Publisher: Logotron

Quadralien (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Quadralien (1988): A Challenging and Engaging Action/Strategy Classic

Released in 1988, Quadralien is a challenging and engaging action/strategy game that combines sophisticated arcade action with challenging puzzles. The game was developed by British studio Software Creations and published by Gremlin Graphics. It was released on a variety of platforms, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.

In Quadralien, the player takes control of a team of six droids who must work their way through 19 chambers of a cybernetic power station that has been infested by Quadraliens, evil aliens who are threatening to cause a meltdown of cosmic proportions. Each droid has its own unique abilities, and the player must use them strategically to overcome the Quadraliens and complete each chamber.

The gameplay in Quadralien is a mix of action and strategy. The player must use their droids to fight their way through the Quadraliens, but they must also use their wits to solve the puzzles that block their path. The game’s 19 chambers are filled with a variety of obstacles and enemies, and the player must use their droids’ abilities to overcome them all.

One of the things that makes Quadralien so challenging is the fact that the player only has a limited number of droids. If a droid is destroyed, it is gone for good. This means that the player must be careful not to lose any of their droids, or they will quickly find themselves overwhelmed by the Quadraliens.

Another thing that makes Quadralien challenging is the fact that the game’s time limit. The player must complete each chamber within a certain amount of time, or the Quadraliens will cause a meltdown. This adds an extra layer of stress to the game, and it forces the player to think quickly and make decisions on the fly.

Despite its challenges, Quadralien is a very rewarding game. The game’s puzzles are well-designed and the action is intense and exciting. The game also has a great sense of atmosphere, and the player can really feel the tension as they try to stop the Quadraliens from causing a meltdown.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Quadralien are colorful and detailed. The game’s characters and environments are well-drawn, and the game’s use of color is very effective. The game’s soundtrack is also very good, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and tension.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Quadralien is a mix of action and strategy. The player must use their droids to fight their way through the Quadraliens, but they must also use their wits to solve the puzzles that block their path. The game’s 19 chambers are filled with a variety of obstacles and enemies, and the player must use their droids’ abilities to overcome them all.

Replay Value

Quadralien has a lot of replay value. The game’s 19 chambers are filled with a variety of challenges, and the player can experiment with different strategies to complete them. The game also has a number of hidden secrets, which can keep the player coming back for more.

Overall

Quadralien is a challenging and engaging action/strategy game that is sure to please fans of both genres. The game’s well-designed puzzles, intense action, and great sense of atmosphere make it a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Review Score

8/10

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Bad Company (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Bad Company (1989): A Retro Gem Worth Revisiting

Released in 1989, Bad Company is a classic action-strategy game that still holds up today. Developed by DMA Design (later known as Rockstar North), the game puts players in control of a squad of space marines tasked with clearing alien-infested worlds.

Bad Company is set in a future where Earth is dying and humanity must colonize other worlds. However, these worlds are already inhabited by hostile aliens, and it’s up to the player to clear them out.

The game is played from a top-down perspective, and players control a squad of up to four space marines. Each marine has their own unique weapons and abilities, and players must use them strategically to overcome the alien hordes.

Bad Company features a variety of missions, each with its own unique objectives. Players must battle their way through alien-infested cities, jungles, and deserts, using a variety of weapons and vehicles. The game also features a number of boss battles, which require players to use all of their skills to defeat powerful alien enemies.

Bad Company was praised for its innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and catchy soundtrack. The game was a commercial success, and it helped to establish DMA Design as one of the leading developers of action-strategy games.

Gameplay

Bad Company is a squad-based action-strategy game. Players control a squad of up to four space marines, each with their own unique weapons and abilities. Players must use their marines strategically to overcome the alien hordes.

The game features a variety of missions, each with its own unique objectives. Players must battle their way through alien-infested cities, jungles, and deserts, using a variety of weapons and vehicles. The game also features a number of boss battles, which require players to use all of their skills to defeat powerful alien enemies.

Graphics

Bad Company was released in 1989, and its graphics were cutting-edge for the time. The game features detailed sprites and backgrounds, and the animation is smooth and fluid. The game’s art style is a mix of science fiction and fantasy, and it creates a unique and immersive world.

Sound

Bad Company’s soundtrack is one of the most memorable aspects of the game. The music is composed by David Whittaker, and it perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere of action and adventure. The sound effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a sense of immersion.

Overall

Bad Company is a classic action-strategy game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a must-play for retro gaming fans.

Tips for Playing Bad Company

  • Use your marines’ unique abilities to your advantage. Each marine has their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to use them wisely.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings. The aliens in Bad Company are always lurking, so it’s important to keep your eyes peeled.
  • Don’t be afraid to use vehicles. Vehicles can be a great way to get around the levels quickly and to take out large groups of aliens.
  • Save your game often. Bad Company is a challenging game, so it’s important to save your progress often.

Legacy

Bad Company was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish DMA Design as one of the leading developers of action-strategy games. The game has been ported to a number of different platforms, and it is still enjoyed by retro gaming fans today.

Bad Company also had a significant impact on the development of the Grand Theft Auto series. DMA Design went on to develop the first two Grand Theft Auto games, and many of the ideas and concepts introduced in Bad Company were later expanded upon in the GTA series.

Conclusion

Bad Company is a classic action-strategy game that is still worth playing today. The game’s innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a must-play for retro gaming fans. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding game to play, then Bad Company is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Archipelagos (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Archipelagos: A Unique and Challenging Action-Adventure with a Strong Environmental Message

Released in 1989, Archipelagos is a unique and challenging action-adventure game with a strong environmental message. As an Environmental Purifier (EP), you must explore polluted landscapes and destroy radioactive nodes and obelisks in order to restore the planet. With its innovative 360-degree gameplay and stunning visuals, Archipelagos is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and environmentalism.

Gameplay

Archipelagos is played from a first-person perspective. You control an EP who is equipped with a variety of weapons and tools, including a laser blaster, a flamethrower, and a grappling hook. You must use these weapons and tools to destroy radioactive nodes and obelisks, which are scattered throughout the game world.

The game world is divided into a series of archipelagos, each of which has its own unique environment and challenges. You must explore each archipelago, find the radioactive nodes and obelisks, and destroy them. As you progress through the game, you will encounter a variety of enemies, including mutant creatures, Necromancers, and Aircleaners.

Environmental Message

Archipelagos has a strong environmental message. The game world is a polluted and dangerous place, and it is up to the player to clean it up. The game shows the consequences of pollution and environmental destruction, and it encourages players to think about their own impact on the environment.

Graphics and Sound

Archipelagos was one of the first games to use 360-degree graphics. This allowed the player to explore the game world in any direction, and it created a truly immersive experience. The game’s graphics are still impressive today, and they help to create a believable and atmospheric world.

The game’s sound is also excellent. The music is haunting and atmospheric, and it helps to create a sense of urgency and danger. The sound effects are also well done, and they help to bring the game world to life.

Legacy

Archipelagos was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and strong environmental message. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Archipelagos is a unique and challenging action-adventure game with a strong environmental message. It is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and environmentalism.

Tips for Playing Archipelagos

  • Explore every nook and cranny of each archipelago. There are often hidden items and secrets to be found.
  • Use your weapons and tools wisely. Each weapon and tool has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to use the right tool for the job.
  • Be careful of the enemies. The enemies in Archipelagos are tough, so it is important to be careful and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
  • Don’t give up. Archipelagos is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. If you stick with it, you will eventually succeed.

Environmental Themes in Archipelagos

  • Pollution and environmental destruction
  • The consequences of human activity on the environment
  • The importance of protecting the environment

Educational Value of Archipelagos

Archipelagos can be a valuable educational tool. The game can teach players about the importance of protecting the environment, and it can help them to understand the consequences of pollution and environmental destruction.

Conclusion

Archipelagos is a unique and challenging action-adventure game with a strong environmental message. It is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and environmentalism. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and strong environmental message make it a truly special experience.

Review Score

8/10

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Star Goose! (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Star Goose! (1988): A Top-Down Shooter That’s Out of This World

Released in 1988, Star Goose! is a top-down, vertical-scrolling shooter that puts players in the cockpit of a starfighter and tasks them with defending the galaxy from an alien invasion. The game was developed and published by Hudson Soft and was released on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

Star Goose! is known for its colorful and detailed graphics, fast and frantic gameplay, and catchy soundtrack. The game has been praised for its smooth scrolling, responsive controls, and variety of enemies and bosses.

Gameplay

Star Goose! is a vertically scrolling shooter in which the player controls a starfighter that can move up, down, left, and right. The player’s ship is armed with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player must use these weapons to defeat waves of enemy spaceships and bosses.

The game is divided into six stages, each with its own unique set of enemies and bosses. The stages become increasingly difficult as the player progresses, and the player must use all of their skills and weapons to survive.

Graphics

Star Goose! is known for its colorful and detailed graphics. The game’s backgrounds are full of stars, planets, and other space objects. The enemies and bosses are also well-designed and animated. The game’s graphics are impressive, especially considering that it was released on the NES.

Sound

Star Goose! has a catchy soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s fast-paced action. The music is upbeat and energetic, and it helps to create a sense of excitement and urgency. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.

Controls

Star Goose! has responsive controls that make it easy to control the player’s ship. The ship can be moved smoothly and quickly, and the weapons are easy to fire. The game’s controls are essential to its fast-paced gameplay, and they work perfectly.

Enemies and Bosses

Star Goose! features a variety of enemies and bosses. The enemies come in all shapes and sizes, and they each have their own unique攻擊 patterns. The bosses are even more challenging, and they require the player to use all of their skills and weapons to defeat them.

Overall

Star Goose! is a top-down, vertical-scrolling shooter that’s out of this world. The game’s colorful and detailed graphics, fast and frantic gameplay, and catchy soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding shooter, then you need to check out Star Goose!

Pros

  • Colorful and detailed graphics
  • Fast and frantic gameplay
  • Catchy soundtrack
  • Variety of enemies and bosses
  • Responsive controls

Cons

  • Can be difficult for beginners
  • Short length

Score

9/10

Review Score

7.5/10

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Star-blaze

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Star-blaze: A Blazing Star in the Shoot-Em-Up Galaxy

Released in 1997 by Psikyo, Star-blaze is a vertical scrolling shoot-em-up arcade game that quickly gained a cult following among fans of the genre. With its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy soundtrack, Star-blaze is a true gem that still holds up today.

Gameplay

Star-blaze is a classic shoot-em-up in the vein of games like Gradius and R-Type. The player controls a spaceship that scrolls vertically through a variety of levels, blasting away at enemy spaceships and dodging their projectiles. The game features a variety of power-ups that can be collected to enhance the player’s firepower and abilities, such as homing missiles, spread shots, and lasers.

One of the things that sets Star-blaze apart from other shoot-em-ups is its unique “Blaze” system. By collecting Blaze power-ups, the player can fill up a meter that allows them to unleash a powerful screen-clearing attack. This attack can be used to quickly dispatch large groups of enemies or to take down powerful bosses.

Levels

Star-blaze features a total of six levels, each with its own unique theme and enemies. The levels areどれもchallenging, but they are also fair and rewarding. The game’s difficulty curve is well-balanced, and players will feel a sense of accomplishment as they progress through the levels.

Graphics and Sound

Star-blaze is a beautiful game for its time. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the animations are fluid. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with catchy tunes that will get your adrenaline pumping.

Overall

Star-blaze is a phenomenal shoot-em-up arcade classic that still holds up today. Its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy soundtrack will keep you hooked for hours. If you’re a fan of shoot-em-ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Star-blaze.

Tips for Playing Star-blaze

  • Collect as many Blaze power-ups as you can. The Blaze attack is your most powerful weapon, and it can be used to quickly dispatch large groups of enemies or to take down powerful bosses.
  • Use the environment to your advantage. There are many obstacles in the levels that can be used to block enemy fire or to trap enemies.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different power-ups. There are a variety of power-ups available in Star-blaze, and each one can be used to create a different playstyle.
  • Practice makes perfect. Star-blaze is a challenging game, but it is also a fair game. If you put in the time to practice, you will eventually be able to beat the game.

Legacy

Star-blaze was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best shoot-em-ups ever made. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Dreamcast. Star-blaze has also been included in several compilations of classic arcade games.

The game’s success has spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Star-blaze 2 (1998), Star-blaze 3 (2001), and Star-blaze EX (2005). The Star-blaze series is still going strong today, and it is one of the most popular shoot-em-up franchises in the world.

Review Score

9/10

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Cloud Kingdoms (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Cloud Kingdoms (1990) Review

Cloud Kingdoms is a 2D platformer game developed and published by Kemco for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The game was released in 1990 and is known for its colorful graphics, cute characters, and challenging gameplay.

The player controls Terry, a young boy who must travel through the Cloud Kingdoms to collect crystals and defeat the evil Baron von Bansai. Von Bansai has stolen Terry’s precious collection of crystals, and Terry must get them back in order to save the day.

Cloud Kingdoms is a side-scrolling platformer with simple but effective gameplay. Terry can run, jump, and shoot projectiles. He can also use a variety of power-ups to help him on his quest, such as a speed boost, a double jump, and a shield.

The game’s levels are varied and challenging, and each one presents a new obstacle for Terry to overcome. There are enemies to defeat, traps to avoid, and puzzles to solve. Terry must also collect keys to open doors and find hidden items.

Cloud Kingdoms is a well-made and enjoyable platformer that is sure to appeal to fans of retro games. The game’s graphics are colorful and charming, the gameplay is challenging but fair, and the music is catchy. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging 2D platformer, then Cloud Kingdoms is definitely worth checking out.

Gameplay

Cloud Kingdoms is a side-scrolling platformer with simple but effective gameplay. Terry can run, jump, and shoot projectiles. He can also use a variety of power-ups to help him on his quest, such as a speed boost, a double jump, and a shield.

The game’s levels are varied and challenging, and each one presents a new obstacle for Terry to overcome. There are enemies to defeat, traps to avoid, and puzzles to solve. Terry must also collect keys to open doors and find hidden items.

One of the things that makes Cloud Kingdoms so challenging is the fact that Terry can only take one hit before he dies. This means that the player must be careful and strategic in their movements. They must also be aware of their surroundings and the location of enemies.

Graphics and Sound

Cloud Kingdoms’ graphics are colorful and charming. The game’s world is full of bright and vibrant colors, and the characters are all well-designed and expressive. The game’s backgrounds are also very detailed, and they help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

The game’s music is also very good. The soundtrack is catchy and upbeat, and it helps to create a sense of excitement and adventure. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.

Overall

Cloud Kingdoms is a well-made and enjoyable platformer that is sure to appeal to fans of retro games. The game’s graphics are colorful and charming, the gameplay is challenging but fair, and the music is catchy. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging 2D platformer, then Cloud Kingdoms is definitely worth checking out.

Score

I give Cloud Kingdoms a score of 8/10. The game is well-made and enjoyable, but it is also quite challenging. The game’s graphics are colorful and charming, the gameplay is challenging but fair, and the music is catchy. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging 2D platformer, then Cloud Kingdoms is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Eye of Horus (1989)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Eye of Horus: A Mystical Adventure Through Ancient Egypt

Released in 1989, Eye of Horus is a captivating action-adventure game that transports players to the enigmatic world of ancient Egypt. Embodying a mystical shaman, players embark on a perilous quest through the depths of a treacherous pyramid, seeking to retrieve the legendary Eye of Horus.

Gameplay: A Blend of Action, Adventure, and Puzzle-Solving

Eye of Horus offers a captivating blend of gameplay elements, seamlessly intertwining action, adventure, and puzzle-solving. Players navigate through a series of labyrinthine levels, each filled with deadly traps, challenging puzzles, and formidable enemies.

The game’s unique mechanic lies in the player’s ability to transform between human and bird form. As a human, the shaman can walk, jump, and interact with objects. However, by pressing the up arrow, players can transform into a bird, gaining the ability to fly and explore levels from a different perspective. This transformation mechanic adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, allowing players to navigate treacherous areas and solve puzzles that would otherwise be impossible.

A Journey Through Ancient Egypt’s Mystical Depths

Eye of Horus takes players on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of ancient Egypt. The game’s visuals, while simple by today’s standards, effectively capture the atmosphere of the era. Players traverse through dimly lit chambers, adorned with hieroglyphs and ancient artifacts, while the haunting melodies of Egyptian-inspired music add to the immersive experience.

The Eye of Horus: A Symbol of Power and Divinity

Central to the game’s narrative is the Eye of Horus, an ancient Egyptian symbol of protection, healing, and restoration. According to legend, the Eye of Horus was torn out by the evil god Set during a battle over the throne of Egypt. The player’s quest is to recover the Eye of Horus and restore it to its rightful place, ensuring the balance of power and the well-being of the land.

A Test of Skill, Patience, and Ingenuity

Eye of Horus is a challenging yet rewarding game that tests players’ skills, patience, and ingenuity. Each level presents a unique set of obstacles and puzzles that require careful observation, quick reflexes, and creative thinking to overcome. The game’s difficulty gradually increases as players progress, culminating in a thrilling final confrontation that will test their mettle.

A Nostalgic Gem for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts

For retro gaming enthusiasts, Eye of Horus is a nostalgic gem that evokes fond memories of the golden age of gaming. Its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and timeless appeal have cemented its place as a beloved classic among fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of retro gaming, Eye of Horus is an adventure that will captivate and entertain.

Conclusion: A Timeless Adventure Worth Revisiting

Eye of Horus (1989) is a timeless adventure that continues to captivate gamers with its unique blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving. Its immersive atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and symbolic narrative make it a standout title in the annals of retro gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the genre, Eye of Horus is a journey worth taking.

Review Score

8/10

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