Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons: A Co-op Classic

Released in 1988, Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons is a side-scrolling action game for the Commodore 64. It was developed by The Bitmap Brothers and published by Psygnosis. The game is notable for its innovative split-screen gameplay, which allows two players to cooperatively control the titular Captain Fizz and his sidekick, Dexter.

The story of Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons is set on the planet Icarus, which has been overrun by an alien race known as the Blaster-Trons. Captain Fizz and Dexter must team up to defeat the Blaster-Trons and restore peace to the planet.

The game is played across 22 levels, each of which is filled with enemies and hazards. Captain Fizz and Dexter must work together to overcome these challenges, using their unique abilities to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Captain Fizz is armed with a laser gun, which he can use to shoot enemies and destroy obstacles. He can also use his jetpack to fly short distances. Dexter is armed with a grappling hook, which he can use to swing across gaps and climb walls. He can also use his hacking skills to disable enemy machinery.

The two players must cooperate in order to progress through the game. They must coordinate their movements and attacks to overcome the challenges they face. For example, Captain Fizz can use his jetpack to fly over a gap, while Dexter uses his grappling hook to swing across it.

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and charming graphics. The game has since been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, and PC.

Gameplay

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons is a side-scrolling action game that can be played by one or two players. The game is played across 22 levels, each of which is filled with enemies and hazards.

The player controls Captain Fizz, who is armed with a laser gun and a jetpack. The player can also control Dexter, who is armed with a grappling hook and a hacking device.

The two players must cooperate in order to progress through the game. They must coordinate their movements and attacks to overcome the challenges they face. For example, Captain Fizz can use his jetpack to fly over a gap, while Dexter uses his grappling hook to swing across it.

The game features a variety of enemies, including Blaster-Trons, robots, and aliens. The players must use their weapons and abilities to defeat these enemies.

The game also features a number of puzzles that the players must solve in order to progress. For example, the players may need to find a key to open a door, or they may need to figure out how to disable a machine.

Graphics and Sound

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons features colorful and detailed graphics. The characters and enemies are well-animated, and the backgrounds are varied and interesting.

The game’s soundtrack is composed of upbeat and catchy tunes. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to create a sense of atmosphere.

Overall

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons is a classic co-op action game that is still a lot of fun to play today. The split-screen gameplay is innovative and the levels are challenging but fair. If you’re looking for a great co-op game to play with a friend, this is one you should definitely check out.

Legacy

Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons has been praised as one of the best co-op games ever made. It has been ported to a number of other platforms, and it has been included in several retro game compilations.

The game has also been cited as an influence on a number of other co-op games, including Super Mario Bros. 3, Gauntlet, and Trine.

Trivia

  • Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons was originally going to be called “Captain Fizz and the Space Pirates.”
  • The game’s protagonist, Captain Fizz, is based on the character of the same name from the comic strip “Captain Fizz.”
  • The game’s music was composed by David Whittaker, who also composed the music for the classic game Shadow of the Beast.
  • Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons was one of the first games to feature a split-screen multiplayer mode.

Tips for Playing

  • Communicate with your partner. It is important to coordinate your movements and attacks in order to progress through the game.
  • Use your weapons and abilities wisely. Captain Fizz’s laser gun is effective against enemies, while Dexter’s grappling hook can be used to overcome obstacles.
  • Be careful not to get separated from your partner. If one of you dies, the other will have to start the level over.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are multiple ways to solve each puzzle in the game.
  • Have fun! Captain Fizz Meets the Blaster-Trons is a challenging but rewarding game.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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