Summary
- Release Year: 1999
- Genres: Quiz/Trivia
- Platforms: Dreamcast, Game Boy Advance, iOS, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation
- Developers: Capcom, Hothouse Creations, Jellyvision
- Publishers: Capcom, Disney Interactive, Eidos Interactive
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (1999): A Virtual Journey to Riches
Introduction
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, based on the hit TV quiz show of the same name, is a thrilling video game that brings the excitement and tension of the show into the comfort of your own home. Released in 1999, the game allows players to experience the thrill of answering trivia questions and potentially winning a virtual fortune of one million pounds.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire closely mirrors that of the TV show. Players are presented with a series of multiple-choice questions, each with four possible answers. Players must correctly answer all 15 questions in order to win the grand prize.
Along the way, players can utilize three lifelines:
- 50:50: Removes two incorrect answers, leaving the player with a 50% chance of guessing correctly.
- Phone-a-Friend: Allows the player to call a friend or family member for assistance.
- Ask the Audience: Polls the virtual audience for their opinion on the correct answer.
Features
- Authentic TV Show Experience: The game features audio clips of the TV show’s host, Chris Tarrant, providing questions, answers, and his signature catchphrases.
- Localized Versions: In addition to the UK version hosted by Chris Tarrant, the game was released in various localized versions with different hosts and questions tailored to each country.
- Multiple Difficulty Levels: The game offers multiple difficulty levels, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the challenge.
- In-Game Encyclopedia: Players can access an in-game encyclopedia for assistance with difficult questions.
Critical Reception
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire received generally positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised the game’s faithful recreation of the TV show experience, its challenging gameplay, and its replayability value.
- IGN: “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire is a great game that captures the excitement and tension of the TV show. It’s a must-play for fans of trivia and game shows.” (8.5/10)
- GameSpot: “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire is a solid game that provides a fun and challenging trivia experience. It’s a great way to test your knowledge and see if you have what it takes to win a million virtual pounds.” (7.5/10)
- Eurogamer: “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire is a well-made game that is sure to please fans of the TV show. It’s a great way to test your trivia skills and have some fun in the process.” (7/10)
Legacy
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire has become a beloved video game classic, enjoyed by trivia enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. The game’s success has led to multiple sequels and spin-offs, including Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: Second Edition (2000), Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: 3rd Edition (2002), and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: Junior Edition (2003).
The game has also been credited with popularizing trivia games on video game consoles and PCs. Its success paved the way for other trivia games, such as Trivial Pursuit, Buzz!, and Jeopardy!.
Tips for Playing
If you’re looking to increase your chances of winning big in Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, here are a few tips:
- Study up on trivia: The more knowledge you have, the better your chances of answering the questions correctly.
- Use your lifelines wisely: Don’t be afraid to use your lifelines when you need them. They can be a valuable asset in helping you to eliminate incorrect answers.
- Trust your gut: Sometimes, the best answer is the one that you first think of. Don’t overthink it and go with your instincts.
- Don’t be afraid to walk away: If you’re not confident in your answer, it’s better to walk away and keep your winnings than to risk losing everything.
Conclusion
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (1999) is a timeless trivia game that offers an exciting and challenging experience for players of all ages. Whether you’re a trivia buff or just looking for a fun and engaging game to play, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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