Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Artic Computing Ltd.
Big Ben Strikes Again: A Retro Adventure Classic
Released in 1985 for the ZX Spectrum, Big Ben Strikes Again is an action-adventure game that combines puzzle-solving, exploration, and thrilling combat. Players take on the role of a secret agent tasked with preventing a terrorist plot to blow up Big Ben.
Gameplay
The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player character can move freely around the game world. The world is divided into a series of screens, each of which contains a variety of objects and enemies. The player must use their wits and agility to solve puzzles, avoid traps, and defeat enemies in order to progress through the game.
One of the unique features of Big Ben Strikes Again is its use of a “real-time” clock. The game world progresses in real time, and the player must be mindful of the time of day in order to solve certain puzzles and avoid detection by enemies. For example, some doors may only be open at certain times of day, and some enemies may only be active during the night.
The game also features a variety of weapons and items that the player can use to defeat enemies and solve puzzles. These include guns, bombs, keys, and grappling hooks. The player must carefully manage their inventory and use the right items at the right time in order to succeed.
Story
The story of Big Ben Strikes Again is set in London, England, in the year 1985. The player character is a secret agent who has been tasked with preventing a terrorist plot to blow up Big Ben. The terrorists have planted a bomb in the clock tower, and it is up to the player to stop them before it detonates.
The player must travel across London, infiltrating enemy hideouts, disarming traps, and gathering information in order to find the bomb and stop the terrorists. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of enemies, including armed guards, snipers, and even giant spiders.
Critical Reception
Big Ben Strikes Again was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging puzzles, and thrilling action sequences. The game was also praised for its detailed graphics and atmospheric sound effects.
Big Ben Strikes Again has been ranked among the best ZX Spectrum games of all time, and it is still enjoyed by retro gamers today. It is a challenging but rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience.
Legacy
Big Ben Strikes Again has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. It is credited with popularizing the use of real-time clocks in games, and its innovative gameplay has inspired many other games over the years.
The game has also been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX. It has also been released on modern platforms, such as the ZX Spectrum Next and the PC.
Conclusion
Big Ben Strikes Again is a classic ZX Spectrum game that combines action, adventure, and puzzle-solving. It is a challenging but rewarding game that will keep you entertained for hours. If you are a fan of retro games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Big Ben Strikes Again.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
