Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Digital Integration
Extreme: A Commodore 64 Classic That Will Test Your Skills and Reflexes
Released in 1991 by the legendary British software house Psygnosis, Extreme is a fast-paced, precision platformer that pushed the Commodore 64 to its limits. With its challenging levels, tight controls, and catchy music, Extreme is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.
Gameplay
Extreme is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls a small, agile character named Xero. Xero must run, jump, and climb his way through a variety of treacherous levels, avoiding obstacles and enemies. The levels are filled with spikes, pits, lasers, and other hazards, and Xero must use all of his skills to survive.
One of the things that makes Extreme so challenging is its unforgiving difficulty. Xero dies with just one hit, and the levels are filled with instant-death traps. This means that players must be extremely careful and precise in their movements.
However, Extreme is also a very fair game. The controls are tight and responsive, and Xero’s movements are always predictable. This means that players can always learn from their mistakes and improve their skills.
Levels
Extreme features a total of 25 levels, each of which is more challenging than the last. The levels are set in a variety of different environments, including forests, caves, factories, and even outer space.
Each level is filled with unique obstacles and enemies, and players must use all of their skills to survive. For example, one level features a section where Xero must jump across a series of moving platforms while avoiding lasers. Another level features a boss fight against a giant spider.
Graphics and Sound
Extreme’s graphics are simple but effective. The characters and environments are all well-drawn, and the game’s use of color is vibrant and eye-catching. The game’s music is also excellent, with a catchy techno soundtrack that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay.
Legacy
Extreme was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered one of the best platformers on the Commodore 64. The game has been praised for its challenging gameplay, tight controls, and catchy music.
Extreme has also been influential on other platformers, such as Super Meat Boy and Celeste. These games share Extreme’s focus on challenging gameplay and tight controls, and they have both been praised for their excellent level design.
Conclusion
Extreme is a classic platformer that is still enjoyed by gamers today. With its challenging gameplay, tight controls, and catchy music, Extreme is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.
Tips for Playing Extreme
If you’re new to Extreme, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Be patient. Extreme is a challenging game, and it may take some time to get used to the controls and the level design. Don’t get discouraged if you die a lot at first. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
- Learn from your mistakes. Every time you die, take a moment to figure out what went wrong. Did you make a mistake in your timing? Did you jump too early or too late? Once you know what went wrong, you can avoid making the same mistake again.
- Use all of your skills. Xero has a variety of skills that he can use to overcome obstacles and enemies. Make sure you’re using all of his skills to your advantage. For example, Xero can double jump to reach higher platforms, and he can wall jump to climb up walls.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to complete each level in Extreme. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies to find the one that works best for you.
With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to master Extreme and become one of the best players in the world.
Review Score
8/10
