Platform: Acorn Electron

The Last Ninja (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

The Last Ninja: A Retrospective

Released in arcades in 1987, The Last Ninja quickly became a beloved classic among gamers. With its groundbreaking graphics, innovative gameplay, and challenging difficulty, The Last Ninja set a new standard for side-scrolling action games.

Story

The Last Ninja tells the story of a young ninja named Armakuni, the sole survivor of the Brotherhood of White Ninja, who has been tasked with avenging his fallen comrades and reclaiming the sacred scrolls of the Ninja from the evil Shogun Kunitoki.

Gameplay

The Last Ninja is a side-scrolling action game with a unique blend of martial arts combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Players control Armakuni as he fights his way through hordes of enemy ninjas, samurai, and other obstacles. Armakuni can perform a variety of punches, kicks, and special moves, and can also use weapons such as swords, shurikens, and grappling hooks.

One of the most innovative aspects of The Last Ninja is its use of a “ki” energy system. Armakuni can use his ki to perform special moves, such as fireballs and lightning bolts, and to heal himself. However, using ki too much can leave Armakuni vulnerable to attack.

The Last Ninja also features a variety of platforming and puzzle-solving elements. Armakuni must climb walls, jump over chasms, and solve puzzles in order to progress through the game. The game’s levels are filled with hidden secrets and power-ups, which can give Armakuni an edge in combat.

Graphics and Sound

The Last Ninja was one of the first arcade games to use digitized graphics, which gave the game a more realistic look than its contemporaries. The game’s backgrounds are lush and detailed, and the character sprites are fluidly animated. The Last Ninja’s soundtrack is also highly regarded, with its catchy melodies and atmospheric sound effects.

Legacy

The Last Ninja was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the ninja genre in video games. The game has been ported to numerous home platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice among retro gamers.

The Last Ninja has also been praised for its influence on later games, such as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game and the Shinobi series. The game’s unique blend of action, platforming, and puzzle-solving has served as a template for many other side-scrolling action games.

Conclusion

The Last Ninja is a classic arcade game that still holds up today. Its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and memorable soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming and action games in general.

Tips for Playing The Last Ninja

  • Master the ki system. Ki is essential for performing special moves and healing yourself. However, using ki too much can leave you vulnerable to attack. Learn to manage your ki carefully.
  • Use the environment to your advantage. The Last Ninja’s levels are filled with objects that can be used to your advantage. For example, you can use barrels to block enemy attacks, or you can use grappling hooks to reach high places.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. The Last Ninja’s levels are filled with hidden secrets and power-ups. Take your time to explore and find everything that the game has to offer.
  • Be patient. The Last Ninja is a challenging game. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually master the game.

The Last Ninja FAQ

Q: What is the best way to defeat the final boss, Shogun Kunitoki?

A: Kunitoki is a tough boss, but he can be defeated with the right strategy. First, focus on dodging his attacks and using your ki to heal yourself. Once you’ve whittled down his health, use your most powerful special moves to finish him off.

Q: How do I find all of the hidden secrets in The Last Ninja?

A: There are many hidden secrets in The Last Ninja, including extra lives, power-ups, and new weapons. To find them, you’ll need to explore every nook and cranny of the game’s levels. Look for hidden passages, breakable walls, and other suspicious objects.

Q: What are the best weapons in The Last Ninja?

A: The best weapons in The Last Ninja are the sword and the shurikens. The sword is a powerful melee weapon that can quickly dispatch enemies. The shurikens are a ranged weapon that can be used to attack enemies from a distance.

Q: Is there a sequel to The Last Ninja?

A: Yes, there is a sequel to The Last Ninja called The Last Ninja 2. The sequel was released in arcades in 1988 and on home platforms in 1989. The Last Ninja 2 features new levels, new enemies, and new weapons.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Voodoo Castle (1979)

by Nish
written by Nish 8 minutes read

Summary

Voodoo Castle (1979): A Text Adventure Classic

Voodoo Castle is a text adventure game released in 1979 for the TRS-80 and Apple II computers. It was developed by Scott Adams, who is also known for his other text adventure games, such as Adventureland and Colossal Cave Adventure.

Voodoo Castle is a dark and atmospheric game that puts you in the role of Count Cristo, a man who has been cursed by a voodoo priest. The curse has turned Cristo into a vampire, and he must now travel to the Voodoo Castle to lift the curse and save his soul.

The game is played using a two-word command parser. You can type in commands such as “get lamp” or “go north” to interact with the game world. Voodoo Castle is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The puzzles are logical, and there is always a way to progress if you think carefully.

One of the things that makes Voodoo Castle so special is its atmosphere. The game’s text descriptions are vivid and evocative, and they do a great job of creating a sense of place. You can almost feel the cold, damp air of the castle as you explore its dark corridors.

The game’s puzzles are also very well-designed. They are challenging, but they are not impossible. With a little bit of thought, you can always figure out how to progress.

Voodoo Castle is a classic text adventure game that is still enjoyed by many people today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will test your mind and immerse you in a world of mystery and danger.

Gameplay

Voodoo Castle is a text adventure game played using a two-word command parser. You can type in commands such as “get lamp” or “go north” to interact with the game world.

The game is set in a large castle that is filled with puzzles and dangers. You must explore the castle and find a way to lift the curse that has been placed on you.

Along the way, you will encounter a variety of challenges, including:

  • Puzzles: The castle is filled with puzzles that you must solve in order to progress. These puzzles can be challenging, but they are all fair and logical.
  • Traps: The castle is also filled with traps that can harm you if you are not careful. You must be aware of your surroundings and avoid these traps.
  • Enemies: There are also a number of enemies in the castle that will attack you if you get too close. You must be prepared to fight these enemies in order to survive.

Setting

Voodoo Castle is set in a large, dark castle that is located in a remote area. The castle is filled with puzzles and dangers, and it is home to a variety of creatures, including vampires, ghosts, and zombies.

The game’s atmosphere is dark and oppressive, and it does a great job of creating a sense of dread and suspense. You can almost feel the cold, damp air of the castle as you explore its dark corridors.

Characters

You play as Count Cristo, a man who has been cursed by a voodoo priest. The curse has turned Cristo into a vampire, and he must now travel to the Voodoo Castle to lift the curse and save his soul.

Along the way, you will meet a variety of other characters, including:

  • The Voodoo Priest: The Voodoo Priest is the one who cursed Cristo. He is a powerful sorcerer who lives in the Voodoo Castle.
  • The Vampire Queen: The Vampire Queen is the ruler of the vampires in the Voodoo Castle. She is a beautiful and dangerous woman who will stop at nothing to protect her castle.
  • The Zombie Butler: The Zombie Butler is a loyal servant of the Vampire Queen. He is a slow and clumsy creature, but he is also very strong.

Legacy

Voodoo Castle is a classic text adventure game that is still enjoyed by many people today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will test your mind and immerse you in a world of mystery and danger.

The game has been praised for its atmosphere, puzzles, and characters. It is considered to be one of the best text adventure games ever made.

Voodoo Castle has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the PC, Mac, and mobile devices. It is also available to play online.

If you are a fan of text adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Voodoo Castle. It is a classic game that is still enjoyable today.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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Jet Set Willy II (1985)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier – A Retro Masterpiece

In the annals of video gaming history, few games have captured the hearts and minds of players quite like Jet Set Willy. Released in 1984, this innovative platformer introduced gamers to the eccentric and accident-prone protagonist Willy, and his wacky mansion filled with bizarre puzzles and deadly traps. The game was a critical and commercial success, spawning numerous clones and sequels. One of the most notable sequels is Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier, released in 1985.

A Worthy Successor

Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier is a faithful successor to the original game, retaining its signature blend of platforming action, puzzle-solving, and slapstick humor. Players once again take control of Willy as he navigates a sprawling mansion filled with treacherous obstacles, including deadly traps, mischievous creatures, and mind-boggling puzzles.

One of the key improvements in Jet Set Willy II is its expanded level design. The game features over 50 unique levels, each with its own distinct challenges and secrets to discover. The levels are larger and more complex than in the original game, offering players a greater sense of exploration and discovery.

Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics

In addition to the expanded level design, Jet Set Willy II also introduces several new gameplay mechanics that enhance the overall experience. One of the most notable additions is the ability to collect and use items. Willy can now pick up objects such as keys, ropes, and bombs, and use them to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.

Another new feature is the inclusion of “warp zones.” These special areas allow Willy to instantly teleport to different parts of the mansion, making it easier to navigate the vast and complex levels.

Improved Graphics and Sound

Jet Set Willy II also boasts improved graphics and sound over its predecessor. The game’s visuals are more detailed and colorful, and the soundtrack is more varied and atmospheric. The overall presentation is more polished and professional, giving the game a more modern feel.

Critical and Commercial Reception

Upon its release, Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier was met with critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the game’s expanded level design, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and improved graphics and sound. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier is widely regarded as one of the best platformers of its era. The game’s innovative level design, challenging puzzles, and quirky humor have left a lasting impact on the genre. It has been cited as an inspiration for numerous subsequent platformers, including Super Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong Country.

The game’s legacy extends beyond its immediate impact on the platforming genre. Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier is also remembered for its cultural significance. The game’s protagonist, Willy, has become an iconic figure in British gaming culture, and the game itself is often seen as a symbol of the golden age of home computing.

Conclusion

Jet Set Willy II: The Final Frontier is a masterful platformer that stands as a worthy successor to the legendary original game. With its expanded level design, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and improved graphics and sound, Jet Set Willy II offers a challenging and rewarding experience that has stood the test of time. The game’s legacy as one of the best platformers of its era is secure, and it continues to be enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts to this day.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Manchester United Europe (1991)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Manchester United Europe (1991)

Manchester United Europe is a football video game developed by Krisalis Software and published by Virgin Games in 1991. The game was released on the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and DOS. It is the sequel to the 1990 game Manchester United.

Manchester United Europe is a top-down football game in which the player controls a team of Manchester United players. The player can either select their team and let the computer’s AI battle out each match, or take over control of the players and put the ball in the back of the net themselves.

The game features a variety of different modes, including a league mode, a cup mode, and a friendly match mode. The league mode sees the player’s team compete against other teams in a league format, while the cup mode sees the player’s team compete in a knockout tournament. The friendly match mode allows the player to play a one-off match against another team.

Manchester United Europe was well-received by critics upon release. The game was praised for its realistic gameplay, its detailed graphics, and its addictive nature. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Gameplay

Manchester United Europe is a top-down football game in which the player controls a team of Manchester United players. The player can either select their team and let the computer’s AI battle out each match, or take over control of the players and put the ball in the back of the net themselves.

The game features a variety of different controls, which allows the player to perform a wide range of moves, including passing, shooting, tackling, and heading. The player can also use the game’s tactics system to set up their team’s formation and playing style.

The game’s AI is challenging, even on the easiest difficulty setting. The computer-controlled teams will adapt their tactics to the player’s team, making it difficult to score goals and win matches.

Graphics and sound

Manchester United Europe’s graphics are impressive for a game of its time. The game features detailed sprites and backgrounds, which create a realistic and immersive experience. The game’s sound is also well-done, with realistic crowd noises and commentary.

Modes

Manchester United Europe features a variety of different modes, including:

  • League mode: The player’s team competes against other teams in a league format.
  • Cup mode: The player’s team competes in a knockout tournament.
  • Friendly match mode: The player can play a one-off match against another team.

The game also features a variety of different options, which allows the player to customize their gaming experience. The player can choose the difficulty level, the length of the matches, and the number of teams in the league.

Reception

Manchester United Europe was well-received by critics upon release. The game was praised for its realistic gameplay, its detailed graphics, and its addictive nature. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

The game was particularly praised for its realistic gameplay. The AI is challenging, and the game’s physics engine is realistic. The game also features a variety of different modes and options, which allows the player to customize their gaming experience.

Manchester United Europe is considered to be one of the best football games of all time. The game is still played by many fans today, and it is considered to be a classic of the genre.

Legacy

Manchester United Europe is a classic football game that still holds up today. The game’s realistic gameplay, detailed graphics, and addictive nature make it a must-play for any fan of the sport. The game is also a testament to the enduring popularity of Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

Manchester United Europe has been followed by a number of sequels, including Manchester United Premier League (1992), Manchester United Champions (1993), and Manchester United 96 (1995). These sequels have all built upon the success of the original game, and they have helped to keep Manchester United as one of the most popular video game franchises in the world.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Confuzion (1985)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Confuzion: A Mind-Boggling Puzzle Classic

Released in 1985, Confuzion is a puzzle game that challenges players to navigate a maze filled with colorful blocks and obstacles. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it has been enjoyed by gamers of all ages for over three decades.

Gameplay

The goal of Confuzion is to guide a small square character through a maze to the exit. The maze is made up of a grid of squares, each of which is filled with a different color. The player character can only move in one direction at a time, and it must change direction whenever it hits a wall or an obstacle.

The obstacles in Confuzion come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some obstacles block the player’s path, while others can be moved or destroyed. The player must use their wits to figure out how to get around the obstacles and reach the exit.

Levels

Confuzion features 100 levels, each of which is more challenging than the last. The early levels are relatively simple, but the later levels become increasingly complex and difficult. Some levels require the player to use logic and problem-solving skills, while others require quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

Power-Ups

Throughout the game, the player can collect power-ups that give them special abilities. These power-ups include:

  • Speed Boost: Makes the player character move faster.
  • Bomb: Destroys all obstacles in a certain radius.
  • Key: Unlocks doors that block the player’s path.
  • Shield: Makes the player character invulnerable to obstacles for a limited time.

Reception

Confuzion was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s simple but addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and charming graphics. The game was also a hit with gamers, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years.

Legacy

Confuzion is considered one of the classic puzzle games of all time. The game’s simple but challenging gameplay has inspired numerous other puzzle games, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages today.

Tips for Playing Confuzion

Here are a few tips for playing Confuzion:

  • Take your time. Confuzion is a game that requires patience and thought. Don’t try to rush through the levels. Take your time to figure out the best way to get around the obstacles and reach the exit.
  • Use the power-ups wisely. The power-ups in Confuzion can be very helpful, but they are also limited. Use them wisely to get yourself out of tough situations.
  • Don’t give up. Some of the levels in Confuzion are very challenging. If you get stuck, don’t give up. Keep trying and you will eventually find a way to beat the level.

Conclusion

Confuzion is a classic puzzle game that is still enjoyed by gamers of all ages today. The game’s simple but challenging gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive levels have made it a timeless classic. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding puzzle game, then Confuzion is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Savage Island (1980)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Savage Island (1980): A Text Adventure Classic

Introduction

Savage Island is a text adventure game released in 1980 for the TRS-80 and Apple II computers. It was developed by Adventure International and is considered one of the classic text adventures of the early 1980s.

Gameplay

The player takes on the role of a lone explorer who has been shipwrecked on a remote Pacific island. The island is home to a number of strange and dangerous creatures, as well as an active volcano and an impending hurricane. The player must explore the island, find the secret of the island, and escape before the hurricane hits.

The game is played by typing in commands to the computer. The player can move around the island, examine objects, and interact with the creatures that inhabit it. The game features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress.

Setting

Savage Island is set on a remote Pacific island that is home to a number of strange and dangerous creatures. The island is also home to an active volcano and an impending hurricane. The player must explore the island, find the secret of the island, and escape before the hurricane hits.

Characters

The player is the only human character in the game. The player will encounter a number of creatures on the island, including:

  • Giant spiders
  • Venomous snakes
  • Killer bees
  • Cannibals

The player must be careful when interacting with these creatures, as they can be deadly.

Plot

The player’s ship is wrecked on a remote Pacific island. The player must explore the island, find the secret of the island, and escape before the hurricane hits.

The player will encounter a number of challenges on the island, including:

  • The active volcano
  • The impending hurricane
  • The dangerous creatures that inhabit the island

The player must use their wits and courage to overcome these challenges and escape the island.

Reception

Savage Island was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, its challenging puzzles, and its immersive atmosphere. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.

Savage Island is considered one of the classic text adventures of the early 1980s. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will keep players on the edge of their seats.

Legacy

Savage Island has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative gameplay and challenging puzzles have inspired many other text adventures. The game’s immersive atmosphere has also been praised by critics and players alike.

Savage Island is a classic text adventure that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging puzzles and immersive atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Tips for Playing Savage Island

Here are a few tips for playing Savage Island:

  • Explore the island thoroughly. There are many hidden objects and secrets to be found on the island.
  • Be careful when interacting with the creatures that inhabit the island. They can be deadly.
  • Use your wits and courage to overcome the challenges that you will face on the island.
  • Don’t give up! Savage Island is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding.

Conclusion

Savage Island is a classic text adventure that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging puzzles and immersive atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Thrust (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Thrust (1986): A Retro Shooter Classic

Thrust is a 1986 shooter game developed by Imagine Software and published by Firebird Software. The game was originally released for the Commodore 64, and was later ported to the Amiga, Atari ST, and ZX Spectrum.

The aim of Thrust is to pilot a spacecraft which must pick up a pod using a tractor beam and fly it into space. The ship and pod are subject to gravity and inertia, and being connected by a stiff rod, they can end up spinning around each other, out of control. Hitting the walls of the cave with either the ship or the pod results in death.

Thrust is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun. The levels are well-designed and varied, and the gameplay is addictive. The game’s physics are also very realistic, which makes it even more challenging and rewarding to play.

Gameplay

Thrust is a 2D shooter game. The player controls a spacecraft which must pick up a pod using a tractor beam and fly it into space. The ship and pod are subject to gravity and inertia, and being connected by a stiff rod, they can end up spinning around each other, out of control. Hitting the walls of the cave with either the ship or the pod results in death.

The game is played from a top-down perspective. The player uses the joystick to control the ship’s movement and the fire button to fire the tractor beam. The tractor beam can be used to pick up the pod and pull it towards the ship. The player must then use the ship’s thrusters to fly the pod into space.

The game features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges. The player must navigate through caves, avoid obstacles, and defeat enemies. The game also features a number of power-ups which can help the player, such as shields, extra lives, and speed boosts.

Development

Thrust was developed by Imagine Software, a British video game company. The game was designed by David Perry, who was inspired by the arcade game Lunar Lander. Perry wanted to create a game that was more challenging and realistic than Lunar Lander, and he succeeded in doing so.

Thrust was released in 1986 and was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, realistic physics, and addictive nature. Thrust has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today.

Legacy

Thrust is considered to be one of the classic shooter games of the 1980s. The game’s challenging gameplay, realistic physics, and addictive nature have made it a favorite of gamers for over 30 years. Thrust has also been influential in the development of other shooter games, such as Descent and Gravity Force.

Conclusion

Thrust is a classic shooter game that is still a blast to play today. The game’s challenging gameplay, realistic physics, and addictive nature make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a retro shooter game to play, then Thrust is definitely worth checking out.

Here are some additional details about Thrust:

  • The game was originally released for the Commodore 64, but was later ported to the Amiga, Atari ST, and ZX Spectrum.
  • The game features a total of 100 levels.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Rob Hubbard.
  • Thrust was a critical and commercial success, and has been praised for its challenging gameplay, realistic physics, and addictive nature.
  • The game has been influential in the development of other shooter games, such as Descent and Gravity Force.

Review Score

9/10

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Secret Mission (1979)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Secret Mission (1979): A Text-Based Adventure Classic

Secret Mission is a text-based adventure game released in 1979 for the TRS-80 and Apple II computers. It was one of the first adventure games to use a two-word command parser, and it is still considered one of the best examples of the genre.

The game takes place in a nuclear power plant, and the player must prevent a reactor meltdown. To do this, the player must explore the plant, solve puzzles, and interact with the other characters in the game.

Secret Mission is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The puzzles are clever and the atmosphere is immersive. The game is also notable for its realistic graphics, which were groundbreaking at the time.

Gameplay

Secret Mission is played using a two-word command parser. The player types in a verb and a noun, and the game responds with a description of the results. For example, the player could type “GET KEY” to pick up a key, or “USE KEY” to use a key to open a door.

The game world is divided into a series of rooms, each of which is described in detail. The player can move between rooms by typing “GO” followed by the direction they want to go.

The player can also interact with the objects in the game world. To do this, the player types “USE” followed by the object they want to use. For example, the player could type “USE KEY” to use a key to open a door, or “USE COMPUTER” to use a computer.

The player can also interact with the other characters in the game. To do this, the player types “TALK” followed by the character’s name. For example, the player could type “TALK TO SCIENTIST” to talk to the scientist in the game.

Puzzles

Secret Mission is full of clever puzzles. The puzzles are often based on logic and observation, and they require the player to think carefully about their surroundings.

One of the most famous puzzles in the game is the “water puzzle.” In this puzzle, the player must find a way to get a bucket of water from one room to another. The player can use a variety of objects in the game world to solve this puzzle, such as a rope, a pulley, and a bucket.

Characters

Secret Mission features a cast of memorable characters. The player interacts with these characters throughout the game, and they can provide the player with valuable information and assistance.

One of the most important characters in the game is the scientist. The scientist is the one who is responsible for preventing the reactor meltdown. The player must work with the scientist to find a way to stop the meltdown.

Another important character in the game is the security guard. The security guard is responsible for keeping the power plant safe. The player must interact with the security guard to gain access to different areas of the plant.

Atmosphere

Secret Mission has a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. The player is constantly aware of the danger of the reactor meltdown, and they must race against time to prevent it.

The game’s graphics also contribute to the atmosphere. The graphics are simple, but they are effective in creating a sense of realism. The player feels like they are actually inside a nuclear power plant, and they can feel the tension and suspense as they try to prevent the meltdown.

Legacy

Secret Mission is considered one of the greatest text-based adventure games ever made. The game was praised for its challenging puzzles, immersive atmosphere, and realistic graphics.

Secret Mission has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Commodore 64, the Atari 8-bit family, and the PC. The game is still available for purchase today, and it remains a popular choice for fans of classic adventure games.

Conclusion

Secret Mission is a classic text-based adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging puzzles, immersive atmosphere, and realistic graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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SimCity (1989)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

SimCity (1989) is a pioneering city-building simulation game that introduced players to the challenges and joys of urban planning, setting the standard for the genre with its innovative gameplay and lasting impact.

Introduction

SimCity, also known as SimCity Classic, is a groundbreaking city-building simulation game that set the standard for the genre.

Synopsis

SimCity, first released in 1989, is a groundbreaking city-building simulation game designed by Will Wright.

The idea for SimCity came from various sources. Wright was inspired when he spent more time creating maps for Raid on Bungeling Bay than playing the game. He also cites “The Seventh Sally”, a short story by Stanislaw Lem, as an inspiration for the game. The first version of the game was completed on the Commodore 64 in 1985. Wright spent four years trying to find a publisher. Many major publishers, including Brøderbund, were hesitant due to the innovative gameplay of SimCity. Finally, Maxis agreed to sell it as one of their two initial games.

In SimCity, players build a city without a specific goal, so the player can’t win or lose. The player can zone areas as residential, commercial, or industrial, add buildings, adjust the tax rate, construct power lines, and build roads, among other things. Depending on how the player builds his city, people will move to his city or leave. As the population grows, the player must accommodate their needs. In certain versions of SimCity, players get rewards for having a large population.

Players will sometimes have to face disasters such as giant fires and earthquakes. They can happen randomly or can be purposely triggered by the player. In scenarios, disasters occur at predetermined moments. Not all disasters were available in every version of SimCity.

Scenarios were included as a different way to play SimCity. Rather than having no goals and as much time as the player wanted, scenarios gave the player a goal and a time limit. Scenarios in SimCity replicated a real city and sometimes a real event. As with the disasters, not all scenarios were available with every version of SimCity.

SimCity was independently developed by Will Wright, beginning in 1985. The game was not released until 1989. Because the game lacked any arcade or action elements that dominated the video game market in the 1980s, video game publishers declined to release the title for fear of its commercial failure until Broderbund eventually agreed to distribute it. Although the game initially sold poorly, positive feedback from the gaming press boosted its sales. After becoming a best-seller, SimCity was released on several other platforms, most notably on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1991. Its gameplay was significantly revised with Nintendo’s involvement. SimCity sold 300,000 units for personal computers and nearly 2 million units for the SNES.

Characters

While there are no characters in the traditional sense, players interact with advisors and citizens who provide feedback on city management.

Gameplay

SimCity offers a sandbox experience with open-ended gameplay, allowing players to create their cities from scratch using zoning tools, budget management, and urban planning strategies.

Conclusion

SimCity remains a classic in the city-building genre, offering a timeless experience that continues to inspire players and developers alike.

Review Score

8.1/10

Art

Cover Art

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Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

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Jet Set Willy (1984)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Jet Set Willy: A Mansion of Mayhem and Mischief

Released in 1984 for the ZX Spectrum, Jet Set Willy is a flip-screen platform game that took the gaming world by storm. Developed by Software Projects and published by Sinclair Research, Jet Set Willy is the sequel to the highly successful Manic Miner.

Gameplay

Jet Set Willy is a platform game in which the player controls Willy, a portly and bespectacled character, as he explores his vast mansion, collecting objects and avoiding hazards. The mansion is divided into multiple rooms, each with its own unique layout and challenges. Willy can move left and right, jump, and climb ladders and ropes.

Unlike its predecessor, Manic Miner, Jet Set Willy allows the player to explore the mansion at will. This freedom of exploration gives the game a sense of openness and nonlinearity that was groundbreaking at the time.

Plot

The game’s plot is fairly simple. Willy has returned home from a jet-setting adventure to find that his mansion has been taken over by a group of mischievous creatures. Willy must now explore the mansion, collect all the objects that the creatures have stolen, and defeat the creatures themselves.

Challenges

Jet Set Willy is known for its challenging gameplay. The mansion is filled with traps, hazards, and enemies, all of which can quickly kill Willy if he is not careful. The game also features some tricky puzzles that require the player to think outside the box.

One of the most challenging aspects of Jet Set Willy is the fact that Willy can only carry a limited number of objects at a time. This means that the player must carefully plan their route through the mansion, as they may need to backtrack to collect objects that they have previously dropped.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Jet Set Willy’s graphics were impressive. The game’s characters and environments were detailed and colorful, and the animation was smooth. The game’s sound effects were also well-done, and the music was catchy and memorable.

Reception

Jet Set Willy was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging level design, and charming graphics. Jet Set Willy is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Legacy

Jet Set Willy had a profound impact on the video game industry. The game’s open-ended exploration and nonlinear gameplay inspired many future games, including the Grand Theft Auto series. Jet Set Willy is also credited with popularizing the use of flip-screens in platform games.

Tips for Playing Jet Set Willy

  • Take your time and explore the mansion thoroughly. There are many hidden secrets and shortcuts to discover.
  • Be careful not to fall off the screen. If you do, you will lose a life.
  • Use the objects that you collect to your advantage. For example, you can use the umbrella to float over gaps, and the pogo stick to jump higher.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is more than one way to solve many of the puzzles in Jet Set Willy.

Conclusion

Jet Set Willy is a classic platform game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging gameplay, charming graphics, and memorable music make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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