Summary
- Platforms: ZX Spectrum
The Custard Kid: A Sweet and Challenging Retro Treat
Released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, The Custard Kid is a charming and challenging platformer that has stood the test of time. Players take control of the titular Custard Kid, a young boy who must use his trusty spoon to navigate a variety of levels filled with enemies, hazards, and of course, plenty of custard.
The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. Custard Kid can run, jump, and use his spoon to attack enemies and collect items. He can also use his spoon to swing across gaps and climb up walls.
The levels in The Custard Kid are varied and imaginative, and each one presents its own unique challenges. Players must navigate through treacherous ice caves, climb up giant beanstalks, and even travel through a giant stomach. Along the way, they’ll encounter a variety of enemies, including custard monsters, flying pies, and even giant spiders.
In addition to the main story mode, The Custard Kid also features a number of bonus levels and minigames. These include a time attack mode, a level editor, and a two-player versus mode.
The Custard Kid was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has remained popular with retro gamers ever since. The game’s charming graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay have made it a timeless classic.
Gameplay
The Custard Kid is a side-scrolling platformer in which players control the titular character as he runs, jumps, and uses his spoon to attack enemies and collect items. The game’s levels are filled with a variety of hazards, including spikes, pits, and enemies. Players must use their skills and quick thinking to navigate these hazards and reach the end of each level.
The Custard Kid can use his spoon to attack enemies in a variety of ways. He can swing it like a sword, throw it like a boomerang, or even use it to pogo stick on top of enemies. He can also use his spoon to collect items, such as coins, hearts, and power-ups.
The Custard Kid can also use his spoon to swing across gaps and climb up walls. This allows him to reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Levels
The Custard Kid features a total of 50 levels, each with its own unique challenges. The levels are divided into five worlds, each with its own theme. The first world is a grassy meadow, the second world is an ice cave, the third world is a forest, the fourth world is a desert, and the fifth world is a castle.
Each world features a variety of different enemies and hazards. For example, the first world is home to custard monsters and flying pies, while the second world is home to ice golems and snowmen.
The final level of each world is a boss battle. The bosses are large and powerful enemies that require the player to use all of their skills to defeat them.
Bonus Levels and Minigames
In addition to the main story mode, The Custard Kid also features a number of bonus levels and minigames. These include:
- Time Attack Mode: In this mode, players must race against the clock to complete a series of levels.
- Level Editor: This mode allows players to create their own levels.
- Two-Player Versus Mode: This mode allows two players to compete against each other in a variety of levels.
Graphics and Sound
The Custard Kid’s graphics are charming and colorful, and the game’s music is catchy and upbeat. The game’s overall presentation is very polished, and it’s clear that a lot of care and attention went into its development.
Reception
The Custard Kid was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its charming graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
The Custard Kid has remained popular with retro gamers ever since its release. The game is often cited as one of the best platformers on the NES, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages.
Legacy
The Custard Kid has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s unique gameplay and charming characters have inspired a number of other games, including Super Mario World and Kirby’s Dream Land. The game has also been featured in a number of television shows and movies, including The Simpsons and Wreck-It Ralph.
The Custard Kid is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages. The game’s charming graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for any fan of platformers.
Review Score
7/10
