Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Puzzle, Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Firebird Software
The Sentinel (1986): A Surreal and Challenging Masterpiece
Released in 1986 for the Commodore 64, The Sentinel is a surreal and challenging adventure game that stands as a unique and unforgettable experience in gaming history. Created by Geoff Crammond, the game transports players to a mysterious and otherworldly 3D landscape, where they must navigate treacherous levels and outwit the watchful gaze of The Sentinel, a towering statue-like being.
Gameplay: A Unique Blend of Strategy and Survival
The Sentinel plays out on a 3D landscape composed of hills and valleys, each level presenting a distinct challenge. The player begins at the lowest point, with the objective of ascending to The Sentinel’s vantage point and “absorbing” it to progress to the next level.
Energy plays a crucial role in the game. Each object in the world, including the player, possesses a certain amount of energy. The player must carefully manage their energy, as The Sentinel constantly scans the landscape, draining the energy of any object within its gaze.
To navigate the levels, the player must create and manipulate objects in the environment. They can materialize “robot hulls” on visible squares, teleporting to them to traverse the landscape. Boulders and trees can also be created, with boulders providing a means to gain higher ground and trees serving to block The Sentinel’s view.
The Sentinel: A Formidable and Unforgiving Adversary
The Sentinel is a formidable and unforgiving adversary. Its gaze sweeps across the landscape every few seconds, and if it catches sight of the player, a countdown begins. The player has a limited amount of time to teleport to a different location before The Sentinel begins absorbing their energy.
To avoid detection, the player can utilize the environment to their advantage. Trees can be transformed into “Meanies,” which will distract The Sentinel and force it to redirect its gaze. Additionally, the player can create multiple robot hulls and teleport between them, staying one step ahead of The Sentinel’s relentless pursuit.
Surreal and Atmospheric Environments
The Sentinel’s environments are as surreal and otherworldly as its gameplay. The 3D landscape is rendered in a distinctive and minimalist style, with rolling hills, deep valleys, and floating energy orbs creating a sense of depth and immersion.
The game’s soundtrack, composed by Rob Hubbard, perfectly complements the surreal atmosphere. The haunting and ethereal melodies add to the sense of tension and isolation, creating a truly unforgettable gaming experience.
Legacy and Influence
The Sentinel has left a lasting legacy in the gaming world. Its unique blend of strategy, survival, and surrealism has inspired countless other games, including the likes of Deus Ex and Dark Souls. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and its challenging gameplay have also earned it a place in gaming history.
Conclusion
The Sentinel (1986) is a true masterpiece of gaming, a surreal and challenging adventure that continues to captivate players to this day. Its innovative gameplay, atmospheric environments, and haunting soundtrack combine to create an experience that is both unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to retro classics, The Sentinel is a must-play for anyone who appreciates the art of game design.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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