Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Developers: Impact Software Development, Ltd.
- Publishers: Ocean Software
Nightbreed: The Action Game (1990)
Nightbreed: The Action Game is a side-scrolling action game developed by Ocean Software and released in 1990 for the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, and ZX Spectrum. It is based on the 1989 Clive Barker film of the same name.
The player controls Boone, the protagonist of the film, as he fights his way through the underground city of Midian, battling the Sons of the Free and the Berserkers. The game is divided into five levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and challenges.
Gameplay
Nightbreed: The Action Game is a side-scrolling action game in which the player controls Boone from a third-person perspective. Boone can walk, jump, and attack with his fists or a variety of weapons, including knives, guns, and grenades. He can also use special abilities, such as berserker mode, which increases his strength and speed.
The game is divided into five levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and challenges. The first level takes place in the sewers of Midian, where Boone must fight his way through hordes of rats and other creatures. The second level takes place in a slaughterhouse, where Boone must battle butchers and other workers. The third level takes place in a church, where Boone must fight priests and other religious zealots. The fourth level takes place in a hospital, where Boone must fight doctors and nurses. The fifth and final level takes place in the heart of Midian, where Boone must fight the leader of the Sons of the Free, Peloquin.
Development
Nightbreed: The Action Game was developed by Ocean Software, a British video game company founded in 1984. The game was directed by John Phillips, who had previously worked on other Ocean games such as RoboCop and The Terminator.
The game was developed on a tight budget and schedule, and it shows in some of the game’s rough edges. However, the game is still a fun and challenging action game with plenty of gore and action.
Reception
Nightbreed: The Action Game received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s graphics and gameplay, while others criticized its difficulty and lack of originality. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Nightbreed: The Action Game is a cult classic among fans of the film and action games in general. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers plenty of replay value. The game is also notable for its graphic violence, which was considered controversial at the time of its release.
Additional Information
- Nightbreed: The Action Game was the first of a planned trilogy of games based on the Clive Barker movie. The second game, Nightbreed: The Interactive Movie, was released in 1992. The third game was never released.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Tim Follin, who also composed the soundtracks for other Ocean games such as RoboCop and The Terminator.
- The game was banned in Germany due to its graphic violence.
Tips for Playing Nightbreed: The Action Game
- Use your special abilities wisely. Berserker mode can be very effective in clearing out large groups of enemies, but it drains your health quickly.
- Don’t be afraid to use weapons. Guns and grenades can be very effective against certain enemies.
- Be careful of traps. There are many traps hidden throughout the game, so be sure to watch your step.
- Save your game often. The game is very difficult, so it’s important to save your progress frequently.
Conclusion
Nightbreed: The Action Game is a challenging and rewarding action game that offers plenty of replay value. It is a must-play for fans of the film and action games in general.
Review Score
7/10
