Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga
- Developers: Art & Magic
- Publishers: Psygnosis
Agony (1992): A Magical Shoot ‘Em Up with a Dark Twist
Released in 1992 by Psygnosis, Agony is a horizontally-scrolling shoot ’em up with a unique blend of fantasy and horror elements. Players take on the role of a young magician’s apprentice who has been transformed into an owl in order to battle the forces of darkness.
Agony is set in a world where the forces of good and evil are locked in an eternal struggle. The player’s owl flies through six long levels, each with its own unique backdrop and enemies. The backgrounds are detailed and mellow, creating a less hectic feel than contemporaries such as Project X.
The enemies in Agony are varied and deadly, including piranhas, giant ants, and mosquitoes. The player must use a variety of weapons to defeat their foes, including lasers, bombs, and magic spells. Extra weapons and invincibility periods can be collected throughout the levels.
Agony is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The player has unlimited lives, and the levels are designed to be completed without memorization. The game also features a password system, allowing players to pick up where they left off.
Gameplay
Agony is a horizontally-scrolling shoot ’em up in the same vein as R-Type and Gradius. The player controls an owl that flies through six levels, shooting enemies and collecting power-ups. The owl can fire lasers, bombs, and magic spells.
The enemies in Agony are varied and deadly. Some enemies fly, while others crawl or swim. The player must use the appropriate weapon to defeat each type of enemy. For example, lasers are effective against flying enemies, while bombs are more effective against ground-based enemies.
The player can also collect power-ups to improve their owl’s abilities. These power-ups include extra weapons, invincibility periods, and speed boosts.
Graphics and Sound
Agony’s graphics are impressive for a 1992 game. The backgrounds are detailed and colorful, and the enemies are well-animated. The game also features some impressive special effects, such as parallax scrolling and background animation.
The sound in Agony is also top-notch. The music is catchy and atmospheric, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive.
Overall
Agony is a great shoot ’em up with beautiful graphics, challenging gameplay, and a unique blend of fantasy and horror elements. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Pros
- Beautiful graphics
- Challenging gameplay
- Unique blend of fantasy and horror elements
- Unlimited lives
- Password system
Cons
- Can be difficult for beginners
- Some of the levels are long and repetitive
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
