Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX
- Publishers: Martech
Crazy Comets (1985): A Fast and Frantic Space Shooter
Crazy Comets is a fast-paced and challenging space shooter game that was released for the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128 home computers in 1985. The game was developed by Melbourne House and published by Mastertronic.
In Crazy Comets, the player controls a spaceship that is tasked with defending the Earth from an invasion of comets. The comets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they move at different speeds and directions. The player must use their spaceship’s laser cannon to destroy the comets before they reach the Earth.
The game is played on a single screen, and the player’s spaceship is located at the bottom of the screen. The comets enter the screen from the top, and the player must move their spaceship left and right to avoid them. The player can also fire their laser cannon by pressing the fire button.
The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses. The comets move faster and in more erratic patterns, and the player must be increasingly precise with their shots. The game also features a number of power-ups that can help the player, such as a shield that protects their spaceship from damage and a speed boost that allows them to move faster.
Crazy Comets was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics. The game was also a popular choice for speedrunners, who would compete to see who could complete the game in the fastest time.
Gameplay
Crazy Comets is a simple but addictive game to play. The player controls their spaceship with the joystick or keyboard, and they can fire their laser cannon by pressing the fire button. The goal of the game is to destroy all of the comets before they reach the Earth.
The game is played on a single screen, and the player’s spaceship is located at the bottom of the screen. The comets enter the screen from the top, and the player must move their spaceship left and right to avoid them. The player can also fire their laser cannon to destroy the comets.
The comets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they move at different speeds and directions. Some comets are small and slow, while others are large and fast. The player must be careful to avoid all of the comets, as even a single hit can destroy their spaceship.
The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses. The comets move faster and in more erratic patterns, and the player must be increasingly precise with their shots. The game also features a number of power-ups that can help the player, such as a shield that protects their spaceship from damage and a speed boost that allows them to move faster.
Graphics and Sound
Crazy Comets features impressive graphics for a game of its time. The comets are detailed and colorful, and the backgrounds are varied and well-drawn. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that adds to the overall atmosphere.
Legacy
Crazy Comets was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics. The game was also a popular choice for speedrunners, who would compete to see who could complete the game in the fastest time.
Crazy Comets has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST. The game has also been released on a number of compilation albums, such as the Commodore 64 Anthology and the Ultimate Commodore 64 Collection.
Crazy Comets remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by many retro gamers. The game is a testament to the skill and creativity of the developers at Melbourne House.
Tips for Playing Crazy Comets
Here are a few tips for playing Crazy Comets:
- Use the shield power-up wisely. The shield power-up protects your spaceship from damage, so it is important to use it wisely. Try to save the shield for when you are in a particularly difficult situation, such as when you are surrounded by a large number of comets.
- Use the speed boost power-up to your advantage. The speed boost power-up allows you to move your spaceship faster, which can be helpful for dodging comets and getting out of tight situations. Try to use the speed boost power-up when you are in a safe area, so that you can make the most of it.
- Be patient. Crazy Comets is a challenging game, but it is also a very rewarding one. If you are patient and persistent, you will eventually be able to master the game.
Conclusion
Crazy Comets is a fast-paced and challenging space shooter that is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. The game features impressive graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay. If you are a fan of classic arcade games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Crazy Comets.
Review Score
7.5/10
