Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Puzzle
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC
- Publishers: Britannia Software ltd
Dempsey and Makepeace (1986): A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane
Introduction
Dempsey and Makepeace (1986) is a licensed game based on the popular British television series of the same name. The game was developed by Alternative Software and published by Elite Systems for the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Amstrad CPC home computers.
Gameplay
Dempsey and Makepeace is a top-down action game in which the player controls either Detective Inspector Harry Dempsey or Detective Sergeant Tessa Makepeace. The game is set in the fictional town of Hartley and the surrounding countryside. The player must investigate crimes, solve puzzles, and apprehend criminals.
The game is divided into four levels, each with its own unique set of challenges. In the first level, the player must investigate a series of burglaries. In the second level, the player must track down a missing person. In the third level, the player must stop a group of terrorists from bombing a local factory. In the fourth and final level, the player must rescue Makepeace from the clutches of a kidnapper.
Reception
Dempsey and Makepeace received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the game’s graphics and sound, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of challenge. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Dempsey and Makepeace is remembered as a solid licensed game that captured the spirit of the popular television series. The game is still enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.
Detailed Gameplay
The player begins each level by selecting one of two characters to play as: Detective Inspector Harry Dempsey or Detective Sergeant Tessa Makepeace. Each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Dempsey is stronger and more durable, while Makepeace is faster and more agile.
Once the player has selected a character, they are dropped into the game world. The player can move their character around the screen using the joystick or keyboard. The player can interact with objects in the environment by pressing the fire button.
The player must investigate crimes by talking to witnesses, collecting evidence, and solving puzzles. The player can also use their fists or weapons to fight criminals.
The player’s goal in each level is to apprehend the criminals responsible for the crimes being investigated. The player can do this by either arresting them or killing them.
Enemies
The player will encounter a variety of enemies in Dempsey and Makepeace. These enemies include:
- Burglars
- Thugs
- Terrorists
- Kidnappers
Each type of enemy has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player must use their wits and skills to defeat each type of enemy.
Weapons
The player can use a variety of weapons to fight enemies in Dempsey and Makepeace. These weapons include:
- Fists
- Guns
- Knives
The player can also use environmental objects as weapons, such as rocks and bottles.
Power-Ups
The player can collect power-ups throughout the game to help them defeat their enemies. These power-ups include:
- Health packs
- Ammo packs
- Weapon upgrades
Bosses
Each level of Dempsey and Makepeace features a boss battle. The bosses are the most powerful enemies in the game, and they require the player to use all of their skills and abilities to defeat them.
Conclusion
Dempsey and Makepeace is a classic licensed game that still holds up today. The game’s solid gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music make it a great choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
