Developer: Magnetic Fields

Super Cars II (1991)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Super Cars II (1991): A Racing Masterpiece

Released in 1991 by Magnetic Fields, Super Cars II is a futuristic racing game that pushed the limits of the Amiga hardware. With its blazing-fast speeds, stunning graphics, and innovative track designs, Super Cars II quickly became a classic among Amiga enthusiasts.

Gameplay

Super Cars II is a top-down racing game in which players control a futuristic race car and compete against seven other AI opponents. The game features a variety of tracks, each with its own unique challenges. Some tracks are set in urban environments, while others take place in more exotic locations, such as a space station or a Martian landscape.

Players must use their driving skills to navigate the tracks and avoid crashing into walls or other obstacles. They can also collect power-ups that give them a temporary advantage, such as increased speed or invincibility.

Super Cars II features a variety of different game modes, including a single-race mode, a championship mode, and a time trial mode. The championship mode is the most challenging, as it requires players to win multiple races in a row in order to progress.

Graphics and Sound

Super Cars II features some of the most impressive graphics and sound on the Amiga. The cars are beautifully detailed and the tracks are full of vibrant colors and eye-catching details. The game also features a pumping soundtrack that adds to the excitement of the racing.

Legacy

Super Cars II was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered one of the best racing games ever made on the Amiga. The game has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative track designs.

Super Cars II has also been influential in the development of other racing games. The game’s track designs and power-up system have been used in many subsequent racing games, and its futuristic setting has inspired many other games in the genre.

Conclusion

Super Cars II is a classic racing game that still holds up today. With its fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative track designs, it is a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you are a long-time Amiga enthusiast or a newcomer to the platform, Super Cars II is a game that you will not want to miss.

Additional Information

  • Super Cars II was developed by Magnetic Fields, a British video game development company.
  • The game was released on the Amiga in Europe in 1991 and in North America in 1992.
  • Super Cars II was the sequel to the 1990 game Super Cars.
  • The game was ported to the PC in 1992 under the title Super Cars International.
  • Super Cars II was followed by two sequels, Super Cars III and Super Aguri F1 2006.

Review Scores

  • Amiga Format: 93%
  • CU Amiga: 92%
  • The One: 90%
  • Amiga Power: 89%
  • ACE: 88%

Awards

  • Amiga Format Game of the Year (1991)
  • CU Amiga Game of the Year (1991)
  • The One Game of the Year (1991)

Review Score

8/10

Art

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Kid Chaos (1994)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Kid Chaos: A Nostalgic Trip Through a Side-Scrolling Masterpiece

Released in 1994 for the Amiga and Amiga CD32, Kid Chaos (also known as Kid Vicious) is a side-scrolling platform video game that quickly gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Developed by Magnetic Fields and published by Ocean Software, Kid Chaos is a vibrant and challenging platformer that takes players on a wild adventure through a variety of colorful and imaginative levels.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Platforming Precision

Kid Chaos follows the titular character, a young boy with a mischievous grin and a knack for getting into trouble. Players control Kid Chaos as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through a series of increasingly difficult levels, each filled with a variety of enemies, traps, and puzzles.

The gameplay is tight and responsive, with Kid Chaos moving with a fluidity and grace that makes traversing the levels a joy. The game’s physics are well-tuned, allowing for precise platforming and acrobatic maneuvers. Kid Chaos can perform a variety of moves, including running, jumping, climbing, and shooting, and he can also use a variety of weapons and power-ups to help him on his quest.

Levels: A Kaleidoscope of Creativity

One of the things that makes Kid Chaos so special is its incredible level design. Each level is a unique and imaginative creation, filled with vibrant colors, detailed backgrounds, and clever puzzles. From the lush green forests of the first level to the fiery depths of the final stage, Kid Chaos takes players on a visual journey that is as stunning as it is challenging.

The levels are also filled with a variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and attack patterns. Kid Chaos must use his wits and agility to overcome these enemies, as well as navigate the treacherous traps and obstacles that litter his path.

Graphics and Sound: A Retro Masterpiece

For its time, Kid Chaos was a graphical powerhouse. The game’s colorful sprites and detailed backgrounds are a testament to the skill of the developers, and the game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the game’s whimsical and adventurous spirit.

The Amiga CD32 version of the game featured even more impressive graphics and sound, thanks to the CD-ROM format’s increased storage capacity. The CD32 version also included a number of exclusive levels and features, making it the definitive version of the game for many fans.

Legacy: A Cult Classic Remembered

Despite its critical and commercial success, Kid Chaos never quite achieved the mainstream popularity of some of its contemporaries. However, the game has remained a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts, who praise its tight gameplay, imaginative level design, and charming visuals.

In recent years, Kid Chaos has been re-released on a number of platforms, including the PlayStation Network and Steam, allowing a new generation of gamers to experience this classic platformer. The game has also been featured in a number of retro gaming compilations, further cementing its status as a beloved classic.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treasure

Kid Chaos is a timeless treasure that deserves to be remembered as one of the best platformers of its era. With its tight gameplay, imaginative level design, and charming visuals, Kid Chaos is a game that will appeal to gamers of all ages. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Kid Chaos is a must-play experience that will provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

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Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge (1992)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge (1992)

Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge is a racing simulation video game developed and published by Gremlin Graphics Software for the Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS in 1992. It is the third game in the Lotus series of racing games, and was preceded by Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge (1990) and Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 (1991).

Lotus III combines the gameplay elements of its predecessors, allowing players to choose between racing opponents in the Lotus Turbo Challenge mode or competing against the clock in the arcade-like Lotus 2 mode. The two-player option is retained from Lotus Turbo Challenge 2, and the music selection feature returns, with a soundtrack composed by Patrick Phelan.

One of the most significant additions to Lotus III is the inclusion of a third car, the Lotus M200. This concept car was designed by Lotus in 1990, and features a number of advanced aerodynamic features. Players can choose to race with the M200, the Lotus Esprit Turbo SE, or the Lotus Turbo Esprit from Lotus Turbo Challenge 2.

Lotus III also features a number of new tracks, including the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, England, and the Monza circuit in Italy. The game’s graphics have also been updated, with more detailed scenery and cars.

Gameplay

Lotus III’s gameplay is similar to that of its predecessors. Players control a Formula One car and must race against opponents or the clock. The game features a variety of tracks, each with its own unique challenges. Players must use their driving skills to navigate the tracks and avoid crashing.

Lotus III introduces a number of new features to the series, including the ability to choose between three different cars, each with its own unique handling characteristics. The game also features a new damage model, which can affect the performance of the player’s car if they crash.

Reception

Lotus III was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its realistic graphics, challenging gameplay, and excellent music. Lotus III was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Lotus III is considered to be one of the best racing games of all time. The game is still played by many fans today, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Legacy

Lotus III has had a lasting impact on the racing game genre. The game’s realistic graphics and challenging gameplay set a new standard for racing games. Lotus III also helped to popularize the use of licensed cars and tracks in racing games.

The Lotus series of racing games continues to be popular today. The latest game in the series, Lotus Evora GT4 Concept, was released in 2019.

Conclusion

Lotus III: The Ultimate Challenge is a classic racing game that combines realistic graphics, challenging gameplay, and excellent music. The game is still played by many fans today, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. Lotus III is a must-play for fans of racing games and a great example of the genre at its best.

Additional Information

  • Lotus III was the first game in the series to be released on the MS-DOS platform.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Patrick Phelan, who also composed the soundtracks for Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 and Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge.
  • Lotus III was followed by Lotus IV: The Ultimate Challenge 2 in 1993.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Lotus Turbo Challenge 2: Arcade-Style Racing with Iconic Cars

Released in 1991, Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 (LTC2) is a thrilling arcade-style racing game that shifted the focus of the Lotus series towards more fast-paced and accessible gameplay. Unlike its predecessor, LTC2 dropped the fuel limit and difficulty levels, and replaced lap-based levels with course-based time trials, similar to arcade classics like Out Run.

Gameplay

The objective of LTC2 is simple: complete each course within a specified time limit to qualify for the next one. The game features two playable cars: the Lotus Elan SE on odd levels and the Lotus Esprit Turbo SE on even levels.

The single-player mode takes up the entire game screen, unlike the original game which only used half the screen. Opponent cars now appear in a variety of colors, adding visual variety to the races. However, music is absent from racing altogether, leaving only the roar of the car’s engine to accompany the player.

Arcade-Inspired Design

LTC2’s arcade-inspired design is evident in its fast-paced gameplay, vibrant graphics, and catchy sound effects. The time-based challenges add a sense of urgency to the races, encouraging players to push their cars to the limit.

The game’s courses are varied and challenging, featuring winding mountain roads, city streets, and coastal highways. Each course is filled with obstacles and hazards, such as traffic, roadblocks, and slippery surfaces, which require quick reflexes and skillful driving to overcome.

Iconic Cars

LTC2 features two iconic Lotus sports cars: the Lotus Elan SE and the Lotus Esprit Turbo SE. The Elan SE is a lightweight and agile roadster, while the Esprit Turbo SE is a more powerful and aerodynamic grand tourer. Both cars handle differently, giving players a choice between speed and maneuverability.

The cars are rendered in detail, with accurate bodywork and interiors. The game also features realistic car physics, making the driving experience both challenging and rewarding.

Legacy

Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 was a critical and commercial success, praised for its fast-paced gameplay, impressive graphics, and iconic cars. It helped to popularize the Lotus brand among racing game enthusiasts and cemented the series’ reputation for delivering high-quality driving experiences.

LTC2’s arcade-style gameplay and time-based challenges have influenced numerous subsequent racing games, including the popular Need for Speed series. The game remains a beloved classic among fans of arcade racing and Lotus sports cars.

Conclusion

Lotus Turbo Challenge 2 is an exhilarating arcade-style racing game that combines fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and iconic cars. Its time-based challenges, varied courses, and realistic car physics provide a thrilling and rewarding driving experience. Whether you’re a fan of racing games, Lotus sports cars, or arcade classics, LTC2 is a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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Super Cars (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Super Cars (1990): A Top-Down Racing Classic

Super Cars is a top-down racing game released in 1990 by Gremlin Interactive. It’s a classic example of the genre, with simple but addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and a variety of tracks to race on.

Gameplay

The goal of Super Cars is to finish in the top three in each race in order to progress. There are four difficulty levels, each with nine tracks. The tracks can be raced in any order, but the last track you race is made harder than usual.

In the races, you win money which can be spent on temporary handling and power upgrades, plus armor plating and front/rear shooting missiles that can knock out other racers. The player must finish in the top three of each race to progress – initially there are four computer opponents, but more are added as you progress through the game.

Cars and Upgrades

The player can choose from a variety of cars, each with different stats. The cars can be upgraded throughout the game via the shop section. The player is given an initial price, but also a number of options of things to say to the salesman – with the right combination, the price will drop.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Super Cars are colorful and well-detailed for the time. The tracks are varied and interesting, and the cars are well-animated. The sound effects are simple but effective, and the music is catchy and upbeat.

Legacy

Super Cars was a critical and commercial success, and it’s still considered one of the best top-down racing games ever made. It’s been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it’s still available to purchase and play today.

Review

Super Cars is a classic top-down racing game that’s still a lot of fun to play today. It’s got great graphics, challenging tracks, and plenty of replayability. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Super Cars.

Score: 8/10

Tips for Playing Super Cars

  • Learn the tracks. The best way to improve your lap times is to learn the tracks inside and out. Pay attention to the layout of each track and the location of the obstacles.
  • Use your upgrades wisely. The upgrades you can purchase in the shop can give you a significant advantage in the races. Use them wisely to improve your car’s handling, power, and durability.
  • Don’t be afraid to use your weapons. The missiles and armor plating you can purchase can be very effective in taking out your opponents. Use them strategically to give yourself an edge in the races.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Super Cars, the better you’ll become at it. So practice as much as you can and you’ll soon be able to beat the game on the hardest difficulty level.

Conclusion

Super Cars is a classic top-down racing game that’s still a lot of fun to play today. It’s got great graphics, challenging tracks, and plenty of replayability. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Super Cars.

Review Score

8/10

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Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge: The Ultimate Arcade Racing Experience

Released in 1990, Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge is a classic arcade racing game that still holds up today. Developed by Gremlin Graphics and published by Atari Games, the game was ported to a variety of home computers and consoles, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and Sega Genesis.

Gameplay

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge is a Formula One-style racing game in which players take control of a Lotus Esprit Turbo S1 and compete in a series of races on tracks around the world. The game features a total of 32 tracks, which are split into three difficulty levels: Easy, Medium, and Hard.

Each race consists of three laps, and players must finish in the top 10 (or top 8 on the 8-bit versions) in order to progress to the next race. The higher you finish in one race, the lower down the grid you start for the next race.

The opposition drivers have pun names based on the F1 drivers of the day, such as Ricardo Pastry, Crashhard Banger, and Nigel Mansell. They are all very aggressive and will not hesitate to bump you off the track if they get the chance.

Graphics and Sound

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge features some of the best graphics and sound of any arcade racing game of its era. The tracks are all very detailed and varied, and the cars are well-animated. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that helps to create a sense of excitement and speed.

Controls

The controls in Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge are very responsive and easy to learn. The game can be played with either a joystick or a steering wheel.

Multiplayer

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge features a simultaneous two-player mode, which allows two players to race against each other on the same screen. This is a great way to add some extra excitement to the game.

Reception

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its graphics, sound, gameplay, and multiplayer mode. The game was also a hit in arcades, where it was one of the most popular racing games of its time.

Legacy

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge is still considered to be one of the best arcade racing games ever made. It has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game also spawned two sequels, Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge 2 (1991) and Lotus Esprit World Series (1993).

Tips for Playing Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge

Here are a few tips for playing Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge:

  • Learn the tracks. The tracks in Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge are all very different, so it is important to learn the layout of each track before you start racing.
  • Be aggressive. The opposition drivers are very aggressive, so you need to be prepared to bump them off the track if necessary.
  • Don’t be afraid to use the brakes. The brakes in Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge are very effective, so don’t be afraid to use them to slow down for corners.
  • Make pit stops. In most races, you will need to make a pit stop for fuel in order to reach the finish.
  • Have fun! Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge is a great game, so relax and have some fun while you’re playing it.

Conclusion

Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge is a classic arcade racing game that still holds up today. It is a must-play for fans of racing games and retro gaming.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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