Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: id Software
- Publishers: Softdisk
Hovertank 3D: A Pioneering 3D Shooter from id Software
Released in 1991, Hovertank 3D is a groundbreaking first-person shooter (FPS) developed by id Software, the legendary studio behind Wolfenstein 3D, Doom, and Quake. While it may not be as well-known as these later titles, Hovertank 3D holds a significant place in gaming history as one of the earliest examples of a true 3D FPS.
Gameplay
Hovertank 3D puts players in control of a futuristic tank that hovers just above the ground. The game is set in a series of 3D mazes filled with敵 and obstacles. Players must navigate these mazes, using their tank’s weapons to destroy敵 and reach the exit.
The game’s controls are simple but effective. Players use the arrow keys to move their tank forward, backward, and sideways. The mouse is used to aim and fire the tank’s weapons. Hovertank 3D also features a unique “look up/down” feature, which allows players to aim their weapons at different heights. This feature was groundbreaking at the time and would become a staple of future FPS games.
Graphics
For its time, Hovertank 3D’s graphics were impressive. The game used a combination of scaled sprites and drawn walls to create a sense of 3D space. While the walls were solid colors with no textures, the sprites were detailed and well-animated. The game also featured a variety of different environments, including deserts, forests, and mountains.
Sound
The sound in Hovertank 3D is simple but effective. The game features a variety of sound effects, including explosions, gunfire, and the sound of the tank’s engine. The music is also well-composed and helps to create a sense of atmosphere.
Legacy
Hovertank 3D was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, graphics, and sound. It also helped to popularize the FPS genre and paved the way for future classics like Wolfenstein 3D and Doom.
In addition to its historical significance, Hovertank 3D is also a fun and challenging game to play today. The game’s simple controls and addictive gameplay make it easy to pick up and play, but the challenging levels will keep players coming back for more.
Conclusion
Hovertank 3D is a groundbreaking FPS that helped to define the genre. With its innovative gameplay, graphics, and sound, the game set a new standard for 3D shooters. While it may not be as well-known as some of id Software’s later titles, Hovertank 3D deserves to be remembered as one of the most important games in the history of FPS gaming.
Additional Information
- Hovertank 3D was developed by a team of four people: John Carmack, John Romero, Tom Hall, and Adrian Carmack.
- The game was originally released as shareware, but was later sold commercially by Apogee Software.
- Hovertank 3D was ported to a number of different platforms, including the Atari ST, Amiga, and Macintosh.
- The game’s source code was released in 1999, and it has since been ported to a number of modern platforms.
Personal Opinion
I think Hovertank 3D is a great game that still holds up today. The gameplay is simple but addictive, the graphics are impressive for their time, and the sound is well-composed. If you’re a fan of FPS games or the history of gaming, I highly recommend checking out Hovertank 3D.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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