Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX
- Publishers: Anirog Software Ltd.
Cybotron: A Retrospective
Introduction
Cybotron is a single-screen shooter released in 1984 for the ZX Spectrum. It was developed by David Whittaker and published by Imagine Software. The game is heavily inspired by the arcade classic Robotron 2084, but with some key differences.
Gameplay
Cybotron is viewed from a high elevated angle and the player controls a spaceship that must destroy all robots on the screen to move to the next level. The player is armed with a laser and can move in any direction. However, if the player touches any robot, they will lose one of three lives.
In addition to robots, there are also humans wandering around the screen. These humans can be collected for bonus points. The game also features a variety of power-ups that can be collected to give the player an advantage, such as increased firepower and speed.
Controls
Cybotron can be played with either one or two joysticks. With one joystick, the player controls both the movement and firing direction of their spaceship. With two joysticks, one joystick controls the movement of the spaceship and the other joystick controls the firing direction.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Cybotron are simple but effective. The robots and humans are all distinct and easily recognizable. The game’s sound effects are also well done and help to create a sense of atmosphere.
Difficulty
Cybotron is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The player has a limited number of lives, but there are also plenty of power-ups to help them along the way. The game’s difficulty is also adjustable, so players can choose a difficulty level that is appropriate for their skill level.
Legacy
Cybotron was a critical and commercial success. It was one of the best-selling ZX Spectrum games of 1984 and was praised for its addictive gameplay and challenging difficulty. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST.
Cybotron is still enjoyed by retro gamers today. It is a classic example of a single-screen shooter and is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you succeed in Cybotron:
- Use the power-ups to your advantage. The power-ups in Cybotron can give you a significant advantage, so be sure to collect them whenever you can.
- Stay away from the robots. The robots in Cybotron are deadly, so it is important to avoid them as much as possible. If you do come into contact with a robot, try to move away as quickly as possible.
- Collect the humans. The humans in Cybotron are worth bonus points, so be sure to collect them whenever you can.
- Practice makes perfect. The best way to get good at Cybotron is to practice. The more you play, the better you will become at avoiding the robots and collecting the power-ups.
Conclusion
Cybotron is a classic single-screen shooter that is still enjoyed by retro gamers today. It is a challenging but fair game with addictive gameplay and simple but effective graphics. If you are a fan of the genre, then you owe it to yourself to check out Cybotron.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
