Publisher: Mastertronic

Chiller (1985)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Chiller (1985): A Spine-Tingling Adventure

Chiller is a classic horror adventure game released in 1985 for the ZX Spectrum. It was developed by Incentive Software and published by Mastertronic. The game is set in a dark and spooky mansion on a hilltop, and the player must guide the protagonist through a series of dangerous and atmospheric environments to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend.

Gameplay

Chiller is a side-scrolling adventure game with a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. The player controls the protagonist, a man named John, as he traverses a variety of locations, including a forest, a cinema, a ghetto, and a graveyard. Each location is filled with dangerous creatures, such as ghouls, zombies, ghosts, and bats, which will drain John’s energy if they touch him.

To complete each screen, John must collect five blue crosses. Once he has collected all five crosses, he can proceed to the next screen. However, the game is not as simple as it seems. John’s girlfriend, Mary, has also been kidnapped and is being held in the mansion. Once John finds Mary, he must escort her back through the same territories, switching between characters to collect the blue (him) and red (her) crosses as quickly as possible.

Graphics and Sound

Chiller’s graphics are simple but effective, with a dark and spooky atmosphere that perfectly captures the game’s horror theme. The game’s sound effects are also excellent, with eerie sound effects and music that create a sense of tension and suspense.

Reception

Chiller was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its atmospheric graphics, challenging gameplay, and innovative use of multiple characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Chiller is considered to be one of the greatest horror adventure games of all time. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, atmospheric graphics, and challenging puzzles. The game has also been cited as an influence on many later horror games, such as Alone in the Dark and Resident Evil.

Conclusion

Chiller is a classic horror adventure game that still stands up today. It is a challenging and atmospheric game that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. If you are a fan of horror games, then you should definitely check out Chiller.

Tips for Playing Chiller

  • Be careful not to let the creatures touch you, or you will lose energy.
  • Collect all five crosses on each screen to proceed to the next screen.
  • Once you find Mary, switch between characters to collect the blue (him) and red (her) crosses as quickly as possible.
  • Don’t forget to explore every nook and cranny of each location. There are often hidden items and secrets to be found.
  • If you get stuck, don’t be afraid to consult a walkthrough.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Bomb Fusion (1989)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Bomb Fusion: A Classic Single-Screen Platformer from the Golden Age of Gaming

Released in 1989 for the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Commodore 64, Bomb Fusion is a single-screen platformer that challenges players to defuse bombs before time runs out. With its fast-paced gameplay, vibrant visuals, and addictive puzzle elements, Bomb Fusion is a must-play for fans of classic platformers.

Gameplay

Bomb Fusion is a single-screen platformer in which the player controls a bomb disposal expert tasked with defusing bombs before they explode. The game is played on a single screen, and the player must navigate the environment, avoiding obstacles and enemies, while collecting power-ups and defusing bombs.

The bombs in Bomb Fusion are color-coded, and each color represents a different type of bomb. The player must use the correct power-up to defuse each type of bomb. For example, red bombs can only be defused with red power-ups, and blue bombs can only be defused with blue power-ups.

The player must also be mindful of the time limit. Each level has a timer that counts down, and if the player does not defuse all of the bombs before the timer reaches zero, the level will be lost.

Levels

Bomb Fusion features a total of 50 levels, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The levels become increasingly difficult as the player progresses, and the later levels require quick reflexes and careful planning to complete.

Graphics and Sound

Bomb Fusion’s graphics are colorful and vibrant, and the game’s soundtrack is catchy and upbeat. The game’s visuals are simple but effective, and the character and enemy designs are charming and memorable.

Legacy

Bomb Fusion was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is considered to be one of the best single-screen platformers of all time. The game has been praised for its addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and vibrant visuals.

Bomb Fusion has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the PC, Mac, and mobile devices. The game is still enjoyed by fans of classic platformers today, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Bomb Fusion is a classic single-screen platformer that offers a challenging and addictive experience. With its fast-paced gameplay, vibrant visuals, and catchy soundtrack, Bomb Fusion is a must-play for fans of classic platformers.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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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

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Back to Reality (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Back to Reality (1986): A Nostalgic Trip Through a Dystopian Future

Released in 1986, Back to Reality is a side-scrolling platformer that takes place in a dystopian future. The player controls Zack, a young man who must travel through a series of dangerous levels to rescue his girlfriend, Julie, from the clutches of the evil Dr. Evil.

The game is known for its challenging gameplay, which requires the player to use quick reflexes and precise timing to navigate through the levels. Zack can run, jump, and shoot, and he must use all of his skills to avoid the various enemies and obstacles that stand in his way.

Back to Reality was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best platformers of its era. The game’s graphics, music, and gameplay have all been praised, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years.

Gameplay

Back to Reality is a side-scrolling platformer with eight levels. The player controls Zack, who must run, jump, and shoot his way through the levels to rescue his girlfriend, Julie.

The game’s levels are filled with a variety of enemies and obstacles, including robots, lasers, and spikes. Zack must use his quick reflexes and precise timing to avoid these hazards and reach the end of each level.

In addition to the main story mode, Back to Reality also features a bonus level that can be accessed by collecting all of the hidden items in the game. The bonus level is a challenging gauntlet that tests the player’s skills to the limit.

Graphics and Sound

Back to Reality’s graphics are colorful and detailed, and they do a good job of creating a sense of atmosphere. The game’s levels are varied and interesting, and they each have their own unique look and feel.

The game’s music 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 world to life.

Story

Back to Reality’s story is simple but effective. Zack must rescue his girlfriend, Julie, from the evil Dr. Evil. Along the way, he must travel through a variety of dangerous levels and defeat a variety of enemies.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes, which are interspersed between the levels. The cutscenes are well-written and they do a good job of developing the characters and setting up the stakes of the game.

Legacy

Back to Reality was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best platformers of its era. The game’s graphics, music, and gameplay have all been praised, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years.

Back to Reality has been cited as an influence on a number of other platformers, including Super Mario Bros. 3 and Sonic the Hedgehog. The game’s legacy is also evident in the number of fan-made levels and mods that have been created for it.

Conclusion

Back to Reality is a classic platformer that still holds up today. With its challenging gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music, it’s a must-play for any retro gaming fan.

If you’re looking for a fun and challenging platformer to play, then I highly recommend checking out Back to Reality. It’s a game that willきっと provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8/10

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ElektraGlide (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

ElektraGlide: A Neon-Soaked Arcade Masterpiece from the 1980s

In the annals of arcade gaming history, ElektraGlide stands as a shining beacon of innovation and excitement. Released in 1986 by the legendary developer Sega, ElektraGlide was a groundbreaking title that combined the adrenaline-pumping action of motorcycle racing with the cutting-edge technology of laserdisc technology.

A Visual Spectacle

One of the most striking features of ElektraGlide was its use of laserdisc technology. At a time when most arcade games were still using pixelated sprites and limited color palettes, ElektraGlide showcased stunning full-motion video footage that brought the game’s futuristic world to life. The vibrant neon cityscapes, sleek motorcycles, and menacing敌人车辆 were rendered with incredible detail, creating an immersive and visually captivating experience.

Gameplay Innovation

Beyond its visual prowess, ElektraGlide also introduced several innovative gameplay elements that set it apart from its contemporaries. Players took control of a futuristic motorcycle equipped with a powerful laser cannon. The goal was to race through neon-drenched city streets, dodging obstacles, and blasting enemy vehicles while avoiding crashes.

One of the unique aspects of ElektraGlide was its branching level design. Depending on the player’s performance and the paths they chose, the game could lead to multiple different endings. This added an element of replayability and encouraged players to explore the game’s various challenges.

A Blend of Speed and Strategy

ElektraGlide skillfully balanced speed and strategy. While the game required quick reflexes and precise maneuvering to navigate the treacherous tracks, it also rewarded players for careful planning and resource management. Players had to decide when to use their limited supply of laser shots to take out enemy vehicles or clear obstacles, and when to conserve them for more critical moments.

Arcade Legacy

Upon its release, ElektraGlide became an instant hit in arcades worldwide. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and catchy soundtrack captivated players of all ages. The game’s popularity spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including the critically acclaimed arcade title Turbo Outrun (1989).

Cultural Impact

ElektraGlide’s influence extended beyond the arcade scene. The game’s futuristic aesthetic and synth-heavy soundtrack became synonymous with the 1980s, and its imagery has been referenced in numerous works of popular culture, including movies, TV shows, and music videos.

A Timeless Classic

Over three decades after its initial release, ElektraGlide remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and timeless appeal continue to captivate players today. Whether experienced in its original arcade form or through modern emulation, ElektraGlide is a testament to the golden age of arcade gaming and a reminder of the enduring power of innovation and creativity.

Conclusion

ElektraGlide (1986) is a seminal arcade masterpiece that pushed the boundaries of gaming technology and gameplay innovation. Its stunning laserdisc visuals, branching level design, and blend of speed and strategy captivated players worldwide and left an indelible mark on the history of arcade gaming. Today, ElektraGlide remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts and appreciated for its timeless appeal and cultural significance.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Countdown to Meltdown (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Countdown to Meltdown (1986)

Countdown to Meltdown is a real-time strategy game developed and published by Microprose in 1986. The game is set in a nuclear power plant that is on the verge of meltdown. The player must take control of a team of firefighters and engineers to contain the meltdown and prevent a catastrophic explosion.

The game is played from a top-down perspective. The player can control up to four units at a time, each with their own unique abilities. Firefighters can extinguish fires, while engineers can repair damaged equipment. The player must use their units to navigate the power plant, find the source of the meltdown, and contain it before it spreads.

Countdown to Meltdown is a challenging game that requires quick thinking and strategic planning. The player must constantly monitor the situation and make quick decisions in order to prevent the meltdown. The game is also very unforgiving, as a single mistake can lead to the destruction of the power plant and the deaths of the player’s units.

Despite its difficulty, Countdown to Meltdown is a very rewarding game. The player will feel a great sense of accomplishment when they are able to successfully contain the meltdown and save the day. The game is also very replayable, as there are multiple ways to complete each level.

Gameplay

Countdown to Meltdown is played in real time. The player controls a team of up to four units, each with their own unique abilities. Firefighters can extinguish fires, while engineers can repair damaged equipment. The player must use their units to navigate the power plant, find the source of the meltdown, and contain it before it spreads.

The game is played on a grid-based map. The player can move their units around the map by clicking on the desired destination. Units can also be ordered to attack enemies or interact with objects in the environment.

The player must constantly monitor the situation and make quick decisions in order to prevent the meltdown. The game is very unforgiving, as a single mistake can lead to the destruction of the power plant and the deaths of the player’s units.

Units

There are four types of units in Countdown to Meltdown: firefighters, engineers, scientists, and security guards. Each type of unit has its own unique abilities and strengths.

  • Firefighters can extinguish fires. They are also immune to the effects of radiation.
  • Engineers can repair damaged equipment. They can also build new structures, such as walls and decontamination chambers.
  • Scientists can research new technologies. They can also develop new weapons and equipment.
  • Security guards can attack enemies. They can also be used to guard important areas of the power plant.

The player must use their units wisely in order to succeed in Countdown to Meltdown. Each type of unit has its own unique role to play, and the player must use them in combination to overcome the challenges of the game.

Levels

Countdown to Meltdown has 10 levels. Each level is a different section of the power plant. The player must navigate each level, find the source of the meltdown, and contain it before it spreads.

The levels become increasingly difficult as the game progresses. The player will face more enemies, more hazards, and more difficult puzzles. The player must use all of their skills and resources in order to succeed.

Reception

Countdown to Meltdown was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its challenging difficulty, and its realistic graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Countdown to Meltdown is considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made. The game is still played by many people today, and it continues to be a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Legacy

Countdown to Meltdown has had a significant impact on the real-time strategy genre. The game’s innovative gameplay and challenging difficulty have inspired many other games in the genre. Countdown to Meltdown is also credited with popularizing the use of real-time physics in video games.

Countdown to Meltdown is a classic real-time strategy game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s innovative gameplay, challenging difficulty, and realistic graphics make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Speedball 2 HD (2013)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Speedball 2 HD: A Brutal Fusion of Handball and Ice Hockey in a Cyberpunk Dystopia

Introduction

Step into the neon-drenched, adrenaline-pumping world of Speedball 2 HD, a modern reincarnation of the classic futuristic cyberpunk sports game that captivated gamers in the early 1990s. Developed by Vivid Games and released in 2013, Speedball 2 HD is a brutal and exhilarating blend of handball and ice hockey, set in a dystopian world where violence and athleticism collide in a relentless spectacle.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Speed and Brutality

Speedball 2 HD retains the core gameplay mechanics of its predecessor while introducing several innovative twists. Players control a team of six cybernetically enhanced athletes in fast-paced, high-scoring matches that combine the finesse of handball with the bone-jarring physicality of ice hockey.

The objective is simple: score more goals than your opponent by launching the ball into their net using a combination of speed, skill, and brute force. However, achieving this is far from easy. Opposing teams will do everything in their power to stop you, from tackling and shoving to unleashing devastating special abilities that can cripple your players or even knock them unconscious.

The game takes place in a zero-gravity arena, allowing for gravity-defying leaps, aerial maneuvers, and lightning-fast ball exchanges. Players can jump, dash, and use power-ups to gain an advantage over their opponents. The ball itself behaves like a live grenade, bouncing erratically and exploding on impact, adding an extra layer of chaos and unpredictability to the gameplay.

Setting: A Dystopian Cyberpunk Vision

Speedball 2 HD is set in a gritty, neon-soaked cyberpunk dystopia where corporations rule and violence is a way of life. The sport of Speedball has become a popular form of entertainment, providing a brutal outlet for the masses to vent their frustrations and escape the harsh realities of their everyday lives.

The game’s arenas are massive, high-tech structures adorned with neon lights and towering screens that project live footage of the matches. The crowds are a mix of cybernetically augmented fans and corporate sponsors, all cheering on their favorite teams and reveling in the spectacle of violence and athleticism.

Characters and Teams

Speedball 2 HD features a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Players can choose from various teams, each representing a different corporation or faction within the dystopian world.

Some of the most notable teams include:

  • Alphatron: A corporate-sponsored team known for their ruthlessness and technological enhancements.
  • Phoenix: A rebel team fighting against corporate oppression, relying on speed and agility to overcome their opponents.
  • Renegades: A group of outcasts and misfits who play for the sheer thrill of the game.
  • Steelers: A heavily armored team that specializes in physical intimidation and brutal defense.

Game Modes and Features

Speedball 2 HD offers a variety of game modes and features to keep players engaged and entertained:

  • Campaign Mode: A single-player story mode that follows the journey of a rising Speedball team as they battle their way to the championship.
  • Exhibition Mode: A quick play mode where players can customize matches and choose from different teams and arenas.
  • Online Multiplayer: Compete against other players from around the world in intense online matches.
  • Character Customization: Players can create and customize their own Speedball team, choosing from a variety of characters, abilities, and uniforms.
  • Power-Ups: Collect power-ups during matches to gain temporary advantages, such as increased speed, strength, or special abilities.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Speedball 2 HD received critical acclaim upon release, with many reviewers praising its fast-paced gameplay, innovative mechanics, and faithful homage to the original game. It was nominated for several awards, including “Best Sports Game” at the Golden Joystick Awards.

The game has since become a cult classic among fans of the original Speedball and those who appreciate a unique and adrenaline-pumping sports experience. It has also inspired a passionate modding community that has created new teams, arenas, and gameplay modifications to extend the game’s longevity.

Conclusion

Speedball 2 HD is a masterful blend of futuristic sports and cyberpunk aesthetics that delivers an exhilarating and unforgettable gaming experience. Its fast-paced, brutal gameplay, diverse characters, and dystopian setting create a unique and immersive world that keeps players coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of the original Speedball or simply looking for a high-octane sports game with a twist, Speedball 2 HD is a must-play.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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The Curse of Sherwood (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

The Curse of Sherwood: A Nostalgic Journey into the Haunted Forest

Released in 1987, The Curse of Sherwood is an arcade game that takes players on a thrilling adventure through the legendary Sherwood Forest. Developed by Capcom, the game combines elements of action, platforming, and puzzle-solving, creating a captivating experience for players of all ages.

Gameplay Overview

The Curse of Sherwood follows the story of Friar Tuck, who has been tasked with ridding Sherwood Forest of a curse that has transformed its inhabitants into mischievous spirits. Players control Friar Tuck as he navigates through various levels, battling ghosts, solving puzzles, and collecting items to progress.

The game features a variety of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Platforming: Friar Tuck must jump, climb, and swing his way through the forest, avoiding obstacles and traps.
  • Action: Friar Tuck is equipped with a holy water gun that he uses to defeat ghosts. Different types of ghosts have different weaknesses, so players must use strategy to defeat them effectively.
  • Puzzle-solving: The game includes a number of puzzles that must be solved in order to progress. These puzzles range from simple environmental puzzles to more complex logic puzzles.

Key Features

  • Charming pixel art graphics: The game’s visuals are a delightful blend of vibrant colors and detailed sprites, creating a whimsical and immersive atmosphere.
  • Catchy soundtrack: The game’s soundtrack features a variety of upbeat and memorable tunes that perfectly complement the gameplay.
  • Varied level design: The game’s levels are all unique and offer a variety of challenges, from haunted forests to spooky caves and even a ghost ship.
  • Engaging boss battles: Each level culminates in a challenging boss battle against a unique and powerful ghost.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, The Curse of Sherwood was met with positive reviews from critics. The game’s charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and clever puzzles were all praised. The game was also a commercial success, becoming one of Capcom’s best-selling arcade games of the era.

Over the years, The Curse of Sherwood has become a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the NES, Commodore 64, and Sega Genesis. It has also been included in several retro game compilations.

Personal Impressions

As a retro gaming enthusiast, I have fond memories of playing The Curse of Sherwood in arcades as a child. The game’s charming graphics, catchy soundtrack, and challenging gameplay left a lasting impression on me.

I recently had the opportunity to revisit the game on a modern platform, and I was delighted to find that it still holds up today. The gameplay is as fun and engaging as ever, and the graphics and music still have a lot of charm.

Overall, I highly recommend The Curse of Sherwood to anyone who enjoys classic arcade games, platformers, or puzzle-solving games. It’s a timeless classic that will provide hours of entertainment.

Tips for Playing

  • Use the holy water gun effectively. Different types of ghosts have different weaknesses, so experiment to find the most effective way to defeat them.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. The game’s levels are filled with hidden items and secrets.
  • Pay attention to the environment. The game’s puzzles often require you to interact with the environment in some way.
  • Don’t give up! The game can be challenging at times, but it’s always fair. If you’re stuck, take a break and come back to it later.

Conclusion

The Curse of Sherwood is a classic arcade game that has stood the test of time. With its charming graphics, catchy soundtrack, and engaging gameplay, the game is sure to entertain players of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the genre, I highly recommend giving The Curse of Sherwood a try.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Bandits at Zero (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 3 minutes read

Summary

Bandits at Zero (1986)

Bandits at Zero is a vertically scrolling shooter arcade game developed and published by Namco in 1986. The player controls a spaceship that must уничтожить waves of enemy ships and avoid obstacles. The game is notable for its fast-paced gameplay, simple graphics, and catchy music.

Gameplay

The player controls a spaceship that is constantly moving upwards. The player can move the spaceship left and right, and can fire shots in eight directions. The player must уничтожить waves of enemy ships that появляются from the top of the screen. The player can also collect power-ups that will give them temporary advantages, such as increased firepower or speed.

The game is divided into five stages, each with its own unique set of enemies and obstacles. The player must defeat the boss at the end of each stage in order to progress to the next stage.

Development

Bandits at Zero was developed by Namco’s arcade division, which was led by Toru Iwatani, the creator of Pac-Man. The game was designed to be a fast-paced and challenging shooter that would appeal to a wide range of players. The game’s graphics were designed by Kazuyoshi Nakao, who also worked on Pac-Man.

Release

Bandits at Zero was released in arcades in Japan in 1986. The game was a commercial success, and was ported to a number of home computers and consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum.

Reception

Bandits at Zero was well-received by critics and players alike. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, simple graphics, and catchy music. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Bandits at Zero is considered to be one of the classic arcade shooters of the 1980s. The game’s simple gameplay and catchy music have made it a favorite of retro gamers. The game has also been cited as an influence on a number of later shooters, including the Gradius series and R-Type.

Trivia

  • The game’s title is a reference to the fact that the player’s spaceship is always moving upwards, towards the zero point at the top of the screen.
  • The game’s music was composed by Nobuyuki Ohnogi, who also composed the music for Pac-Man.
  • The game was originally going to be called “Star Force”, but the name was changed to Bandits at Zero to avoid confusion with Konami’s Star Soldier series.

Conclusion

Bandits at Zero is a classic arcade shooter that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s simple gameplay, catchy music, and challenging difficulty make it a great choice for a quick and fun gaming session.

Review Score

7/10

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Richard & Alice (2013)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Richard & Alice: A Riveting Tale of Family, Desperation, and the Unforgiving Elements

Released in 2013, Richard & Alice is an indie adventure game that weaves a captivating tale of family, desperation, and the raw power of nature. Set against the backdrop of a raging storm, players embark on an emotional journey alongside Richard, a father driven by both love and desperation, and Alice, his young daughter who holds a mysterious connection to the storm.

A Family Torn Apart by the Fury of Nature

The game opens with Richard and Alice seeking shelter from a relentless storm. As the tempest rages around them, a tragic event tears the family apart. Richard finds himself alone, desperately searching for his lost daughter amidst the howling winds and torrential rain.

Driven by an unyielding determination, Richard ventures into the unforgiving wilderness, guided only by the faint hope of finding Alice alive. Along his perilous path, he encounters surreal landscapes, solves enigmatic puzzles, and uncovers fragments of a haunting past that intertwine with the present crisis.

The Unbreakable Bond Between Father and Daughter

As Richard delves deeper into the storm-ravaged world, he discovers that Alice possesses a mysterious connection to the elements. She can manipulate the weather, summoning rain and wind to aid her father’s search. This extraordinary ability becomes both a source of hope and a constant reminder of the storm’s unpredictable nature.

The bond between Richard and Alice forms the emotional core of the game. Through flashbacks and poignant dialogue, players witness the deep love and unwavering support that unites them. Richard’s desperation to find his daughter fuels his every action, while Alice’s resilience and resourcefulness provide a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

A Haunting and Atmospheric Adventure

Richard & Alice unfolds within a beautifully rendered world that captures the raw power and untamed beauty of nature. The storm serves as a constant companion, its fury reflected in the swirling winds, lashing rain, and towering trees that surround Richard on his quest.

The game’s soundtrack, composed by BAFTA-winning composer David Wise, perfectly complements the atmospheric visuals. The eerie, ambient melodies create a sense of unease and isolation, while the occasional bursts of frantic percussion mirror the urgency of Richard’s search.

Exploring Themes of Family, Desperation, and the Power of Nature

Beyond its captivating storyline and immersive gameplay, Richard & Alice delves into profound themes that resonate with players on a deeply personal level. The game explores the unbreakable bond between family members, the lengths parents will go to protect their children, and the desperate measures people may resort to in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The game also serves as a poignant reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. The storm that engulfs Richard and Alice becomes a metaphor for the challenges and obstacles that life throws our way. It is through our resilience, adaptability, and the support of loved ones that we can weather even the most tumultuous storms.

A Memorable and Emotionally Resonant Experience

Richard & Alice is a masterfully crafted adventure game that weaves a haunting and emotionally resonant tale. With its compelling characters, immersive atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes, the game invites players to embark on a journey of love, desperation, and the unyielding power of nature.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or simply seeking a captivating and emotionally immersive experience, Richard & Alice is a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Its unforgettable characters, haunting atmosphere, and profound themes make it a truly exceptional and memorable work of interactive storytelling.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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