Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: Apple II, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Mac, MSX
- Developers: Trillium
- Publishers: Idealogic S.A., Telarium
Amazon (1984): An Adventure into the Unknown
Introduction
In 1984, amidst the golden age of home computing, a groundbreaking adventure game emerged from the depths of the Amazon rainforest. Amazon, developed by Adventure International and published by Datasoft, transported players to a lush and perilous world, challenging them to uncover the fate of a lost National Satellite Resource Technology (NSRT) team. With its innovative gameplay, captivating storyline, and stunning graphics, Amazon quickly became a classic of the genre.
Gameplay
Amazon is a text-based adventure game played from a first-person perspective. The player controls an unnamed adventurer tasked with finding a missing NSRT team in the Amazon rainforest. The game world is vast and unforgiving, filled with dense vegetation, treacherous terrain, and exotic creatures.
To progress through the game, the player must explore the rainforest, interact with its inhabitants, and solve puzzles. The game features a parser that allows the player to type in natural language commands, such as “go north” or “talk to the monkey.” The parser is remarkably sophisticated for its time, allowing for a wide range of interactions with the game world.
Story
The story of Amazon unfolds as the player explores the rainforest and uncovers clues about the fate of the missing NSRT team. The player encounters a cast of memorable characters, including a wise old shaman, a mischievous monkey, and a deadly jaguar. As the player progresses, they learn more about the ancient secrets of the rainforest and the dangers that lurk within.
The game’s story is non-linear, allowing the player to choose their own path through the rainforest. The player’s choices affect the outcome of the game, leading to multiple possible endings.
Graphics
For a text-based adventure game, Amazon features surprisingly impressive graphics. The game uses a combination of ASCII art and color to create a vivid and immersive representation of the Amazon rainforest. The player can see lush vegetation, towering trees, and exotic creatures in all their glory.
Legacy
Amazon was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic of the adventure game genre. The game’s innovative gameplay, captivating storyline, and stunning graphics set a new standard for interactive fiction.
Amazon has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the Amazon rainforest and its exploration of environmental themes. The game has been credited with raising awareness of the importance of rainforest conservation.
In-Game Highlights
- Explore a vast and unforgiving Amazon rainforest: Navigate dense vegetation, treacherous terrain, and exotic creatures in search of the missing NSRT team.
- Interact with a cast of memorable characters: Meet a wise old shaman, a mischievous monkey, and a deadly jaguar, each with their own unique stories and motivations.
- Solve challenging puzzles: Use your wits and ingenuity to overcome obstacles, decipher ancient riddles, and uncover the secrets of the rainforest.
- Uncover the fate of the missing NSRT team: Piece together clues and follow the trail to discover what happened to the lost explorers.
- Experience multiple endings: Your choices throughout the game shape the outcome, leading to different endings and leaving a lasting impact on the rainforest.
Conclusion
Amazon (1984) is a timeless classic that continues to captivate gamers with its immersive gameplay, compelling story, and stunning graphics. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Amazon is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the unknown.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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