Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Shooter, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: IBM
- Publishers: IBM
QBasic Gorillas: A Detailed Retrospective
Released in 1991 as part of MS-DOS 5, QBasic Gorillas is a turn-based artillery game that quickly became a classic. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and its addictive gameplay has kept players coming back for decades.
Gameplay
Gorillas is played by two players, each controlling a gorilla on opposite sides of a city skyline. The goal of the game is to be the first player to knock their opponent’s gorilla off the screen. Players take turns launching bananas at each other, using a slingshot-like mechanic to control the angle and velocity of each throw.
In addition to the standard gravity setting, Gorillas also allows players to adjust the gravitational pull of the planet. This can make the game more challenging, as players must account for the changing trajectory of their bananas.
Legacy
Gorillas was a critical and commercial success, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. The game has also been the inspiration for a number of other games, including the popular mobile game Angry Birds.
Critical Reception
Gorillas received positive reviews from critics upon its release. praised the game’s simple but addictive gameplay, and its challenging difficulty. The game was also praised for its innovative use of physics, which allowed players to experiment with different ways to launch their bananas.
Cultural Impact
Gorillas has had a significant cultural impact, and it is often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time. The game has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, and it has been parodied and referenced in popular culture.
Graphics
Gorillas’ graphics are simple but effective. The game’s characters and backgrounds are rendered in a blocky, pixelated style that is reminiscent of early arcade games. The game’s use of color is also limited, but it is effective in creating a sense of atmosphere.
Sound
Gorillas’ sound effects are simple but effective. The game’s most iconic sound is the “boing” sound that is made when a banana is launched. The game also features a variety of other sound effects, such as the sound of bananas exploding and the sound of gorillas grunting.
Music
Gorillas does not have any music, but the game’s sound effects are so catchy that they almost make up for it. The game’s “boing” sound is particularly memorable, and it has been used in a variety of other games and media.
Overall
QBasic Gorillas is a classic turn-based artillery game that is still a blast to play today. The game’s simple gameplay, challenging difficulty, and innovative use of physics make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing Gorillas
Here are a few tips for playing Gorillas:
- Use the gravitational pull to your advantage. By adjusting the gravitational pull, you can make your bananas fly higher, lower, or even curve around obstacles.
- Experiment with different angles and velocities. The key to winning Gorillas is to find the right combination of angle and velocity to hit your opponent’s gorilla.
- Don’t be afraid to use the wind. The wind can help you to launch your bananas higher or lower, or even change their direction.
- Be patient. Gorillas is a game of skill and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t win right away. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Conclusion
QBasic Gorillas is a classic video game that is still enjoyed by people of all ages. The game’s simple gameplay, challenging difficulty, and innovative use of physics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging game to play, then Gorillas is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
