Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE
- Developers: Psygnosis
- Publishers: Psygnosis
Arena (1986): The Classic Sports Simulation Game
Arena is a classic sports simulation game released in 1986 for the Commodore 64, Amiga, and Atari ST. The game was developed by British company Gremlin Graphics and published by US Gold. Arena is notable for its realistic graphics, smooth animation, and multiplayer support.
The game features six track and field events: the 100 meters, pole vault, high jump, long jump, shot put, and javelin. Players can compete against the computer or against human opponents in multiplayer mode.
Arena was a critical and commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide. The game was praised for its realism, graphics, and multiplayer support. Arena is considered to be one of the best sports simulation games of all time.
Gameplay
Arena is a track and field simulation game in which players compete in six different events: the 100 meters, pole vault, high jump, long jump, shot put, and javelin. Players can choose to compete against the computer or against human opponents in multiplayer mode.
The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. Players use the joystick to control their athlete’s movements and the fire button to perform actions such as jumping, throwing, and vaulting.
The game’s physics engine is very realistic, and players must take into account factors such as wind speed and direction when competing in the events. The game also features a variety of different track and field surfaces, each with its own unique properties.
Graphics and Sound
Arena’s graphics are some of the best available on the Commodore 64, Amiga, and Atari ST. The game’s characters are smoothly animated and the backgrounds are detailed and realistic. The game also features a variety of different weather effects, such as rain, snow, and fog.
The game’s sound is also very good. The crowd noise is realistic and the sound effects are well-done. The game’s music is catchy and upbeat, and it helps to create a sense of excitement and competition.
Multiplayer Support
Arena is one of the first sports simulation games to feature multiplayer support. Players can compete against each other in all six events, and the game supports up to four players.
The multiplayer mode is a lot of fun, and it adds a great deal of replayability to the game. Players can compete against their friends or family members, or they can join online multiplayer games and compete against players from all over the world.
Reception
Arena was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its realism, graphics, and multiplayer support. Arena was also a popular choice for reviewers, and it received high scores from many different publications.
The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide. Arena is considered to be one of the best sports simulation games of all time, and it is still enjoyed by many gamers today.
Legacy
Arena has had a lasting impact on the sports simulation genre. The game’s realistic graphics and smooth animation set a new standard for sports games, and its multiplayer support helped to popularize the genre.
Arena has also been cited as an inspiration for many other sports simulation games, including the popular Track & Field series. The game’s legacy is still felt today, and it continues to be enjoyed by many gamers around the world.
Conclusion
Arena is a classic sports simulation game that offers humor, competition, and multiplayer rivalry. With unsurpassed graphics and realistic animation, you can become an athlete and compete with your friends in six fiercely competitive events.
If you’re a fan of sports simulation games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Arena. The game is still a lot of fun to play today, and it’s a great way to experience the history of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
