Summary
- Release Year: 1983
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Simulator, Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: Apple II, Atari 8-bit, DOS
- Developers: Omnitrend Software, Inc.
- Publishers: Omnitrend Software, Inc.
Universe (1983)
Universe is a space exploration game released in 1983 by Datasoft. It was one of the first games to feature a fully 3D universe that the player could explore freely. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered one of the best space exploration games ever made.
Gameplay
Universe is set in a procedurally generated galaxy that is billions of light-years across. The player controls a spaceship that can travel anywhere in the galaxy. The player can explore planets, moons, and other celestial objects. They can also encounter alien spacecraft and engage in combat.
The game’s universe is incredibly detailed and realistic. Each planet has its own unique environment and inhabitants. The player can land on planets and explore them on foot. They can also collect resources and build bases.
Universe’s combat system is simple but effective. The player’s spaceship can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player can also use their spaceship’s shields and engines to defend themselves from enemy attacks.
Reception
Universe was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and realistic universe. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.
Universe has been included in several lists of the best video games of all time. In 2008, IGN ranked Universe as the 21st best video game of all time. In 2012, GamesRadar ranked Universe as the 12th best video game of all time.
Legacy
Universe has had a major impact on the video game industry. It was one of the first games to feature a fully 3D universe that the player could explore freely. It also helped to popularize the space exploration genre.
Universe has been cited as an inspiration for many other video games, including Elite, Star Wars: X-Wing, and No Man’s Sky.
Conclusion
Universe is a classic space exploration game that still holds up today. It is a must-play for any fan of the genre. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and realistic universe make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Additional Information
- Universe was developed by a team of four programmers: Bill Budge, John Van Ryzin, Chris Crawford, and Dan Bunten.
- The game was originally released for the Apple II computer. It was later ported to the Commodore 64, Atari 8-bit family, and IBM PC.
- Universe was one of the first games to use procedural generation to create its universe. This allowed the game to generate a vast and varied universe that was different every time the player played.
- The game’s universe is so large that it would take over 100 years to travel from one end to the other at the speed of light.
- Universe was a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies. It was one of the best-selling games of 1983.
- Universe has been included in several lists of the best video games of all time. It is considered one of the most important and influential space exploration games ever made.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
