Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Atari Lynx, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Epyx
- Publishers: Atari Corporation, Mumin Corporation
Gates of Zendocon: A Sprawling Space Shooter with a Unique Branching Level Structure
Released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Gates of Zendocon is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up that takes inspiration from the arcade classic Scramble. However, Gates of Zendocon sets itself apart with its unique branching level structure and a variety of power-ups and enemy types.
Gameplay
The player controls a spaceship that must navigate through a series of 51 levels, each with its own unique layout and enemies. The ship is equipped with a standard blaster, but can also collect power-ups that enhance its firepower, speed, and shield strength.
One of the most unique aspects of Gates of Zendocon is its branching level structure. After completing each level, the player is presented with a choice of two or more paths to take. Each path leads to a different set of levels, so the player can choose their own path through the game.
This branching structure gives Gates of Zendocon a great deal of replayability, as players can experiment with different paths and try to find the best way to complete the game.
Power-Ups
Gates of Zendocon features a variety of power-ups that can help the player to survive and defeat the enemy aliens. These power-ups include:
- Speed Up: Increases the speed of the player’s ship.
- Power Up: Increases the power of the player’s blaster.
- Shield Up: Increases the strength of the player’s shield.
- Missile: Gives the player a homing missile that can lock onto and destroy enemy targets.
- Laser: Gives the player a powerful laser beam that can pierce through multiple enemies.
Enemies
Gates of Zendocon features a variety of enemy aliens, each with their own unique attack patterns. Some of the most common enemy types include:
- Grunts: Small, weak aliens that fly in formation.
- Kamikazes: Small, fast aliens that fly directly at the player’s ship and explode on contact.
- Gunners: Larger, more powerful aliens that fire lasers at the player’s ship.
- Bosses: Large, powerful aliens that guard the end of each level.
Graphics and Sound
Gates of Zendocon’s graphics are colorful and detailed, with smooth scrolling and well-animated sprites. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that add to the excitement of the gameplay.
Overall
Gates of Zendocon is a fun and challenging shoot-’em-up that offers a unique branching level structure and a variety of power-ups and enemy types. With its great graphics, sound, and replayability, Gates of Zendocon is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing Gates of Zendocon
Here are a few tips for playing Gates of Zendocon:
- Use the power-ups wisely. Power-ups can give you a significant advantage in battle, so make sure to use them when you need them most.
- Be careful of the alien bases. Landing at an alien base at the wrong time can cause your ship to explode and lose all of your power-ups.
- Experiment with different paths. The branching level structure of Gates of Zendocon gives you a lot of freedom to choose your own path through the game. Experiment with different paths to find the best way to complete the game.
- Don’t be afraid to die. Dying is a part of the learning process in Gates of Zendocon. Each time you die, you’ll learn more about the game and how to avoid making the same mistakes twice.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Gates of Zendocon and defeat the evil Zendocon Empire.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
