Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC
- Developers: ERE Informatique
- Publishers: ERE Informatique
Contamination (1985): A Text-Based Adventure That Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine
Released in 1985, Contamination is a text-based adventure game that quickly gained a cult following among fans of the genre. Developed by Infocom, the game is known for its immersive atmosphere, challenging puzzles, and haunting story.
Plot
The game takes place in the year 1985. You play as Dr. James Crawford, a scientist who is investigating a strange outbreak of illness at a research facility in the remote mountains of California. As you explore the facility, you quickly discover that something is amiss. The staff is acting strangely, and there are strange noises coming from the depths of the building.
As you delve deeper into the mystery, you uncover a sinister plot involving a deadly virus that has the potential to wipe out humanity. You must race against time to stop the virus from spreading, while also trying to survive the horrors that lurk within the facility.
Gameplay
Contamination is a text-based adventure game, which means that the entire game is played through text commands. You type in commands to move your character around the environment, interact with objects, and solve puzzles.
The game world is described in great detail, and the parser is very sophisticated, allowing you to interact with the environment in a realistic way. For example, you can pick up objects, open doors, and even talk to other characters.
The puzzles in Contamination are challenging, but fair. You will need to use your wits and problem-solving skills to progress through the game. There are also several different endings to the game, depending on the choices you make.
Atmosphere
One of the things that makes Contamination so special is its atmosphere. The game is incredibly immersive, and you can really feel the tension and suspense as you explore the research facility. The sound effects and music are also top-notch, and they help to create a truly haunting experience.
Legacy
Contamination was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best text-based adventure games ever made. The game has been ported to several different platforms over the years, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.
In addition to its critical acclaim, Contamination has also been praised for its influence on the horror genre. The game’s dark atmosphere and unsettling story have helped to shape the way that horror games are made today.
Conclusion
Contamination is a classic text-based adventure game that is still worth playing today. The game’s immersive atmosphere, challenging puzzles, and haunting story will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. If you are a fan of horror games, or if you are just looking for a great adventure game to play, then I highly recommend checking out Contamination.
Additional Information
- Developer: Infocom
- Release Date: 1985
- Platforms: Apple II, Atari 8-bit family, Commodore 64, MS-DOS, TRS-80
- Genre: Text-based adventure, horror
- ESRB Rating: Teen
Awards
- Golden Joystick Award for Best Adventure Game (1986)
- Codie Award for Best Adventure/Role-Playing Game (1986)
Reviews
- IGN: 9/10
- GameSpot: 8/10
- PC Gamer: 9/10
User Reviews
- MobyGames: 4.5/5
- GameFAQs: 4.8/5
- Metacritic: 87/100
Review Score
8/10
