Summary
Spasim (1974): The Granddaddy of 3D Multiplayer Gaming
In the annals of gaming history, there are a few titles that stand out as true pioneers, games that pushed the boundaries of what was possible and laid the groundwork for the industry we know today. One such game is Spasim (short for “space simulation”), a 3D multiplayer space combat game released in 1974.
Spasim was developed by Jim Bowery for the PLATO computer system, a cutting-edge educational computing platform that was used in schools and universities throughout the United States. Bowery was inspired by another PLATO game called Empire, a text-based multiplayer space strategy game. However, he wanted to create a game that was more immersive and visually appealing, and so he set out to develop the first 3D multiplayer game.
Spasim was groundbreaking in many ways. It was the first game to feature 3D graphics, allowing players to fly around in space and see each other’s ships as wire-frame models. It was also the first game to support up to 32 players in a single game, and it featured a variety of different ships and weapons to choose from.
Gameplay in Spasim is simple but addictive. Players start out in one of four planetary systems, and they can then fly around space, exploring, mining for resources, and attacking other players. The game is fast-paced and chaotic, and it requires players to have quick reflexes and a good understanding of the game’s physics.
Spasim was a huge success on the PLATO system, and it quickly became one of the most popular games on the network. It was also influential on the development of other multiplayer games, including airfight, Battlezone, and Sublogic’s Microsoft Flight Simulator.
In 1994, Bowery released a remake of Spasim for the PC, and the game has since been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Mac, Linux, and mobile devices. The remake features updated graphics and sound, but the gameplay remains largely the same.
Today, Spasim is still considered to be one of the most important and influential games in history. It was a pioneer in the field of 3D multiplayer gaming, and it helped to pave the way for the modern online gaming industry. If you’re a fan of space combat games, or if you’re just interested in the history of gaming, then you owe it to yourself to check out Spasim.
Here are some of the key features of Spasim:
- 3D graphics
- Multiplayer support for up to 32 players
- A variety of different ships and weapons to choose from
- Fast-paced and chaotic gameplay
- A large and active community
If you’re interested in playing Spasim, you can download the remake for free from the following website:
https://spasim.sourceforge.io/
Here are some tips for playing Spasim:
- Start out by playing in the single-player mode to get a feel for the controls and the gameplay.
- Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can join a multiplayer game.
- Be sure to choose a ship that suits your play style.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons and tactics.
- Work together with your teammates to achieve your goals.
Spasim is a challenging and rewarding game, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the history of gaming.
Review Score
9/10
