Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Commodore C64/128/MAX, MSX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Infogrames
- Publishers: Infogrames
Mandragore (1985): A Retro Platformer Gem
Mandragore is a side-scrolling platformer released in 1985 for the Amstrad CPC, MSX, and ZX Spectrum. The game was developed by French studio Coktel Vision and published by Loriciels.
In Mandragore, the player controls a brave knight who must rescue the princess from an evil sorcerer. The knight must fight his way through 20 rooms, each with its own unique enemies and obstacles. The game features colorful graphics, tight gameplay, and a catchy soundtrack.
Gameplay
Mandragore is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls a brave knight. The knight must jump, shoot, and climb his way through 20 rooms, each with its own unique enemies and obstacles. The game features a variety of enemies, including spiders, bats, ogres, and ghosts. The knight must also avoid traps and hazards, such as spikes, pits, and fireballs.
The knight has a variety of weapons at his disposal, including a sword, a bow and arrow, and a boomerang. The knight can also collect power-ups, such as health potions and extra lives.
Graphics and Sound
Mandragore features colorful and detailed graphics. The game’s backgrounds are lush and vibrant, and the sprites are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and memorable.
Reception
Mandragore was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and sound. Mandragore was also a finalist for the Golden Joystick Award for Best Arcade Game of the Year.
Legacy
Mandragore is considered to be one of the best platformers of the 8-bit era. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, its challenging levels, and its charming graphics. Mandragore has also been cited as an influence on later platformers, such as Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog.
Conclusion
Mandragore is a classic platformer that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging levels, charming graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing Mandragore
Here are a few tips for playing Mandragore:
- Be patient. Mandragore is a challenging game, but it is also fair. If you take your time and learn the levels, you will be able to beat the game.
- Use your weapons wisely. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses. Use the right weapon for the right situation.
- Collect power-ups. Power-ups can give you an edge in battle. Be sure to collect as many power-ups as you can.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is more than one way to beat each level. Experiment with different strategies to find the one that works best for you.
- Have fun! Mandragore is a challenging but rewarding game. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
Additional Information
- Mandragore was originally released in France in 1985. The game was later released in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Germany.
- Mandragore was ported to the Commodore 64 in 1986. The Commodore 64 version of the game was published by Psygnosis.
- Mandragore was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2008.
- Mandragore was developed by a team of just two people: Michel Abt and Jean-François Grandin.
- Mandragore is considered to be one of the first platformers to feature a female protagonist. The princess, who is the player’s goal, is a playable character in the game’s two-player mode.
- Mandragore was a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
- Mandragore has been praised by critics for its graphics, gameplay, and sound. The game has been cited as an influence on later platformers, such as Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
