Platform: DOS

Captain Dynamo (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Captain Dynamo (1992): A Retrospective

Introduction

Captain Dynamo is a platform game developed by Codemasters and released in 1992. Versions were published for the Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and MS-DOS. The game was later ported for play on mobile phones.

Gameplay

Captain Dynamo is a vertically scrolling platformer in which the player controls the titular character, an aging superhero, as he attempts to recover a haul of stolen diamonds from the trap-infested rocket-ship of the villainous Austen Von Flyswatter.

The game is divided into a series of levels, each of which is filled with platforms, ladders, and other obstacles. The player must navigate Captain Dynamo through the levels, collecting diamonds and avoiding hazards such as lasers, spikes, and enemies.

At the end of each level, the player must enter a teleport unit in order to progress to the next level. The player’s score is based on the number of diamonds collected and the time taken to complete the level.

Development

Captain Dynamo was developed by a small team at Codemasters, led by programmer David Perry. The game was inspired by the classic arcade game Donkey Kong, but with a more modern twist.

The team wanted to create a game that was both challenging and fun, and they spent a lot of time designing the levels and enemies. They also paid close attention to the game’s graphics and sound, which were both considered to be top-notch for the time.

Release

Captain Dynamo was released in 1992 to critical acclaim. The game was praised for its addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and impressive graphics and sound. It was a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Captain Dynamo is considered to be one of the best platform games of the early 1990s. It is still enjoyed by retro gamers today, and it has been ported to a number of modern platforms.

The game’s success helped to establish Codemasters as a leading developer of platform games. The company went on to release a number of other successful platformers, including Dizzy, the Lemmings series, and Micro Machines.

Captain Dynamo in Retrospect

Captain Dynamo is a classic platform game that still holds up today. It is a challenging and fun game with great graphics and sound. If you are a fan of platform games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Captain Dynamo.

Here are some of the things that make Captain Dynamo a great game:

  • Addictive gameplay: Captain Dynamo is a simple game to learn, but it is difficult to master. The levels are challenging and require quick reflexes and good problem-solving skills.
  • Variety of levels: The game features a wide variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges. There are levels set in caves, forests, factories, and even outer space.
  • Impressive graphics and sound: For its time, Captain Dynamo had some of the best graphics and sound of any platform game. The visuals are colorful and detailed, and the music is catchy and upbeat.

If you are looking for a challenging and fun platform game to play, then Captain Dynamo is a great choice. It is a classic game that still holds up today.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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The Ultimate Doom (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

The Ultimate Doom: The Pinnacle of First-Person Shooter Excellence

Released in 1995, The Ultimate Doom stands as a towering titan in the annals of gaming history, solidifying the legacy of the groundbreaking Doom franchise and cementing its place as one of the most influential and beloved video games of all time. This definitive edition not only repackaged the original Doom experience but also unleashed an all-new episode, Thy Flesh Consumed, further expanding the game’s demonic dimensions and introducing a wealth of new challenges.

A Harrowing Descent into Hell’s Abyss

The Ultimate Doom thrusts players into the unforgiving depths of a Martian moonbase overrun by hordes of grotesque and deadly demons. As the lone surviving space marine, you embark on a perilous mission to fight your way through hordes of hideous monsters, uncover the sinister secrets of the UAC facility, and ultimately confront the demonic mastermind behind the invasion.

The game’s visuals, while primitive by today’s standards, were groundbreaking for their time, creating a claustrophobic and terrifying atmosphere that perfectly captured the essence of a nightmarish hellscape. The dark, labyrinthine corridors, flickering lights, and grotesque monster designs all contributed to an immersive and unsettling experience that left players on the edge of their seats.

A Symphony of Slaughter and Gore

The Ultimate Doom’s gameplay is a relentless and exhilarating dance of violence. Armed with an arsenal of iconic weapons, including the shotgun, chaingun, rocket launcher, and plasma rifle, players must blast their way through hordes of demons, each with their own unique behaviors and attack patterns.

From the gibbering Pinky to the towering Cyberdemon, each encounter is a test of reflexes and strategic thinking. The game’s fast-paced and visceral combat, combined with its innovative level design and power-up system, created an addictive and satisfying gameplay loop that kept players coming back for more.

Thy Flesh Consumed: A New Chapter of Demonic Terror

The Ultimate Doom’s expansion pack, Thy Flesh Consumed, added a substantial new chapter to the game, featuring 32 additional levels of intense action and introducing new enemies, weapons, and a gripping storyline.

This expansion pack further showcased id Software’s mastery of level design, with intricate and challenging maps that tested players’ skills and kept them on their toes. The new enemies, such as the Mancubus and Arachnotron, added even greater variety and challenge to the combat, while the introduction of the BFG 9000 provided players with an immensely powerful weapon to unleash upon their demonic foes.

A Legacy of Innovation and Influence

The Ultimate Doom was not merely a repackaged version of the original Doom; it was a significant refinement and expansion that solidified the game’s status as a genre-defining classic. Its groundbreaking graphics, intense gameplay, and innovative level design set a new standard for first-person shooters and influenced countless games that followed in its wake.

The game’s impact on the industry is immeasurable. It popularized the use of 3D graphics in FPS games, pioneered the concept of multiplayer deathmatch, and established the template for countless future shooters. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence game developers to this day.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Doom (1995) stands as a timeless masterpiece, a game that transcended its time and continues to be enjoyed by gamers worldwide. Its innovative gameplay, terrifying atmosphere, and iconic status have cemented its place as one of the greatest video games ever created. Whether you’re a seasoned Doom veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, The Ultimate Doom is an essential experience that will leave you breathless and craving more.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Dizzy Dice (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Dizzy Dice (1990)

Dizzy Dice is a fruit machine game developed and published by Codemasters in 1990. It was released on the Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. The game is based on the British fruit machine, a popular gambling device found in pubs and amusement arcades.

The goal of Dizzy Dice is to line up three matching symbols on the reels. The symbols include fruits, such as cherries, lemons, and oranges, as well as traditional fruit machine symbols, such as bells, bars, and sevens. There are also two special symbols: the Dizzy Dice logo and the scatter symbol.

The Dizzy Dice logo symbol acts as a wild symbol, which can substitute for any other symbol to help create winning combinations. The scatter symbol triggers the bonus game, which awards a number of free spins.

Dizzy Dice is a simple game to play, but it is also very addictive. The bright and colourful graphics, the catchy music, and the exciting gameplay will keep you entertained for hours.

Gameplay

Dizzy Dice is played on a five-reel, three-row slot machine. The player can bet up to five coins per spin. The amount of the bet determines the size of the potential winnings.

To spin the reels, the player simply clicks on the “Spin” button. The reels will then spin and stop randomly. If the player lines up three matching symbols on the reels, they will win a prize. The amount of the prize depends on the type of symbols that are matched.

There are also two special symbols in Dizzy Dice: the Dizzy Dice logo and the scatter symbol. The Dizzy Dice logo symbol acts as a wild symbol, which can substitute for any other symbol to help create winning combinations. The scatter symbol triggers the bonus game, which awards a number of free spins.

The bonus game is played on a separate screen. The player is awarded a number of free spins, and all of the winnings during the free spins are doubled. The bonus game can be retriggered if the player lands three or more scatter symbols during the free spins.

Graphics and sound

The graphics in Dizzy Dice are bright and colourful. The reels are set against a backdrop of a fruit machine, and the symbols are all rendered in great detail. The game also features some nice animations, such as the spinning reels and the flashing lights.

The sound in Dizzy Dice is also very good. The music is catchy and upbeat, and the sound effects are realistic. The game also features some voice acting, which adds to the overall atmosphere.

Conclusion

Dizzy Dice is a fun and addictive fruit machine game that will keep you entertained for hours. The bright and colourful graphics, the catchy music, and the exciting gameplay make Dizzy Dice a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Review

I give Dizzy Dice a score of 7 out of 10. The game is fun and addictive, but it is also very simple. There is not a lot of depth to the gameplay, and the game can become repetitive after a while. However, if you are looking for a fun and lighthearted fruit machine game, then Dizzy Dice is definitely worth checking out.

Additional information

  • Dizzy Dice was one of the first fruit machine games to be released on home computers.
  • The game was a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
  • Dizzy Dice was followed by two sequels, Dizzy Dice II and Dizzy Dice III.
  • The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Nintendo DS and the PlayStation Portable.

Review Score

7/10

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Barbarian (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Barbarian: A Classic Action-Adventure Game

Released in 1987, Barbarian is a classic action-adventure game that still holds up today. Its innovative context-sensitive animation system allows for a wide range of actions, and the game’s world is full of secrets and challenges to discover.

Gameplay

Barbarian is played from a top-down perspective. The player controls the protagonist, Hegor, as he explores the world of Durgan. Hegor can walk, run, jump, and attack with his sword or bow and arrow. The game’s context-sensitive animation system allows Hegor to perform different actions depending on the situation he is in. For example, Hegor can climb ladders, swim in water, and push objects out of his way.

The game’s world is full of puzzles and challenges. Hegor must find keys to open doors, levers to pull, and switches to flip in order to progress. He must also battle a variety of enemies, including goblins, skeletons, and dragons.

Story

The story of Barbarian is simple but effective. Hegor is a barbarian warrior who must travel to the volcano of Durgan to destroy the crystal that is the source of the evil power of Necron. Once the crystal is destroyed, the volcano will start to erupt, and Hegor must escape before it blows.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Barbarian’s graphics were impressive. The game’s world is rendered in a detailed and colorful pixel art style. The characters are well-animated, and the game’s environments are full of life.

The game’s sound is also top-notch. The music is catchy and atmospheric, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive.

Legacy

Barbarian was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and catchy music. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.

Barbarian has also been influential on the development of other action-adventure games. Its context-sensitive animation system has been used in many other games, and its world full of secrets and challenges has inspired many other developers.

Conclusion

Barbarian is a classic action-adventure game that still holds up today. Its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and catchy music make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding game to play, then look no further than Barbarian.

Tips for Playing Barbarian

  • Be patient. Barbarian is a challenging game, but it’s also fair. If you take your time and explore the world, you’ll eventually find your way through.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. The game’s context-sensitive animation system allows you to perform a wide range of actions. Experiment with different commands to see what Hegor can do.
  • Use your environment to your advantage. The game’s world is full of objects that you can use to help you progress. For example, you can use rocks to block enemies, or you can use ladders to climb over walls.
  • Don’t give up. Barbarian is a challenging game, but it’s also very rewarding. If you stick with it, you’ll eventually reach the end.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Palace Software
  • Publisher: Psygnosis
  • Release Date: 1987
  • Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum
  • Genre: Action-adventure

Review Score

8.5/10

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Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back (1992)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Sahara Desert

Released in 1992, Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back is a classic platformer game that follows the adventures of a determined fox named Titus as he sets out on a perilous journey to rescue his beloved Suzy from the clutches of an evil sultan.

Gameplay: A Desert Odyssey

Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back is a side-scrolling platformer that takes players through 15 challenging levels set in the vast and unforgiving Sahara desert. Titus must navigate treacherous landscapes, avoid dangerous enemies, and solve puzzles in order to reach his destination and save Suzy.

The game’s controls are simple yet effective. Titus can run, jump, and throw objects. He can also pick up certain enemies from behind and use them as projectiles, a unique and satisfying gameplay mechanic.

Desert Denizens: Friends and Foes

Titus’ journey is not without its hazards. He must contend with a variety of enemies, including guard dogs, construction workers, giant bees, and even mummies. Each enemy has its own unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Fortunately, Titus is not entirely alone in his quest. Along the way, he meets a cast of quirky characters who provide assistance and guidance. These include a wise old turtle, a friendly genie, and a helpful monkey.

A Sahara Odyssey: A Visual Feast

Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back is a visually impressive game for its time. The pixel art graphics are colorful and detailed, bringing the desert environments and characters to life. The game’s soundtrack is also memorable, with catchy tunes that perfectly complement the gameplay.

Saving Progress in the Sahara

In a time before widespread use of save states and checkpoints, Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back employed a unique code-based saving system. Upon reaching certain milestones in the game, players were given a unique code that they could use to resume their progress later.

This system added an extra layer of challenge to the game, as players had to carefully note down their codes to avoid losing progress. It also fostered a sense of community among players, who often shared their codes with friends to help them overcome difficult levels.

Legacy and Impact

Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game’s unique gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and challenging levels have stood the test of time.

Titus the Fox has also had a lasting impact on the gaming industry. The game’s innovative use of enemies as projectiles has been imitated in numerous other platformers, and its code-based saving system has served as a model for games that followed.

Conclusion: A Timeless Adventure

Titus the Fox: To Marrakech and Back is a timeless platformer that captures the spirit of adventure and exploration. With its charming characters, challenging gameplay, and beautiful visuals, the game continues to entertain and captivate players of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Titus the Fox is an unforgettable journey that will transport you to the heart of the Sahara desert.

Additional Information:

  • Developer: Titus Interactive
  • Publisher: Titus Interactive
  • Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, Game Boy, Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
  • Release Date: 1992
  • Genre: Platformer
  • ESRB Rating: Not rated

Review Score

8.5/10

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Worms (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Worms (1995): A Nostalgic Dive into the World of Turn-Based Mayhem

Released in 1995, Worms is a turn-based artillery game that quickly became a beloved classic. Developed by Team17, Worms combines strategy, humor, and a healthy dose of chaos to create an unforgettable gaming experience.

Gameplay: Worms with Attitude

Worms pits players against each other in a battle of wits and weaponry. Each player controls a team of up to four worms, each with their own unique arsenal of weapons and abilities. The goal is to eliminate all of the opposing worms while keeping your own alive.

The game takes place on a destructible 2D landscape, with players taking turns to move their worms and launch attacks. Worms can crawl, jump, and use a variety of weapons, including bazookas, grenades, and airstrikes. The terrain is fully destructible, so players can use explosions to create craters and tunnels to gain an advantage.

One of the key elements of Worms is its weapon variety. Players have access to a wide range of weapons, each with its own unique properties. Some weapons, like the bazooka, are great for long-range attacks, while others, like the shotgun, are more effective at close range. Players must carefully choose the right weapon for the situation, taking into account the terrain and the position of their opponents.

In addition to the standard weapons, Worms also features a variety of special weapons and abilities. These include airstrikes, earthquakes, and even the ability to turn your worms into sheep. Special weapons can be devastatingly powerful, but they are also limited in number, so players must use them wisely.

Multiplayer Mayhem: Worms at War

Worms is best known for its multiplayer mode, which supports up to 16 players. Multiplayer games can be played on a single computer, making it a great party game. The game also features a variety of multiplayer modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag.

Multiplayer Worms is a chaotic and often hilarious experience. Players must work together to eliminate their opponents, but they also have to be wary of friendly fire. The game’s destructible terrain and wide range of weapons create endless possibilities for creative and over-the-top battles.

Reception and Legacy: Worms Endures

Worms was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, humor, and multiplayer capabilities. Worms has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today.

The Worms franchise has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, but the original game remains a classic. Worms (1995) is a timeless game that continues to entertain and challenge players of all ages.

Behind the Scenes: Worms in Development

Worms was originally developed for the Amiga computer. The game was inspired by a variety of sources, including the classic artillery game Scorched Earth and the Worms comic strip by Biff.

Team17 initially planned to release Worms on the Virtual Boy, but the console’s failure led them to cancel this plan. Worms was eventually released for the Amiga, DOS, and Windows in 1995.

Critical Analysis: Worms’ Enduring Appeal

Worms has stood the test of time for a number of reasons. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay is easy to learn but difficult to master. The wide range of weapons and abilities allows for endless strategic possibilities. And the game’s multiplayer mode is a blast, providing hours of chaotic and hilarious fun.

In addition to its gameplay, Worms is also known for its humor. The game’s characters are full of personality, and the game is filled with witty dialogue and slapstick humor. Worms’ humor helps to make the game more accessible and enjoyable, even for players who are not typically fans of strategy games.

Cultural Impact: Worms in Popular Culture

Worms has had a significant impact on popular culture. The game has been referenced in numerous TV shows, movies, and video games. The Worms characters have also been featured in a variety of merchandise, including t-shirts, plush toys, and even a comic book series.

Worms is a true classic that has entertained millions of players around the world. The game’s innovative gameplay, humor, and multiplayer capabilities have made it a timeless masterpiece. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Worms (1995) is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Review Score

9/10

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The Light Corridor (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

The Light Corridor: A Retrospective

Released in 1990, The Light Corridor is a challenging and addictive platformer that will test your skills and reflexes. Navigate a dangerous corridor filled with obstacles and collect power-ups to reach the end.

The game is simple to learn but difficult to master. You control a paddle that can move left and right. A metal ball is attached to the paddle by a spring and can be released by pressing the fire button. The ball will then travel down the corridor until it hits a wall or obstacle and bounces back towards the player. The player must then hit the ball again to keep it in play.

If the player misses the ball, it will hit them and they will lose a life. The game will then continue from where the player stopped, and the ball will once again be attached to the paddle.

The corridor is filled with a variety of obstacles, including moving elevator-style doors, spikes, and pits. The player must carefully time their jumps and shots to avoid these obstacles and reach the end of the corridor.

There are also a variety of power-ups that can help the player progress through the game. These power-ups include extra lives, invincibility, and speed boosts.

The Light Corridor is a challenging but rewarding game that will provide hours of enjoyment. With its simple controls and addictive gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of retro platformers.

Gameplay

The player controls a paddle that can move left and right. A metal ball is attached to the paddle by a spring and can be released by pressing the fire button. The ball will then travel down the corridor until it hits a wall or obstacle and bounces back towards the player. The player must then hit the ball again to keep it in play.

If the player misses the ball, it will hit them and they will lose a life. The game will then continue from where the player stopped, and the ball will once again be attached to the paddle.

The corridor is filled with a variety of obstacles, including moving elevator-style doors, spikes, and pits. The player must carefully time their jumps and shots to avoid these obstacles and reach the end of the corridor.

There are also a variety of power-ups that can help the player progress through the game. These power-ups include extra lives, invincibility, and speed boosts.

Graphics and Sound

The Light Corridor’s graphics are simple but effective. The corridor is a long, narrow space with a variety of obstacles. The player character is a small paddle, and the ball is a metal sphere. The power-ups are represented by colorful icons.

The game’s sound effects are minimal but effective. The ball makes a clinking sound when it hits the paddle or an obstacle. The player character makes a grunt when they lose a life.

Difficulty

The Light Corridor is a challenging game. The corridor is filled with a variety of obstacles, and the player must carefully time their jumps and shots to avoid them. The game also gets more difficult as the player progresses, with new obstacles and enemies being introduced.

Replayability

The Light Corridor is a replayable game. There are 50 levels in total, and the game gets more difficult as the player progresses. There are also a variety of power-ups that can help the player progress through the game.

Overall

The Light Corridor is a challenging and addictive platformer that will provide hours of enjoyment. With its simple controls and addictive gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of retro platformers.

Tips for Playing

Here are a few tips for playing The Light Corridor:

  • Time your jumps and shots carefully to avoid obstacles.
  • Use the power-ups to your advantage.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies.
  • Practice makes perfect!

Conclusion

The Light Corridor is a classic retro platformer that is still enjoyed by gamers today. Its simple controls and addictive gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding game, then The Light Corridor is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8/10

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Deluxe Ski Jump 2 (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Deluxe Ski Jump 2 (2000): A Classic Ski Jumping Game

Deluxe Ski Jump 2 (DSJ2) is the second title in Mediamond’s legendary series of DOS-based ski jumping games. It was released in 2000, and it quickly became one of the most popular ski jumping games of all time. DSJ2 is known for its realistic physics, challenging gameplay, and wide variety of hills.

Gameplay

DSJ2 is a ski jumping game in which players control a ski jumper as they attempt to jump as far as possible. Players must time their takeoff and landing perfectly in order to achieve maximum distance. DSJ2 features a variety of different hills, each with its own unique challenges. Players can also compete against each other in tournaments and challenges.

Features

DSJ2 is packed with features, including:

  • 32 different hills
  • World Cup, team cup, and practice modes
  • Replays
  • Web-based hill records
  • Up to 16 players can play simultaneously

Reception

DSJ2 was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its realistic physics, challenging gameplay, and wide variety of hills. DSJ2 was also a hit with fans of the sport, who appreciated the game’s attention to detail and realism.

Legacy

DSJ2 is considered to be one of the best ski jumping games ever made. It is still played by many fans of the sport today. DSJ2 has also been cited as an influence on later ski jumping games, such as the Ski Jumping series and the Winter Sports series.

Tips for Playing DSJ2

Here are a few tips for playing DSJ2:

  • Time your takeoff and landing perfectly.
  • Use the wind to your advantage.
  • Choose the right skis for the hill you are jumping.
  • Practice makes perfect.

Conclusion

Deluxe Ski Jump 2 is a classic ski jumping game that is still enjoyed by many fans of the sport today. If you are looking for a challenging and realistic ski jumping game, then DSJ2 is definitely worth checking out.

Additional Information

  • DSJ2 was developed by Mediamond and published by TopWare Interactive.
  • DSJ2 was released on December 1, 2000.
  • DSJ2 is available for DOS, Windows, and Macintosh.
  • DSJ2 is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

Screenshots

[Image of a ski jumper in mid-air] [Image of the DSJ2 title screen] [Image of a skier standing at the top of a hill]

Videos

[Video of a DSJ2 gameplay] [Video of a DSJ2 tournament] [Video of a DSJ2 world record jump]

Links

Review Score

0/10

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Hard Drivin’ (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Hard Drivin’ (1989)

Hard Drivin’ is a 3D arcade racing game released by Atari Games in 1989. It was one of the first arcade games to use 3D polygon graphics, and it was a critical and commercial success. Hard Drivin’ is still considered one of the best arcade racing games of all time.

Gameplay

The player controls a high-performance sports car and must race around a course as fast as possible, hitting checkpoints to extend their time. The course has two sections: a speed track and a stunt track. The speed track is longer and allows the player to achieve higher speeds, while the stunt track requires the player to perform stunts such as jumps, loops, and drifts.

The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player uses a steering wheel and pedals to control the car. The car’s handling is realistic, and the player must be careful not to crash. If the car crashes, the player loses time and must start the race over from the last checkpoint.

Graphics

Hard Drivin’ was one of the first arcade games to use 3D polygon graphics. The graphics were groundbreaking at the time, and they still hold up today. The cars and tracks are rendered in detail, and the sense of speed is exhilarating.

Force feedback

One of the most unique features of Hard Drivin’ is its force feedback steering wheel. The steering wheel provides resistance to the player’s input, simulating the feel of driving a real car. The force feedback makes the game more immersive and challenging.

Home conversions

Hard Drivin’ was ported to several home computers and consoles, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and Sega Genesis. The home conversions retain most of the graphics and gameplay of the arcade version, but they lack the force feedback steering wheel.

Legacy

Hard Drivin’ is considered one of the most influential arcade racing games of all time. It was one of the first games to use 3D polygon graphics, and it helped to popularize the force feedback steering wheel. Hard Drivin’ is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains a classic example of the arcade racing genre.

Review

Hard Drivin’ is a classic arcade racing game that still holds up today. The 3D graphics are impressive, and the gameplay is fast-paced and exciting. The force feedback steering wheel adds to the immersion and challenge. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you need to check out Hard Drivin’.

Score: 8/10

Pros

  • Impressive 3D graphics
  • Fast-paced and exciting gameplay
  • Force feedback steering wheel
  • Classic arcade experience

Cons

  • Home conversions lack force feedback steering wheel
  • Can be difficult for beginners

Review Score

8/10

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James Bond 007: Goldfinger (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

James Bond 007: Goldfinger (1986): A Classic Espionage Adventure

Released in 1986, James Bond 007: Goldfinger is an action-adventure game based on the iconic James Bond film of the same name. Developed by Eurocom and published by Mindscape, the game was released on various platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.

Plot

The game follows James Bond as he investigates the plot of Auric Goldfinger, a gold magnate who plans to contaminate the world’s gold supply with radiation, rendering it worthless and giving him control over the global economy. Bond must stop Goldfinger’s plan, save the day, and, of course, romance the beautiful Pussy Galore.

Gameplay

James Bond 007: Goldfinger is a side-scrolling action-adventure game. Players control Bond as he traverses various levels, including Goldfinger’s factory, Fort Knox, and even outer space. Bond is equipped with a variety of weapons, including his signature Walther PPK pistol, and must use stealth, combat, and gadgets to overcome enemies and progress through the game.

The game features a variety of gameplay elements, including:

  • Exploration: Bond can explore the game’s levels, interact with objects, and uncover secrets.
  • Combat: Bond can engage in hand-to-hand combat or use weapons to defeat enemies.
  • Stealth: Bond can use stealth to avoid detection and take down enemies silently.
  • Gadgets: Bond has access to a variety of gadgets, such as a laser watch and a grappling hook, to help him overcome obstacles and complete missions.

Characters

James Bond 007: Goldfinger features a cast of iconic characters from the film, including:

  • James Bond: The legendary British secret agent, tasked with stopping Goldfinger’s plot.
  • Auric Goldfinger: A ruthless gold magnate and Bond’s primary antagonist.
  • Oddjob: Goldfinger’s mute henchman, known for his deadly bowler hat.
  • Pussy Galore: A former gold smuggler and love interest for Bond.

Reception

James Bond 007: Goldfinger was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s faithful adaptation of the film, its challenging gameplay, and its impressive graphics and sound. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

James Bond 007: Goldfinger is considered a classic game in the James Bond video game franchise. It is fondly remembered for its challenging gameplay, iconic characters, and faithful adaptation of the film. The game has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Nintendo Switch in 2021.

Review

James Bond 007: Goldfinger is a classic espionage adventure game that still holds up today. The game’s challenging gameplay, iconic characters, and faithful adaptation of the film make it a must-play for fans of the James Bond franchise.

Score: 8/10

Recommendation:

If you’re a fan of James Bond, action-adventure games, or classic video games in general, then I highly recommend checking out James Bond 007: Goldfinger. It’s a fun, challenging, and nostalgic experience that will appeal to gamers of all ages.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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