Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, Atari ST/STE, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Epyx, L.K. Avalon, Palace Software, Superior Software Ltd.
Barbarian: The Ultimate Warrior: A Retro Classic That Still Packs a Punch
Released in 1987 for the Commodore 64, Barbarian: The Ultimate Warrior is a side-scrolling fighting game that quickly gained a cult following among gamers. Developed and published by Palace Software, Barbarian was ported to numerous other platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, and ZX Spectrum. In the United States, the game was published by Epyx under the title Death Sword.
Barbarian is known for its innovative gameplay, which combines elements of fighting games and action-adventure titles. Players take control of a barbarian warrior who must battle his way through a series of increasingly difficult challenges in order to rescue a princess from the clutches of an evil wizard. The game’s two-player mode allows players to engage in head-to-head combat, adding to its replay value.
Gameplay
Barbarian’s gameplay is simple yet addictive. Players control their barbarian warrior with a joystick or keyboard, using a combination of buttons to attack, jump, and block. The game’s combat system is surprisingly deep, with a variety of attacks and combos that players can learn to master.
In the single-player campaign, players must guide their barbarian through a series of 10 levels, each with its own unique challenges. These challenges include fighting off waves of enemies, solving puzzles, and navigating treacherous traps. The game’s difficulty ramps up significantly as players progress, providing a stern test even for experienced gamers.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Barbarian’s graphics were impressive. The game’s character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are rich and colorful. The game’s animations are also fluid and realistic, adding to the overall immersion.
The game’s sound effects are equally impressive. The clash of swords, the roar of the crowd, and the screams of the dying all contribute to the game’s atmosphere. The game’s music is also memorable, with a catchy main theme that will stay with you long after you’ve stopped playing.
Legacy
Barbarian: The Ultimate Warrior was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, impressive graphics, and addictive two-player mode. Barbarian has been cited as an influence on numerous other fighting games, including Street Fighter II and Mortal Kombat.
The game’s popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a favorite among retro gamers. Barbarian has been re-released on numerous platforms, including the PlayStation Network, Xbox Live Arcade, and Nintendo Switch Online.
Conclusion
Barbarian: The Ultimate Warrior is a classic fighting game that still packs a punch today. Its innovative gameplay, impressive graphics, and addictive two-player mode make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the world of classic gaming, Barbarian is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
