling gameplay, unique Egyptian theme, and impressive graphics and sound. Tutankham has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX.
Conclusion
Tutankham is a classic maze, action, and shoot ’em up game that offers a thrilling and challenging experience. With its unique Egyptian theme, impressive graphics and sound, and addictive gameplay, Tutankham is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art

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