Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click
- Platforms: Amiga, DOS
- Developers: Divide By Zero
- Publishers: Psygnosis
Innocent Until Caught: A Tax-Evading Adventure Through the Cosmos
In the year 1993, amidst the rise of the graphical adventure game, a hidden gem emerged from the depths of space. Innocent Until Caught, developed by the British studio Magnetic Scrolls, took players on a whirlwind adventure through a quirky and unforgettable universe.
Plot: A Cosmic Tax Collector’s Odyssey
Jack T. Ladd, our hapless protagonist, finds himself in a predicament that would make even the most seasoned interstellar tax evader break out in a cold sweat. Indebted to the ruthless intergalactic tax authority known as the Interstellar Revenue Decimation Service (IRDS), Jack must race against time to clear his name and avoid the dire consequences of non-payment.
Jack’s quest takes him across three planets—the bustling metropolis of Neo Tokyo, the idyllic paradise of Eden, and the seedy underworld of Hades—and the floating Cloud City of Elysium. Along the way, he encounters a cast of bizarre and unforgettable characters, including Klepto the robot, a kleptomaniac with a penchant for pilfering anything that isn’t nailed down; Dr. Quack, a quack doctor with a dubious reputation; and the enigmatic Oracle, who possesses the knowledge to Jack’s salvation—for a price.
As Jack delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the very fabric of the cosmos. The IRDS, it seems, is not what it appears to be, and Jack must use all his wit and cunning to expose their true nature and save the day.
Gameplay: A Universe of Absurdity
Innocent Until Caught is a classic point-and-click adventure game, with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and witty dialogue. Players control Jack as he interacts with the strange and wonderful inhabitants of the game’s universe, collecting items, solving puzzles, and making choices that will shape the course of his adventure.
The game’s puzzles are a delightful mix of the logical and the absurd, requiring players to think outside the box and embrace the game’s offbeat sense of humor. For example, to obtain a vital piece of evidence, Jack must convince a bartender to serve him a drink called the “Legspreader Cocktail,” which has the unfortunate side effect of causing uncontrollable laughter.
Characters: A Motley Crew of Cosmic Weirdos
Innocent Until Caught’s cast of characters is one of its most endearing features. From the hapless Jack to the eccentric Klepto, each character is imbued with a unique personality and motivations. Players will find themselves laughing out loud at the characters’ witty banter and outrageous antics.
Graphics: A Pixelated Masterpiece
For a game released in 1993, Innocent Until Caught’s graphics are surprisingly charming. The pixel art is detailed and expressive, bringing the game’s quirky universe to life. The game’s locations are varied and imaginative, from the neon-lit streets of Neo Tokyo to the lush gardens of Eden.
Legacy: A Cult Classic of Cosmic Proportions
Despite its initial release being met with mixed reviews, Innocent Until Caught has since gained a cult following among adventure game enthusiasts. Its unique blend of humor, absurdity, and memorable characters has ensured its place as a classic of the genre.
In 2014, the game was re-released on GOG.com, introducing it to a new generation of gamers. The re-release includes updated graphics and sound, making it more accessible to modern audiences.
Conclusion: A Must-Play for Adventure Game Aficionados
Innocent Until Caught is a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered by adventure game fans. Its quirky humor, memorable characters, and offbeat puzzles make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Innocent Until Caught is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a newfound appreciation for the strange and wonderful world of space taxation.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
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