Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, BBC Microcomputer System, MSX, ZX Spectrum
Alien 8: A Futuristic Isometric Adventure
Released in 1985 by Ultimate Play the Game, Alien 8 is an isometric action-adventure game that was groundbreaking for its time. The game’s innovative graphics and immersive gameplay made it a critical and commercial success, and it remains a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts today.
Gameplay
Alien 8 puts players in control of the titular robot, whose mission is to ensure the survival of cryogenically frozen passengers aboard a starship during a perilous voyage. The game is played from an isometric perspective, which gives players a unique and detailed view of the game world.
Players must navigate Alien 8 through a variety of treacherous environments, including alien planets, space stations, and the interior of the starship itself. Along the way, they must solve puzzles, collect items, and battle enemies.
One of the most innovative aspects of Alien 8 is its use of the Filmation game engine, which allows for the creation of complex and detailed isometric environments. The game’s graphics are still impressive today, and they helped to set a new standard for the ZX Spectrum and other 8-bit computers.
Story
The story of Alien 8 is relatively simple, but it is effective in creating a sense of atmosphere and mystery. The game begins with Alien 8 being activated from stasis. He is informed that the starship’s crew has been killed, and that he is now responsible for the safety of the passengers.
Alien 8 must travel through the starship and repair its systems while also protecting the passengers from alien threats. Along the way, he learns more about the fate of the crew and the mysterious aliens that are attacking the ship.
Development
Alien 8 was developed by a small team led by brothers Chris and Tim Stamper. The game was inspired by the success of their previous game, Knight Lore, which was also an isometric adventure game.
The Stamper brothers wanted to create a game that would push the limits of the ZX Spectrum’s hardware. They developed the Filmation game engine, which allowed them to create more detailed and complex environments than had been possible in previous games.
Reception
Alien 8 was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Reviewers praised the game’s graphics, innovation, and immersive gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.
Alien 8 has been praised by critics and gamers alike as one of the best games of its era. It is considered to be a classic example of an isometric adventure game, and it continues to be enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.
Legacy
Alien 8 has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative graphics and gameplay helped to set a new standard for 8-bit computers, and it inspired a number of otherisometric adventure games.
Alien 8 is also notable for its use of the Filmation game engine. The Filmation engine was used in a number of other Ultimate Play the Game titles, including Knight Lore and Sabre Wulf. The engine allowed Ultimate to create some of the most visually impressive games of the 8-bit era.
Alien 8 remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts today. The game is available on a number of platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, BBC Micro, Amstrad CPC, and MSX. It is also available on modern platforms such as the PC, Mac, and iOS.
Conclusion
Alien 8 is a classic isometric adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative graphics and immersive gameplay make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding experience, then Alien 8 is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
9/10
