Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Arcade, Sport
- Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amiga, Atari ST/STE, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine
- Developers: Reflections Interactive
- Publishers: Coconuts Japan, Psyclapse, Superior Software Ltd.
Ballistix (1989): A Futuristic Sports Classic
Ballistix is a futuristic sports game developed by Martin Edmondson and published by Psyclapse in 1989. It was released on the Amiga and Atari ST, and was later ported to a number of other home computers and the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 console.
The game is set in a future where a new sport called Ballistix has become popular. Ballistix is a fast-paced and action-packed game that combines elements of air hockey, pinball, and billiards.
The goal of the game is to direct a puck into your opponent’s goal by shooting small balls at it. You control a paddle that can be moved around the edge of the playfield. You can use the paddle to hit the puck directly, or you can bounce the balls off the walls and other objects to indirecty hit the puck.
Ballistix is a challenging and rewarding game that requires both skill and strategy. It is a great game for both single-player and multiplayer gaming.
Gameplay
Ballistix is played on a rectangular playfield that is surrounded by walls. The puck is placed in the center of the playfield, and each player controls a paddle that can be moved around the edge of the playfield.
The goal of the game is to direct the puck into your opponent’s goal. You can do this by hitting the puck directly with your paddle, or you can bounce the balls off the walls and other objects to indirecty hit the puck.
The game is played in real-time, and the puck moves very quickly. This makes it difficult to control the puck, and it can be easy to lose track of it. However, the game also features a slow-motion mode that can be used to help you line up your shots.
Ballistix can be played with either one or two players. In single-player mode, you play against a computer opponent. In multiplayer mode, you can play against a friend or family member.
Power-ups
There are a number of power-ups that can be collected during the game. These power-ups can give you a variety of advantages, such as increased speed, strength, or accuracy.
The power-ups are randomly placed on the playfield, and they disappear after a short period of time. This means that you need to be quick to collect them.
Reception
Ballistix was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging difficulty, and addictive multiplayer mode. Ballistix was also one of the first games to feature a slow-motion mode, which was a major innovation at the time.
Ballistix has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today. It is considered to be one of the best futuristic sports games ever made.
Legacy
Ballistix has had a significant impact on the video game industry. It is one of the first games to combine elements of air hockey, pinball, and billiards. It is also one of the first games to feature a slow-motion mode.
Ballistix has been cited as an inspiration for a number of other games, including the popular Rocket League.
Conclusion
Ballistix is a classic futuristic sports game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that requires both skill and strategy. If you are a fan of retro gaming or futuristic sports games, then you should definitely check out Ballistix.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
