Platform: Acorn Archimedes

The Guild of Thieves (1987)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

The Guild of Thieves (1987): A Masterpiece of Interactive Fiction

Magnetic Scrolls’ The Guild of Thieves, released in 1987, is widely regarded as a masterpiece of interactive fiction. Set in the vibrant fantasy world of Kerovnia, the game immerses players in a thrilling heist adventure filled with intrigue, danger, and wry humor.

Gameplay and Story

The player takes on the role of an aspiring member of the infamous Guild of Thieves, tasked with infiltrating an island castle and stealing all the valuables within its walls. The game’s open-ended, non-linear structure allows players to approach the mission in their own unique way, exploring the castle’s many rooms and interacting with its inhabitants.

The Guild of Thieves features a rich and detailed world, brought to life through Magnetic Scrolls’ signature blend of evocative prose and stunning visuals. Players will encounter a cast of colorful characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. The game’s puzzles are cleverly designed, requiring players to think laterally and make use of the items they find scattered throughout the castle.

Technical Innovations

The Guild of Thieves pushed the boundaries of interactive fiction technology at the time of its release. The game’s use of 30 hand-drawn illustrations, created by renowned fantasy artist Bob Wakelin, set a new standard for visual presentation in text adventures. The game also included a number of innovative features, such as a dice-rolling system for resolving actions and a faux newsletter from the Guild of Thieves providing hints and backstory.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, The Guild of Thieves received widespread critical acclaim for its immersive gameplay, atmospheric setting, and innovative design. The game won numerous awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Adventure Game in 1988.

The Guild of Thieves has had a lasting impact on the interactive fiction genre. Its influence can be seen in countless subsequent games, including the popular Zork series and the modern classic, The Stanley Parable. The game is also credited with helping to popularize the use of illustrations in text adventures, enhancing the player’s immersion and connection to the game world.

Modern Accessibility

While The Guild of Thieves was originally released for the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Amstrad CPC, it has since been ported to a variety of modern platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. This has allowed a new generation of gamers to experience this classic adventure.

Conclusion

The Guild of Thieves (1987) remains a timeless masterpiece of interactive fiction, offering players a thrilling heist adventure set in a richly detailed fantasy world. Its innovative design, atmospheric setting, and wry humor have ensured its place among the greatest video games of all time. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the genre or a newcomer to interactive fiction, The Guild of Thieves is an essential experience that will captivate and entertain you from beginning to end.

Review Score

9/10

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Blood Sport

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Blood Sport: A Retro Classic That Still Packs a Punch

Released in 1988, Blood Sport is a classic arcade fighting game that was developed and published by Capcom. It was one of the first fighting games to feature digitized sprites, which gave the characters a more realistic appearance than the pixelated sprites used in earlier games. Blood Sport was also one of the first fighting games to feature a variety of special moves, which added to the game’s depth and strategy.

The game’s story is simple: eight fighters from around the world are invited to participate in a martial arts tournament called the “Blood Sport.” The winner of the tournament will be awarded a large cash prize, as well as the title of “World’s Greatest Fighter.”

The eight fighters in Blood Sport are:

  • Akira Yuki: A Japanese karate expert.
  • Chun-Li: A Chinese martial artist who specializes in Wing Chun.
  • Guile: An American soldier who is skilled in boxing and wrestling.
  • Honda: A Japanese sumo wrestler.
  • Ken Masters: An American martial artist who is skilled in karate and Muay Thai.
  • Ryu: A Japanese martial artist who is skilled in karate and Ansatsuken.
  • Sagat: A Thai boxer who is the reigning champion of the Blood Sport tournament.
  • Zangief: A Russian wrestler who is known for his immense strength.

The gameplay in Blood Sport is similar to other fighting games of the era. Players control their character from a side-scrolling perspective and must use a combination of punches, kicks, and special moves to defeat their opponent. Blood Sport was one of the first fighting games to feature a variety of special moves, which added to the game’s depth and strategy.

One of the things that made Blood Sport stand out from other fighting games of the era was its use of digitized sprites. This gave the characters a more realistic appearance than the pixelated sprites used in earlier games. The graphics in Blood Sport are still impressive today, and they helped to make the game a classic.

Blood Sport was a critical and commercial success. It was one of the most popular arcade games of 1988, and it was ported to a variety of home consoles. The game has been praised for its graphics, gameplay, and depth. It is considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time.

Legacy

Blood Sport has had a lasting impact on the fighting game genre. It was one of the first fighting games to feature digitized sprites, a variety of special moves, and a deep and strategic gameplay system. Blood Sport helped to set the standard for future fighting games, and it is still considered to be one of the best fighting games of all time.

The game has been ported to a variety of home consoles, and it has been included in several compilations of classic arcade games. Blood Sport is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains one of the most popular fighting games of all time.

Conclusion

Blood Sport is a classic arcade fighting game that still packs a punch. It was one of the first fighting games to feature digitized sprites, a variety of special moves, and a deep and strategic gameplay system. Blood Sport helped to set the standard for future fighting games, and it is still considered to be one of the best fighting games of all time. If you’re a fan of fighting games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Blood Sport.

Review Score

8/10

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Ravenskull (1986)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Ravenskull: A Top-Down Action Puzzle Classic

Released in 1986, Ravenskull is a top-down action puzzle game that tasks players with collecting treasure pieces from the Castle Ravenskull in order to defend their village. The game was developed by Software Projects and published by Mastertronic for the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Acorn Electron.

Ravenskull is set in a medieval fantasy world, and the player takes on the role of a brave adventurer who must venture into the Castle Ravenskull to retrieve the treasure pieces. The castle is a dangerous place, filled with traps, puzzles, and monsters. The player must use their wits and agility to overcome these challenges and collect the treasure pieces.

The gameplay in Ravenskull is simple yet addictive. The player character can move around the screen, jump, and use a sword to attack enemies. The player must use their environment to their advantage, using objects such as rocks and barrels to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

One of the unique features of Ravenskull is the use of speed scrolls. When the player uses a speed scroll, their character moves much faster. This can be used to quickly traverse the castle and avoid enemies, or to solve puzzles that require quick reflexes.

Ravenskull was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, clever puzzles, and charming graphics. Ravenskull is still considered one of the best action puzzle games of all time, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.

Gameplay

The goal of Ravenskull is to collect all of the treasure pieces from the Castle Ravenskull and return them to your village. The treasure pieces are scattered throughout the castle, and you must use your wits and agility to find them.

The castle is a dangerous place, filled with traps, puzzles, and monsters. You must use your environment to your advantage, using objects such as rocks and barrels to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

One of the unique features of Ravenskull is the use of speed scrolls. When you use a speed scroll, your character moves much faster. This can be used to quickly traverse the castle and avoid enemies, or to solve puzzles that require quick reflexes.

Graphics and Sound

Ravenskull’s graphics are simple but effective. The game’s top-down perspective gives players a clear view of the action, and the colorful sprites are easy to distinguish. The game’s soundtrack is also well-composed, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and excitement.

Critical Reception

Ravenskull was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, clever puzzles, and charming graphics. Ravenskull is still considered one of the best action puzzle games of all time, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers today.

Legacy

Ravenskull has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative use of speed scrolls has been imitated by many other games, and its challenging gameplay and clever puzzles have inspired a generation of game designers. Ravenskull is a true classic of the action puzzle genre, and it remains a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Tips for Playing Ravenskull

Here are a few tips for playing Ravenskull:

  • Use your environment to your advantage. Objects such as rocks and barrels can be used to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
  • Be careful when using speed scrolls. Speed scrolls can be helpful for quickly traversing the castle and avoiding enemies, but they can also make it difficult to control your character.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to solve the puzzles in Ravenskull. Try different approaches until you find one that works for you.
  • Have fun! Ravenskull is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun. Don’t get discouraged if you get stuck, and enjoy the experience of exploring the Castle Ravenskull.

Conclusion

Ravenskull is a classic action puzzle game that has stood the test of time. The game’s challenging gameplay, clever puzzles, and charming graphics have made it a favorite of retro gamers for over 30 years. If you’re a fan of action puzzle games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Ravenskull.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Cartoon Line: Part One

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Cartoon Line: Part One: A Colorful and Addictive Puzzle Game

Cartoon Line: Part One is a hyper-casual puzzle game developed by Nevosoft and published by Alawar Entertainment. It was released on PC in 2006 and has since been ported to mobile devices. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it offers a variety of challenges to keep players entertained for hours on end.

Gameplay

The objective of Cartoon Line: Part One is to connect all of the colored lines on the screen. Lines can be connected horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, but they cannot cross over each other. The game starts with a few simple levels, but the difficulty quickly ramps up as new obstacles are introduced. These obstacles include bombs, which explode when they are connected to a line, and barriers, which block the path of lines.

Levels

Cartoon Line: Part One features over 100 levels, each with its own unique challenge. The levels are divided into four different worlds, each with its own theme. The first world is a grassy meadow, the second world is a desert, the third world is an icy wasteland, and the fourth world is a volcano.

Power-Ups

In addition to the main levels, Cartoon Line: Part One also features a number of bonus levels and power-ups. Bonus levels are unlocked by completing certain challenges, and they offer players the chance to earn extra points and rewards. Power-ups can be collected during gameplay, and they can be used to help players overcome obstacles and complete levels more quickly.

Graphics and Sound

Cartoon Line: Part One features colorful and vibrant graphics that are sure to appeal to players of all ages. The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and upbeat, and it helps to create a fun and inviting atmosphere.

Replayability

Cartoon Line: Part One is a highly replayable game. The levels are challenging but fair, and there is always something new to discover. The game also features a number of different modes, including a time attack mode and a puzzle mode. This gives players the opportunity to replay levels in different ways and to challenge themselves to improve their scores.

Overall

Cartoon Line: Part One is a fun and addictive puzzle game that will keep you entertained for hours on end. The gameplay is simple to learn but difficult to master, and the levels are well-designed and offer a variety of challenges. The game’s colorful graphics and catchy soundtrack also help to create a fun and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of puzzle games or just looking for a fun and challenging way to spend your time, Cartoon Line: Part One is definitely worth checking out.

Tips for Playing Cartoon Line: Part One

  • Plan your moves carefully. Before you start connecting lines, take a moment to look at the level and plan your moves. This will help you avoid making mistakes and wasting time.
  • Use power-ups wisely. Power-ups can be a big help in completing levels, but it’s important to use them wisely. Save your power-ups for when you really need them, such as when you’re stuck on a particularly difficult level.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to complete each level in Cartoon Line: Part One. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies to find the one that works best for you.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Cartoon Line: Part One, the better you’ll become at it. So don’t get discouraged if you can’t complete a level on your first try. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get it.

Review Score

7/10

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Hostages (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Hostages (1988)

Hostages is a top-down shooter game developed and published by Konami for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The game was released in Japan in 1988 and in North America and Europe in 1989.

In Hostages, the player controls a team of three soldiers as they attempt to rescue hostages from a terrorist-held embassy. The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player can move their soldiers around the embassy, shooting terrorists and rescuing hostages.

The game features a variety of different weapons and items that the player can use to complete their mission. These include guns, grenades, and medkits. The player can also use the environment to their advantage, such as by taking cover behind objects or using hostages as human shields.

Hostages was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered one of the best NES games ever made. The game was praised for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and innovative use of the NES hardware.

Gameplay

Hostages is a top-down shooter game in which the player controls a team of three soldiers as they attempt to rescue hostages from a terrorist-held embassy. The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player can move their soldiers around the embassy, shooting terrorists and rescuing hostages.

The game features a variety of different weapons and items that the player can use to complete their mission. These include guns, grenades, and medkits. The player can also use the environment to their advantage, such as by taking cover behind objects or using hostages as human shields.

The game is divided into a series of missions, each of which has a different objective. The player must complete the objectives of each mission in order to progress to the next one. The objectives of the missions vary, but they typically involve rescuing hostages, defeating terrorists, and planting bombs.

The game features a variety of different enemies, including terrorists, guards, and dogs. The player must use their weapons and skills to defeat the enemies and complete their mission.

Development

Hostages was developed by Konami, a Japanese video game company. The game was directed by Hideo Kojima, who would later go on to create the Metal Gear Solid series.

Hostages was one of the first NES games to use a top-down perspective. The game’s developers were inspired by the arcade game Commando, which also used a top-down perspective.

Hostages was also one of the first NES games to feature a variety of different weapons and items. The game’s developers wanted to give the player a variety of options to complete their mission.

Reception

Hostages was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and innovative use of the NES hardware.

Hostages was one of the best-selling NES games of 1989. The game was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year from Nintendo Power magazine.

Hostages is still considered one of the best NES games ever made. The game is a classic example of the top-down shooter genre, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Legacy

Hostages has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s top-down perspective and variety of weapons and items have been used in many other games, including the Metal Gear Solid series.

Hostages is also a popular game among speedrunners. Speedrunners attempt to complete the game as quickly as possible, and they have developed a variety of techniques to do so.

Hostages is a classic NES game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and innovative use of the NES hardware make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

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Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe (1990)

Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe is a futuristic sports game developed by The Bitmap Brothers and published by Accolade in 1990. It is the sequel to the 1988 game Speedball. Speedball 2 is a fast-paced, violent game that combines elements of football, handball, and ice hockey.

The game is played on a steel-walled pitch with two goals at either end. Two teams of five players compete to score goals by hitting a ball into the opposing team’s goal. Players can use their fists, feet, or weapons to hit the ball. They can also tackle opponents to prevent them from getting to the ball.

Speedball 2 is known for its brutal gameplay. Players can be injured or even killed during matches. The game also features a number of weapons that can be used to attack opponents. These weapons include chainsaws, flamethrowers, and rocket launchers.

Despite its violence, Speedball 2 is a very popular game. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, innovative graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode. Speedball 2 has been ported to a number of different platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and PC.

Gameplay

Speedball 2 is played from a top-down perspective. The player controls one of the five players on their team. The objective of the game is to score more goals than the opposing team.

Players can use their fists, feet, or weapons to hit the ball. They can also tackle opponents to prevent them from getting to the ball. The ball can be passed between teammates or shot at the goal.

Players can be injured or even killed during matches. If a player is injured, they will be taken off the field for a period of time. If a player is killed, they will be replaced by a new player.

Speedball 2 features a number of different weapons that can be used to attack opponents. These weapons include chainsaws, flamethrowers, and rocket launchers. Weapons can be picked up from the ground or from defeated opponents.

Teams

There are 16 different teams in Speedball 2. Each team has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Some teams are more擅长于进攻， while others are better at defense.

The player can choose to play as any of the 16 teams. The teams are:

  • Brutal Deluxe
  • England
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Russia
  • Scotland
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United States
  • Wales

Multiplayer

Speedball 2 features a two-player multiplayer mode. In multiplayer mode, two players can compete against each other on the same screen.

Multiplayer mode is a great way to experience the fast-paced gameplay of Speedball 2. It is also a lot of fun to compete against a friend or family member.

Legacy

Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe is considered to be one of the best sports games ever made. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, innovative graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode.

Speedball 2 has been ported to a number of different platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and PC. It has also been released on a number of compilation albums.

Speedball 2 is still enjoyed by many gamers today. It is a classic game that is still a lot of fun to play.

Tips for playing Speedball 2

Here are a few tips for playing Speedball 2:

  • Use the walls to your advantage. The walls can be used to bounce the ball around and create scoring opportunities.
  • Don’t be afraid to use weapons. Weapons can be very effective in Speedball 2. Use them to attack opponents and score goals.
  • Pass the ball to your teammates. Passing the ball is a great way to create scoring opportunities.
  • Play as a team. Speedball 2 is a team game. Work together with your teammates to score goals and win matches.

Conclusion

Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe is a classic sports game that is still a lot of fun to play today. It is a fast-paced, violent game that combines elements of football, handball, and ice hockey. With its innovative graphics, addictive multiplayer mode, and brutal gameplay, Speedball 2 is a must-play for any fan of sports games.

Review Score

9/10

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James Pond: Underwater Agent (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

James Pond: Underwater Agent (1990): A Splash-tastic Adventure

Dive into the thrilling underwater world of James Pond: Underwater Agent, a beloved platformer released in 1990 that captured the hearts of gamers with its charming humor, challenging gameplay, and a protagonist who is both suave and slimy.

The World of James Pond

James Pond is no ordinary mudskipper. After a chance encounter with a radioactive isotope, this amphibious fish developed human-like intelligence and a penchant for espionage. Recruited by the British Secret Service, James Pond became the world’s first underwater agent, tasked with protecting the seas from the nefarious Dr. Maybe and his evil Acme Oil Co.

Acme Oil Co. is polluting the oceans with toxic waste and threatening the world with their sinister plans. James Pond must use his wits, gadgets, and aquatic agility to infiltrate Dr. Maybe’s underwater lair and put an end to his reign of terror.

Gameplay: A Thrilling Underwater Adventure

James Pond: Underwater Agent is a side-scrolling platformer that offers a diverse range of challenging levels. Each level is themed after a classic James Bond movie, with titles like “License to Bubble” and “From Three Mile Island with Love.”

As James Pond, players navigate through underwater caverns, sunken ships, and enemy-infested waters. Along the way, they collect power-ups, dodge obstacles, and defeat a variety of aquatic foes, including mutant fish, jellyfish, and even sharks.

James Pond is equipped with a trusty peashooter and a limited supply of oxygen. He can also perform a variety of acrobatic moves, such as swimming, jumping, and clinging to walls. These abilities are essential for overcoming the game’s many challenges and reaching the end of each level.

Humor and Charm: A Bond Parody with a Splash

One of the defining features of James Pond: Underwater Agent is its witty humor and charmingly British sense of style. The game is filled with tongue-in-cheek references to James Bond movies, from the level titles to the character’s suave demeanor.

James Pond himself is a charismatic and lovable protagonist. His witty one-liners and interactions with the game’s supporting cast add a touch of lightheartedness to the otherwise perilous underwater adventure.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, James Pond: Underwater Agent was met with critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the game’s charming graphics, challenging gameplay, and unique underwater setting. The game was a commercial success, selling over a million copies worldwide.

James Pond’s popularity led to the development of two sequels, James Pond 2: Codename RoboCod and James Pond 3: Operation Starfish, as well as a spin-off game called Super James Pond. The character also appeared in a series of comic books and merchandise.

Conclusion: A Classic Platforming Adventure

James Pond: Underwater Agent remains a beloved classic in the platforming genre. Its charming humor, challenging gameplay, and memorable protagonist have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the underwater world of James Pond, this game is sure to provide hours of splash-tastic entertainment.

So dive in, experience the thrilling adventures of James Pond: Underwater Agent, and see why this game has captured the hearts of gamers for over three decades.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Elite (1984)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Elite (1984): The Game That Changed Space Sims Forever

Elite is a space trading and combat simulator video game developed and released by Acornsoft in 1984 for the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron home computers. It was one of the first home computer games to use 3D graphics, and its open-ended gameplay and revolutionary graphics led to it being ported to virtually every contemporary home computer system. Elite is considered a classic and a genre maker in gaming history.

Gameplay

Elite is set in a procedurally generated galaxy of 256 star systems, each with its own unique planets, moons, and space stations. The player takes on the role of a freelance spaceship pilot and trader, and must navigate the galaxy, trade goods, fight pirates, and complete missions in order to earn money and upgrade their ship.

The game’s most innovative feature was its use of wire-frame 3D graphics with hidden line removal. This allowed Elite to create a realistic and immersive sense of space, and it was a major breakthrough in home computer graphics at the time.

Elite’s gameplay is open-ended, and players are free to explore the galaxy and pursue their own goals. They can trade goods between star systems, take on missions from space stations, or simply explore the galaxy and discover new planets and moons.

Development

Elite was developed by David Braben and Ian Bell, two Cambridge University students who were fascinated by space and science fiction. They began working on the game in 1982, and it took them two years to complete.

Braben and Bell were inspired by the 1974 game Star Trader, but they wanted to create a game that was more visually immersive and had more depth and complexity. They also wanted to create a game that was open-ended and allowed players to explore and trade at their own pace.

Release and Reception

Elite was released in September 1984 and was an instant success. It was praised for its groundbreaking graphics, open-ended gameplay, and addictive action. Elite was ported to virtually every contemporary home computer system, and it sold over a million copies worldwide.

Elite was also a critical success, winning numerous awards and accolades. It was named the “Game of the Year” by several publications, and it is still considered one of the greatest video games of all time.

Legacy

Elite has had a profound impact on the video game industry. It is considered one of the first true space sims, and it helped to popularize the genre. Elite also helped to advance the state of home computer graphics, and it paved the way for future 3D games.

Elite has been followed by several sequels and spin-offs, including Frontier: Elite II (1993), Elite Dangerous (2014), and Elite Dangerous: Odyssey (2021). The Elite series is still going strong today, and it remains one of the most popular and influential space sims of all time.

Conclusion

Elite (1984) is a classic video game that revolutionized the space sim genre. Its open-ended gameplay, groundbreaking graphics, and addictive action made it an instant success, and it remains one of the most popular and influential video games of all time. If you’re a fan of space sims or gaming history, then you owe it to yourself to check out Elite (1984).

Review Score

9/10

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ArcPinball (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 3 minutes read

Summary

ArcPinball (1990): A Classic Pinball Experience

Introduction

Step into the vibrant world of ArcPinball, a pinball simulation game released in 1990 by Shibumi Soft. This classic title offers a realistic and engaging pinball experience, complete with stunning graphics, challenging gameplay, and an array of exciting tables.

Gameplay

ArcPinball features three unique pinball tables, each with its own distinct layout, obstacles, and scoring opportunities. The tables are:

  • Cosmic Pinball: A futuristic table with a space theme, featuring ramps, rollovers, and a variety of targets.
  • Western Pinball: A Western-themed table with a saloon, swinging doors, and a train that circles the table.
  • Fantasy Pinball: A fantasy-themed table with a castle, moat, and dragon that breathes fire.

Players control a pinball launcher at the bottom of the table, using it to shoot the pinball into play. The pinball bounces around the table, hitting bumpers, rollovers, and targets to score points. Players can also use flippers to keep the pinball in play and aim for specific targets.

Features

ArcPinball offers a number of features that enhance the gameplay experience:

  • Realistic Physics: The game’s physics engine simulates the movement of the pinball with great accuracy, providing a realistic and challenging experience.
  • Multiple Tables: With three unique tables to choose from, players can enjoy a variety of pinball experiences.
  • High Scores: The game keeps track of high scores for each table, allowing players to compete with friends and family.
  • Sound Effects: The game features realistic sound effects that add to the immersive experience.

Graphics

For a game released in 1990, ArcPinball’s graphics are impressive. The tables are rendered in vibrant colors and feature detailed artwork. The pinball and other objects are also well-drawn and animated.

Legacy

ArcPinball was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and challenging difficulty. The game has since been ported to a number of platforms, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Genesis, and mobile devices.

ArcPinball is considered one of the best pinball simulation games ever made. It set a high standard for future pinball games and continues to be enjoyed by pinball enthusiasts today.

Conclusion

ArcPinball is a classic pinball experience that offers challenging gameplay, stunning graphics, and a variety of exciting tables. Whether you’re a pinball aficionado or a casual gamer, ArcPinball is a must-play title. So grab your flippers and get ready for some pinball action!

Review Score

8/10

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Jinxter (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Jinxter: An Absurd and Enchanting Adventure Through a World of Misfortune

Released in 1987, Jinxter is a point-and-click adventure game that stands out from the crowd with its unique blend of humor, absurdity, and surprisingly poignant storytelling. Players take on the role of a hapless protagonist who finds himself trapped in a jinxed land where everything that can go wrong, does.

A World of Misfortune and Absurdity

From the moment the protagonist is run over by a bus in the opening cutscene, it’s clear that Jinxter is not your average adventure game. The world is filled with bizarre and often hilarious misfortunes, from being sprayed with cheese sandwiches by supernatural beings to being folded, spindled, and mutilated by unseen forces.

But beneath the absurdity lies a surprisingly cohesive and well-crafted game world. The jinxed land is a strange and wonderful place, filled with quirky characters and surreal landscapes. Players will encounter talking animals, mischievous sprites, and even the Grim Reaper himself.

A Race Against Time and Chance

As the protagonist navigates this treacherous world, he finds himself on a quest to restore good fortune to the land. But time is running out, as the impending death of good fortune threatens to plunge the world into eternal darkness.

Along the way, the protagonist must solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and make choices that will affect the outcome of his quest. The game features multiple endings, depending on the player’s actions.

Infuriating, Enchanting, and Absurd

Jinxter is a game that defies easy categorization. It’s at once infuriating, enchanting, and absurd. The puzzles can be challenging, and the misfortunes can be downright frustrating. But the game’s unique sense of humor and quirky charm make it an unforgettable experience.

The game’s graphics, while simple by today’s standards, have a timeless quality to them. The character designs are expressive and memorable, and the backgrounds are filled with intricate details. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of whimsical and suspenseful melodies.

A Classic Adventure Game with a Unique Twist

Overall, Jinxter is a classic adventure game with a unique twist. Its blend of humor, absurdity, and poignancy make it a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your mind and make you laugh out loud, then Jinxter is definitely worth checking out.

Tips for Playing Jinxter

  • Be patient. Jinxter is a challenging game, and there will be times when you get stuck. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different solutions.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings. The game world is filled with clues and hidden objects. Take your time to explore and interact with everything you can.
  • Don’t be afraid to die. Death is a common occurrence in Jinxter. But don’t worry, you’ll just respawn at the last checkpoint.
  • Have a sense of humor. Jinxter is a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Embrace the absurdity and enjoy the ride.

Legacy and Impact

Jinxter was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, unique sense of humor, and memorable characters. The game has since been ported to a variety of platforms, and it remains a cult classic among adventure game fans.

Jinxter has also had a significant impact on the adventure game genre. Its unique blend of humor and absurdity has inspired many other games, including the Monkey Island series and Day of the Tentacle.

Conclusion

Jinxter is a truly unique and unforgettable adventure game. Its blend of humor, absurdity, and poignancy make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your mind and make you laugh out loud, then Jinxter is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8/10

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