Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: BBC Microcomputer System
By Fair Means or Foul (1986) Review
By Fair Means or Foul is a text adventure game developed and published by Ocean Software in 1986 for the ZX Spectrum. It was written by Mike Singleton, who is best known for his work on the The Lords of Midnight series.
The game is set in London in the 1930s, and the player takes on the role of a private detective named Jack Armstrong. Armstrong is hired by a wealthy businessman to investigate the disappearance of his daughter, who has been kidnapped by a mysterious criminal gang.
The player must use their detective skills to investigate the crime, interview witnesses, and gather evidence. They must also use their wits to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.
By Fair Means or Foul is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique blend of mystery, adventure, and puzzle-solving. It is a classic example of the text adventure genre, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.
Gameplay
By Fair Means or Foul is a text adventure game, which means that the player interacts with the game world by typing commands. The game uses a parser to interpret the player’s commands, and it responds with a description of the game world and the player’s actions.
The player can explore the game world by moving between locations, examining objects, and talking to characters. They can also use their inventory to store items and use them to solve puzzles.
The game’s puzzles are challenging but fair, and they require the player to use their logic and problem-solving skills. For example, the player may need to find a way to open a locked door, or they may need to figure out how to get past a guard.
Setting
By Fair Means or Foul is set in London in the 1930s. This was a time of great social and economic change, and the game’s setting reflects this. The player will encounter a variety of characters from all walks of life, including gangsters, detectives, and socialites.
The game’s setting is also brought to life by its detailed and evocative descriptions. The player will feel like they are actually walking the streets of London in the 1930s.
Characters
The player takes on the role of Jack Armstrong, a private detective who is hired to investigate the disappearance of a wealthy businessman’s daughter. Armstrong is a skilled detective with a strong sense of justice. He is also a bit of a rogue, and he is not afraid to bend the rules to get the job done.
The player will also encounter a variety of other characters during the game, including witnesses, suspects, and allies. These characters are all well-developed and believable, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.
Story
The story of By Fair Means or Foul is well-written and engaging. The player is quickly drawn into the mystery of the kidnapped girl, and they will be eager to find out what happened to her.
The story is full of twists and turns, and the player will never be quite sure what is going to happen next. This keeps the player on the edge of their seat from beginning to end.
Graphics and Sound
By Fair Means or Foul is a text adventure game, so it does not have any graphics or sound. However, the game’s detailed descriptions and evocative writing create a vivid and immersive world for the player.
Overall
By Fair Means or Foul is a classic text adventure game that offers a unique blend of mystery, adventure, and puzzle-solving. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will appeal to fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Pros
- Engaging story
- Well-developed characters
- Challenging puzzles
- Evocative setting
Cons
- No graphics or sound
- Can be difficult at times
Review Score
7/10
