Dervish (1988)

by Christopher May 16, 2021

written by Christopher May 16, 2021 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1988
Platforms: Amstrad CPC

Dervish: A Classic Action Maze Game for the Amstrad CPC and ZX Spectrum

Released in 1988 for the Amstrad CPC and ZX Spectrum, Dervish is an action-packed maze game that quickly became a favorite among retro gamers. Developed by John R. Keneally and published by The Power House, Dervish tasks players with guiding their character through a series of increasingly challenging mazes, avoiding enemies and collecting power-ups along the way.

Gameplay

Dervish is played from a top-down perspective, with the player character represented by a small square. The goal of each level is to reach the exit, which is located somewhere within the maze. However, the player’s path is blocked by a variety of enemies, including ghosts, spiders, and bats. To defeat these enemies, the player must collect power-ups that give them the ability to shoot projectiles.

In addition to enemies, the player must also contend with a variety of environmental hazards, such as spikes, pits, and conveyor belts. The player can also collect keys to unlock doors that block their progress.

Levels

Dervish features a total of 50 levels, each of which is more challenging than the last. The levels are set in a variety of different environments, including caves, forests, and castles. As the player progresses through the game, they will encounter new types of enemies and obstacles.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Dervish featured impressive graphics and sound. The mazes are well-designed and detailed, and the enemies are varied and well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a catchy main theme and a variety of atmospheric tracks that help to create a sense of suspense and excitement.

Legacy

Dervish was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a popular game among retro gamers today. The game has been praised for its addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and excellent graphics and sound. Dervish is considered to be one of the best action maze games ever made, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Tips for Playing Dervish

Here are a few tips for playing Dervish:

Be careful when collecting power-ups. Some power-ups can be harmful, so be sure to read the description before collecting them.
Use the environment to your advantage. The mazes are full of environmental hazards, but you can also use them to your advantage. For example, you can use spikes to kill enemies or conveyor belts to move around the maze more quickly.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is no one right way to play Dervish. Experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you.
Practice makes perfect. The more you play Dervish, the better you will become at it. So don’t give up if you get stuck on a level. Just keep practicing and you will eventually beat it.

Conclusion

Dervish is a classic action maze game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. With its addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and excellent graphics and sound, Dervish is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.