Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Arcade
- Platforms: Arcade, ColecoVision
- Developers: Exidy
- Publishers: Coleco
Pepper II: A Retro Maze Masterpiece
Released in 1982, Pepper II is a maze game with a unique twist that quickly became a classic in the golden age of arcade gaming. Developed by Data East, Pepper II tasks players with completing a series of increasingly challenging mazes by zipping closed all of the sections. However, backtracking can cause players to unzip their path, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Gameplay
Pepper II presents players with a series of four mazes per stage, each with its own unique layout and challenges. Players control a small square character that can move up, down, left, and right through the maze. By pressing the fire button, players can zip closed any open section of the maze, filling it with color. The goal is to zip closed all of the sections in the maze, at which point the maze is complete and the player can move on to the next one.
However, Pepper II is not without its challenges. Enemy creatures roam the mazes, and touching one will result in the player losing a life. Players can fight back by zipping closed sections of the maze that contain power-ups, which can make the player invincible for a short time or clear the screen of all enemies.
Zipping Mechanics
One of the unique features of Pepper II is its zipping mechanic. Players can zip closed any open section of the maze, but they must be careful not to backtrack and unzip their own path. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must carefully plan their route through each maze.
In addition, players can use the exits located at the top, bottom, and sides of the screen to move from maze to maze. This allows players to skip mazes that they are struggling with or to quickly reach later stages of the game.
Graphics and Sound
Pepper II features colorful and vibrant graphics that were impressive for its time. The mazes are well-designed and varied, and the enemy creatures are unique and memorable. The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and upbeat, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.
Legacy
Pepper II was a commercial success upon its release, and it has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game’s unique gameplay and challenging difficulty have made it a favorite among fans of maze games and arcade classics.
Pepper II has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Atari 8-bit family. It has also been included in several retro game compilations.
Conclusion
Pepper II is a timeless classic that still holds up today. Its challenging gameplay, unique zipping mechanic, and colorful graphics make it a must-play for fans of maze games and retro gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Pepper II is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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