Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Platform, Puzzle
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Arcana Software Limited
- Publishers: Screen 7
High Steel (1989): A Vertigo-Inducing Arcade Classic
Released in 1989, High Steel is an arcade game that puts you in the precarious position of a high steel worker, tasked with building a skyscraper while dodging obstacles and enemies. With its addictive gameplay, thrilling sense of danger, and quirky sense of humor, High Steel is a true classic of the arcade era.
Gameplay
The goal of High Steel is to build a skyscraper by stacking girders on top of each other. You control a worker who can move left and right along the girder, and you must use your grappling hook to attach new girders to the stack. However, your job is made more difficult by a variety of obstacles and enemies.
Obstacles in High Steel include slippery paint cans, falling bricks, and gusty winds. Enemies include pigeons, seagulls, and even gremlins that can chew through your girders. You must use your agility and quick reflexes to avoid these hazards and keep your stack of girders growing.
Levels
High Steel has a total of 100 levels, each of which presents a new challenge. The levels get progressively more difficult as you progress, with new obstacles and enemies being introduced. Some levels have special gimmicks, such as a level where you must build a bridge across a gap or a level where you must dodge a giant wrecking ball.
Power-Ups
Throughout the game, you can collect power-ups that will help you to overcome the challenges you face. These power-ups include:
- Super Spanner: Gives your worker a temporary boost of strength, allowing him to throw objects farther and knock out enemies with a single hit.
- Hard Hat: Protects your worker from falling objects and enemy attacks.
- Safety Net: Catches your worker if he falls off the girder, preventing him from losing a life.
- Extra Life: Grants your worker an extra life.
Graphics and Sound
High Steel’s graphics are simple but effective, with bright colors and detailed sprites. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, with realistic sound effects for the construction site and catchy music that adds to the excitement of the gameplay.
Reception
High Steel was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s addictive gameplay, challenging difficulty, and quirky sense of humor. The game was also a hit with arcade-goers, who were drawn to its fast-paced action and the challenge of mastering its 100 levels.
Legacy
High Steel is considered to be one of the best arcade games of its era. The game’s unique blend of action, strategy, and humor has made it a favorite of retro gamers for decades. High Steel has been ported to a number of home platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amiga, and PC.
Conclusion
High Steel is a timeless arcade classic that offers a thrilling and addictive experience. With its challenging gameplay, charming graphics, and quirky sense of humor, High Steel is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and anyone who enjoys a good challenge.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
