Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Adventure, Platform
- Platforms: Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Ultimate Play the Game
- Publishers: Ultimate Play the Game
Underwurlde: A Classic ZX Spectrum Platformer
Underwurlde is a 2D side-scrolling platform game developed and published by Ultimate Play the Game in 1984. It is the second game in the Sabreman series, following on from his adventures in Sabre Wulf. The game was released on the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Commodore 64 home computers.
The player controls Sabreman, who must escape from the titular Underwurlde via one of three exits, leading to either Knight Lore, Pentagram, or Mire Mare. The game is known for its challenging difficulty, innovative graphics, and atmospheric sound.
Gameplay
Underwurlde is a side-scrolling platform game in which the player controls Sabreman as he explores the Underwurlde, a series of underground caverns and tunnels. The game is played from a third-person perspective, and Sabreman can move left and right, jump, and climb ladders.
The player must guide Sabreman through the Underwurlde, avoiding enemies and obstacles, and collecting keys to open doors. The game features a variety of enemies, including bats, spiders, snakes, and ghosts. Sabreman can defeat enemies by jumping on them or throwing rocks at them.
The game also features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress. For example, the player may need to find a key to open a door, or find a way to cross a chasm.
Graphics and Sound
Underwurlde is known for its innovative graphics. The game uses a technique called “flip-screen scrolling,” which allows the game to create large, scrolling levels without any noticeable slowdown. The game also features a variety of detailed and colorful backgrounds, which help to create a sense of atmosphere.
The game’s sound is also noteworthy. The game features a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack, which helps to create a sense of suspense and danger.
Reception
Underwurlde was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, innovative graphics, and atmospheric sound. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.
Underwurlde has been cited as one of the greatest video games of all time. The game was ranked number 12 in the “Your Sinclair Official Top 100 Games of All Time” list in 1991. The game was also included in the book “1001 Video Games You Must Play Before You Die.”
Legacy
Underwurlde is a classic ZX Spectrum platformer that still holds up today. The game’s challenging gameplay, innovative graphics, and atmospheric sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
The game has also had a major impact on the video game industry. Underwurlde’s flip-screen scrolling technique was later used in a number of other games, including Super Mario Bros. 3 and Sonic the Hedgehog. The game’s atmospheric sound also helped to set the standard for future platformers.
Underwurlde is a true classic of the video game industry. The game’s challenging gameplay, innovative graphics, and atmospheric sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
