Wicked (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Wicked (1989)

Wicked is an action-adventure game developed and published by Gremlin Graphics for the ZX Spectrum. It was released in 1989 and is the sequel to the game Thing Bounces Back (1988).

The player controls Dirk the Daring, a brave adventurer who must travel to the castle of the evil wizard Mordred to defeat him and rescue the sun, which Mordred has stolen and is using to power his evil machine.

The game is played from a top-down perspective and features a variety of enemies and obstacles that Dirk must overcome. Dirk can attack enemies with his sword or by throwing rocks. He can also collect power-ups that give him special abilities, such as the ability to shoot fireballs or to become invincible.

Wicked is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The graphics are well-drawn and the sound is excellent. The game world is large and varied, and there are many secrets to discover.

Gameplay

Wicked is played from a top-down perspective and features a variety of enemies and obstacles that Dirk must overcome. Dirk can attack enemies with his sword or by throwing rocks. He can also collect power-ups that give him special abilities, such as the ability to shoot fireballs or to become invincible.

The game world is large and varied, and there are many secrets to discover. Dirk must travel through forests, caves, and mountains, and he must defeat a variety of enemies, including goblins, trolls, and dragons.

Development

Wicked was developed by Gremlin Graphics, a British video game company founded in 1984. The game was designed by Mike Lamb and Steve Marsden, and it was programmed by Bob Pape.

The game was originally released for the ZX Spectrum, but it was later ported to other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.

Reception

Wicked was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.

Legacy

Wicked is considered to be one of the best action-adventure games of the 1980s. It is still fondly remembered by many gamers today.

The game has been re-released several times over the years, including on the ZX Spectrum Next and the Commodore 64 Mini.

Tips and tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you succeed in Wicked:

  • Explore the game world thoroughly. There are many secrets to discover, so be sure to explore every nook and cranny.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons and power-ups. There are many different ways to defeat your enemies, so experiment until you find what works best for you.
  • Be patient. Wicked is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep trying and you will eventually succeed.

Review

Wicked is a classic action-adventure game that is still fun to play today. It has great graphics, sound, and gameplay, and it is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.

If you are a fan of retro games, then you should definitely check out Wicked. It is a challenging and rewarding game that is sure to please.

Score: 9/10

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More