The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1984)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a classic interactive fiction game developed by Infocom and released in 1984. It is based on the popular science fiction comedy series of the same name by Douglas Adams. The game is a text adventure in which the player controls Arthur Dent, an ordinary Englishman who finds himself stranded on a distant planet after the Earth is destroyed by the Vogons.

The game follows Arthur as he travels through the galaxy with his newfound friend Ford Prefect, an alien researcher who is disguised as a human. Together, they encounter a variety of strange and wonderful characters, including Zaphod Beeblebrox, the two-headed, three-armed Galactic President; Marvin the Paranoid Android; and Slartibartfast, the creator of the Norwegian fjords.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a challenging but rewarding game. The puzzles are clever and often require the player to think outside the box. The writing is witty and humorous, and the characters are memorable and endearing. The game is also notable for its innovative use of language, which includes the invention of new words and phrases such as “42” and “Don’t Panic.”

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy was a critical and commercial success. It won numerous awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Adventure Game of the Year. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the Commodore 64, Apple II, and IBM PC. It is still considered one of the greatest video games of all time.

Gameplay

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a text adventure game. The player controls Arthur Dent by typing commands. The game world is described in text, and the player must use their imagination to visualize the surroundings. The game is non-linear, and the player can explore the galaxy in any order they choose.

The game’s puzzles are varied and challenging. Some puzzles require the player to find objects, while others require the player to solve logic puzzles or engage in conversation with other characters. The game also features a number of timed puzzles, which add an element of urgency to the gameplay.

Characters

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy features a cast of memorable and endearing characters. The main character, Arthur Dent, is an ordinary Englishman who is thrust into a world of adventure and danger. Ford Prefect is an alien researcher who is disguised as a human. Zaphod Beeblebrox is the two-headed, three-armed Galactic President. Marvin the Paranoid Android is a depressed and pessimistic robot. Slartibartfast is the creator of the Norwegian fjords.

Setting

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is set in the fictional universe of Douglas Adams’s novels. The game takes place on a variety of planets, including Earth, Magrathea, and the Restaurant at the End of the Universe. The game’s world is full of strange and wonderful creatures, and the player will encounter a variety of challenges as they explore the galaxy.

Themes

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy explores a variety of themes, including the meaning of life, the nature of reality, and the importance of friendship. The game also satirizes bureaucracy, religion, and the human condition.

Legacy

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is considered one of the greatest video games of all time. The game has won numerous awards and has been ported to a variety of platforms. The game has also been adapted into a number of other media, including a film, a television series, and a radio series.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a classic game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s clever puzzles, witty writing, and memorable characters make it a timeless classic. If you are a fan of interactive fiction games, or if you are simply looking for a great game to play, I highly recommend checking out The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

Tips for Playing

  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. The game is non-linear, so you can explore the galaxy in any order you choose.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings. The game world is described in text, so you must use your imagination to visualize the surroundings.
  • Talk to other characters. The game features a number of characters who can provide you with information and help.
  • Don’t give up! The game’s puzzles can be challenging, but they are all solvable.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More