Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Platform
- Platforms: Android, DOS, Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: id Software
- Publishers: Lone Wolf Technology, Nightdive Studios, Softdisk Publishing, Super Fighter Team
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams: A Journey Through a Whimsical and Challenging World
Released in 1991, Commander Keen in Keen Dreams is a side-scrolling platformer game developed by id Software and published by Apogee Software. It is the second installment in the Commander Keen series, and it follows the adventures of the titular 8-year-old genius as he travels to the planet Vorticon VI in search of his missing parents.
Gameplay
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams is a classic platformer in the vein of Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. Players control Keen as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through a variety of levels, collecting power-ups and defeating enemies.
The game’s levels are set in a whimsical world of giant vegetables, where Keen must battle his way through broccoli forests, asparagus fields, and potato farms. Enemies include vicious broccoli beasts, savage asparagus warriors, and a bushel of other leafy green nasties.
At the end of each level, Keen must face off against a boss, such as the Tomato Monster, the Carrot King, or the mighty King Boobus Tuber. These bosses are challenging, but with the right strategy and a bit of luck, Keen can defeat them and progress further into the game.
Graphics and Sound
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams features colorful and detailed graphics for its time. The game’s world is full of vibrant colors and whimsical characters, and the animation is smooth and fluid.
The game’s sound is also top-notch. The music is catchy and upbeat, and the sound effects are well-crafted and add to the game’s atmosphere.
Story
The story of Commander Keen in Keen Dreams is simple but effective. Keen is on a mission to find his missing parents, and he must travel through a variety of dangerous worlds to do so. Along the way, he meets a cast of colorful characters, including the wise-cracking Mortimer McMire and the beautiful Princess Lana.
The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes, which are well-written and humorous. The cutscenes help to flesh out the characters and give the game a sense of purpose.
Legacy
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish id Software as a major player in the video game industry. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music.
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Genesis, and mobile devices. The game is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains one of the most iconic platformers of all time.
Conclusion
Commander Keen in Keen Dreams is a classic platformer that has stood the test of time. The game’s innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Commander Keen in Keen Dreams is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
