Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX
- Developers: Epyx
- Publishers: Epyx
Summer Games (1984): The Ultimate Retro Olympic Experience
Summer Games, released in 1984 by Epyx, is a classic retro sports game that allows up to eight players to compete in a series of summer-themed Olympic events. With its simple gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer, it’s a game that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Summer Games is similar to the other entries in Epyx’s “Games” series, such as Winter Games and California Games. Each player chooses a country to represent and then takes turns competing in various events to see who will win the gold medal. Players can choose to compete in all of the events sequentially, choose a few events, choose just one event, or practice an event.
The events available in Summer Games vary slightly depending on the platform, but may include:
- Pole vault
- Platform diving
- 4×400 meter relay
- 100 meter dash
- Gymnastics
- Freestyle swimming
- Skeet shooting
- 100 meter freestyle
- Rowing
Each event has its own unique set of controls and challenges. For example, in the pole vault, players must time their button presses to run and jump over the bar without knocking it down. In platform diving, players must perform a series of flips and twists before entering the water. And in skeet shooting, players must shoot down flying targets.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Summer Games are simple but effective. The character sprites are small and blocky, but they are well-animated and full of personality. The backgrounds are also simple, but they do a good job of creating a sense of atmosphere.
The sound in Summer Games is also simple but effective. The music is catchy and upbeat, and the sound effects are realistic and add to the overall atmosphere of the game.
Multiplayer
One of the best things about Summer Games is its multiplayer mode. Up to eight players can compete against each other in any of the available events. This makes for some truly exciting and competitive gameplay.
Legacy
Summer Games was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1984. It was praised for its simple gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Summer Games is also notable for being one of the first video games to feature licensed Olympic events. This helped to give the game a sense of authenticity and realism.
Conclusion
Summer Games is a classic retro sports game that has stood the test of time. With its simple gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer, it’s a game that is sure to please gamers of all ages. If you’re looking for a fun and nostalgic way to experience the Olympic Games, then Summer Games is definitely worth checking out.
Here are some additional details and trivia about Summer Games:
- The game was originally developed for the Commodore 64, but it was later ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Apple II, Atari 8-bit family, and Nintendo Entertainment System.
- The game was developed by Epyx, a company that was founded in 1983. Epyx was known for developing a number of popular sports games in the 1980s, including Winter Games, California Games, and World Games.
- Summer Games was one of the first video games to feature licensed Olympic events. This helped to give the game a sense of authenticity and realism.
- The game was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1984. It was praised for its simple gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer.
- Summer Games has been re-released several times over the years, including on the Virtual Console for the Wii and Wii U.
- The game is still popular among retro gaming enthusiasts, and it is considered to be one of the best sports games of its era.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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