Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: BBC Microcomputer System, ZX Spectrum
Bug Eyes (1985): A Retro Platformer Classic
Released in 1985 for the Atari 2600, Bug Eyes is a simple but addictive platformer that has stood the test of time. The game’s objective is to guide Space Agent Zelda through a series of mazes, collecting keys and avoiding enemies in order to reach the exit.
Bug Eyes is notable for its unique visual style, which features large, blocky sprites and bright, eye-catching colors. The game’s mazes are also quite challenging, requiring players to carefully plan their moves in order to avoid falling into pits or being caught by enemies.
Despite its simplicity, Bug Eyes offers a surprisingly deep and engaging experience. The game’s levels are well-designed and offer a variety of challenges, and the controls are tight and responsive. Bug Eyes is also one of the few Atari 2600 games that features a female protagonist, which was quite珍しいat the time.
Gameplay
Bug Eyes is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Space Agent Zelda. Zelda must navigate through a series of mazes, collecting keys and avoiding enemies in order to reach the exit. The game’s mazes are filled with a variety of obstacles, including pits, spikes, and enemies. Zelda must use her jumping and shooting abilities to overcome these obstacles and reach the exit.
Zelda is armed with a laser gun that she can use to shoot enemies. She can also jump to avoid obstacles and reach higher platforms. Zelda must carefully manage her ammo, as she only has a limited number of shots.
The game’s mazes are increasingly difficult, and Zelda must use her skills and wits to overcome them. She must also be careful not to fall into pits or be caught by enemies, as this will cause her to lose a life.
Development
Bug Eyes was developed by Atari, Inc. and released in 1985 for the Atari 2600. The game was designed by Tod Frye and programmed by Bob Whitehead. Frye was inspired to create Bug Eyes after playing the arcade game Donkey Kong. He wanted to create a similar game for the Atari 2600, but with a unique twist.
Whitehead was responsible for programming Bug Eyes. He used a variety of techniques to create the game’s smooth scrolling and challenging gameplay. Whitehead also created the game’s unique visual style.
Reception
Bug Eyes was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, unique visual style, and catchy music. Bug Eyes was also one of the few Atari 2600 games that featured a female protagonist, which was quite珍しいat the time.
Bug Eyes has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Atari 5200, Atari 7800, and Atari Lynx. The game has also been released on a number of compilation discs and cartridges.
Legacy
Bug Eyes is considered to be one of the best platformers for the Atari 2600. The game’s challenging gameplay, unique visual style, and catchy music have made it a favorite among retro gamers. Bug Eyes has also been cited as an influence on a number of later platformers, including Super Mario Bros. and Metroid.
Conclusion
Bug Eyes is a classic platformer that still holds up today. The game’s challenging gameplay, unique visual style, and catchy music make it a must-play for any fan of retro gaming.
Review Score
7/10
