Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX
- Developers: Applied Systems Engineering Inc.
- Publishers: U.S. Gold
Time Tunnel: A Journey Through the Ages
Introduction
Time Tunnel is a computer game for the Commodore 64 released in 1985. The game is a platformer in which the player controls a character who must teleport between different ages to solve puzzles, find “The Seven Scriptures”, and become King of the Gnomes.
Gameplay
The game is played from a side-scrolling perspective. The player controls the main character, who can walk, jump, and teleport. The player must use these abilities to navigate the game’s levels, which are set in different time periods. Each level contains a number of puzzles that must be solved in order to progress. The puzzles often involve using the player’s teleportation ability to reach different areas of the level.
In addition to the puzzles, the player must also collect “The Seven Scriptures”. These scriptures are hidden throughout the game’s levels. Once the player has collected all seven scriptures, they can use them to become King of the Gnomes.
Development
Time Tunnel was developed by David Whittaker and published by Mastertronic. The game was inspired by the television series of the same name. Whittaker began working on the game in 1984, and it was released in 1985.
Release
Time Tunnel was released in 1985 for the Commodore 64. The game was a critical and commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging puzzles, and detailed graphics.
Legacy
Time Tunnel is considered to be one of the best Commodore 64 games of all time. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging puzzles, and detailed graphics. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.
Critical reception
Time Tunnel received positive reviews from critics. Zzap!64 magazine gave the game a score of 93%, praising its “addictive” gameplay, “challenging” puzzles, and “impressive” graphics. Commodore User magazine gave the game a score of 8/10, calling it “a well-crafted and enjoyable game”.
Cultural impact
Time Tunnel has had a significant impact on popular culture. The game has been featured in a number of books and articles about the Commodore 64. It has also been referenced in a number of other video games, including Ready Player One.
Conclusion
Time Tunnel is a classic Commodore 64 game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s innovative gameplay, challenging puzzles, and detailed graphics make it a must-play for any fan of platformers.
Additional Information
- Time Tunnel was one of the first games to feature a time travel mechanic.
- The game’s music was composed by David Whittaker, who also composed the music for the television series of the same name.
- Time Tunnel was ported to a number of other platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.
- The game was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2008.
Tips
- Use your teleportation ability to reach different areas of the levels.
- Be patient and don’t give up on the puzzles.
- Collect all of “The Seven Scriptures” to become King of the Gnomes.
Review Score
7.5/10