Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Arcade, Indie, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, DOS
- Developers: Think!Ware Development
- Publishers: Digital Integration
Supaplex: A Boulder-Dashing Good Time
Released in 1991, Supaplex is a puzzle game that takes the Boulder Dash formula and adds a number of new elements, including bugs, electrostatic discharges, ports, and terminals. The result is a game that is more challenging and varied than its predecessor, and one that has stood the test of time.
Gameplay
The goal of Supaplex is to collect all of the diamonds on each level while avoiding the various hazards. Murphy, the main character, can move in any direction, and he can push blocks to crush enemies or create paths to diamonds. However, Murphy is also vulnerable to being crushed by blocks, so he must be careful not to get himself into a situation where he can’t escape.
In addition to the basic gameplay elements, Supaplex also introduces a number of new features that make the game more challenging and varied. These features include:
- Bugs: Bugs are small, fast-moving creatures that can damage Murphy if he touches them. Bugs can be killed by pushing blocks on them, but they can also be used to the player’s advantage. For example, bugs can be used to trigger electrostatic discharges, which can damage enemies or destroy blocks.
- Electrostatic discharges: Electrostatic discharges are random events that can occur on any level. When an electrostatic discharge occurs, all of the metal objects on the screen will become electrified, and Murphy will be damaged if he touches them. Electrostatic discharges can be avoided by staying away from metal objects, or by using bugs to trigger them in a safe location.
- Ports: Ports are special tiles that restrict Murphy’s movement. Murphy can only move through a port in the direction that the port is facing. Ports can be used to create puzzles that require the player to think carefully about their movements.
- Terminals: Terminals are special tiles that set off yellow Utility Disks. Utility Disks are explosive floppy disks that can be used to destroy blocks or damage enemies. Terminals can be used to solve puzzles or to create shortcuts.
Levels
Supaplex features over 100 levels, each of which is more challenging than the last. The levels are divided into four difficulty levels: easy, medium, hard, and expert. The easy levels are designed to teach the player the basics of the game, while the expert levels are designed to challenge even the most experienced players.
Graphics and sound
Supaplex’s graphics are colorful and isometric, and the game’s soundtrack is catchy and upbeat. The game’s visuals and audio create a fun and inviting atmosphere that makes it easy to get lost in the game for hours on end.
Legacy
Supaplex was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has since become one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The game has been ported to a wide variety of platforms, including the PC, Amiga, Atari ST, and Game Boy. Supaplex has also been praised for its innovative gameplay and its challenging levels.
Conclusion
Supaplex is a classic puzzle game that is still fun to play today. With its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and colorful graphics, Supaplex is a must-play for any fan of puzzle games.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
