Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Canvas Software
- Publishers: GO!
Wizard Warz (1987)
Wizard Warz is a multiplayer dungeon crawl game developed and published by Incentive Software for the ZX Spectrum in 1987. It was one of the first games to feature online multiplayer gameplay, and it remains a popular classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Gameplay
Wizard Warz is a turn-based game in which players control a wizard exploring a dungeon. The goal of the game is to be the last wizard standing. Players can move their wizards around the dungeon, cast spells, and attack other wizards.
The game features a variety of spells, each with its own unique effects. Some spells can be used to attack other wizards, while others can be used to heal or protect oneself. Players must carefully manage their spellcasting, as each spell costs mana to cast.
In addition to spells, players can also collect items that can be used to improve their wizard’s abilities. Items can be found scattered throughout the dungeon, or they can be purchased from the game’s shop.
Multiplayer
Wizard Warz was one of the first games to feature online multiplayer gameplay. Players could connect to each other over a modem or null modem cable, and then battle each other in the dungeon.
The multiplayer mode of Wizard Warz is fast-paced and chaotic, and it can be a lot of fun to play with friends. However, it is important to note that the online multiplayer mode is no longer supported, so players will need to use a third-party service to connect to each other.
Graphics and sound
The graphics in Wizard Warz are simple but effective. The game uses a top-down perspective, and the dungeon is represented by a series of ASCII characters. The wizards are represented by small sprites, and the spells are represented by simple animations.
The sound in Wizard Warz is also simple, but it is effective in creating a tense and atmospheric environment. The game features a variety of sound effects, such as the sound of spells being cast and the sound of wizards being hit by attacks.
Reception
Wizard Warz was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative multiplayer gameplay, its addictive gameplay, and its charming graphics and sound. Wizard Warz was also one of the first games to be inducted into the ZX Spectrum Hall of Fame.
Legacy
Wizard Warz is considered to be one of the most important games in the history of video games. It was one of the first games to feature online multiplayer gameplay, and it helped to popularize the dungeon crawl genre. Wizard Warz has also been cited as an influence on a number of other games, including Diablo and World of Warcraft.
Conclusion
Wizard Warz is a classic ZX Spectrum game that is still a lot of fun to play today. It is a simple but addictive multiplayer game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. If you are a fan of retro gaming, then you should definitely check out Wizard Warz.
Tips for playing Wizard Warz
- Learn the spells. Each spell in Wizard Warz has its own unique effects, so it is important to learn what each spell does before you use it.
- Manage your mana carefully. Each spell costs mana to cast, so you need to be careful not to run out of mana.
- Explore the dungeon. The dungeon in Wizard Warz is full of secrets, so be sure to explore every nook and cranny.
- Be careful of other wizards. Other wizards can be your biggest threat, so be careful not to get too close to them.
- Have fun! Wizard Warz is a game that is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t take it too seriously. Just relax and have fun.
Review Score
7.5/10
