Platform: Apple II

Spellbreaker (1985)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Spellbreaker: A Masterpiece of Interactive Fiction

Spellbreaker is the third and final game in Infocom’s Enchanter trilogy, and it is widely considered to be one of the greatest interactive fiction games ever created. Released in 1985, Spellbreaker builds on the strengths of its predecessors, Enchanter and Sorcerer, with a compelling story, challenging puzzles, and superb writing.

The game takes place ten years after the events of Enchanter. The player character, now the leader of the Circle of Enchanters, is called upon to investigate the sudden failure of magic throughout the land. The leaders of all the Guilds have gathered to demand answers, but before the player can address them, they are all transformed into toads and newts. Everyone present is affected except for the player and a shadowy figure who flees the hall.

The player must now set out on a quest to find the source of the magical disruption and restore balance to the land. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including treacherous dungeons, deadly creatures, and mind-bending puzzles.

One of the things that makes Spellbreaker so special is its story. The game’s plot is full of twists and turns, and the player is constantly kept guessing about what will happen next. The writing is also top-notch, with a rich cast of characters and a vivid setting.

In addition to its story, Spellbreaker is also known for its challenging puzzles. The game’s puzzles are fair but difficult, and they require the player to think creatively in order to solve them. The puzzles are also well-integrated into the story, and they never feel like arbitrary obstacles.

Spellbreaker is a game that can be enjoyed by players of all levels of experience. If you’re a fan of interactive fiction, or just love great storytelling, then you need to play Spellbreaker.

Gameplay

Spellbreaker is a text-based interactive fiction game. The player controls the game by typing commands, which are then parsed by the game’s engine. The game’s world is described in detail, and the player can explore it by moving from location to location.

The player can interact with objects and characters in the game world by using commands such as “get”, “use”, and “talk to”. The player can also cast spells by typing the appropriate command followed by the name of the spell.

Spellbreaker features a variety of puzzles, which the player must solve in order to progress through the game. The puzzles are typically based on logic and problem-solving, and they require the player to think creatively in order to solve them.

Setting

Spellbreaker is set in the same fantasy world as the previous two games in the Enchanter trilogy. The game’s world is a rich and detailed one, with a variety of locations to explore, including forests, dungeons, and castles.

The game’s world is also home to a variety of creatures, both friendly and hostile. The player will encounter everything from talking animals to deadly monsters.

Characters

Spellbreaker features a cast of memorable characters. The player character is a powerful wizard, and they will be aided by a variety of allies, including a talking cat and a wise old wizard.

The player will also encounter a variety of antagonists, including a powerful sorcerer and a group of evil creatures.

Legacy

Spellbreaker is considered to be one of the greatest interactive fiction games ever created. The game’s story, puzzles, and writing have all been praised by critics and players alike.

Spellbreaker has also been influential on the development of other interactive fiction games. The game’s use of a parser-based interface and its focus on storytelling have been adopted by many other IF games.

Conclusion

Spellbreaker is a masterpiece of interactive fiction. The game’s story, puzzles, and writing are all top-notch, and the game’s world is rich and detailed. If you’re a fan of interactive fiction, or just love great storytelling, then you need to play Spellbreaker.

Review Score

9/10

Art

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Bureaucracy (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Bureaucracy: A Hilarious and Frustrating Journey Through the Kafkaesque Maze

Released in 1987 by Infocom, Bureaucracy is an interactive fiction game that takes players on a hilarious and frustrating journey through the Kafkaesque maze of bureaucracy. Scripted by popular comic science fiction author Douglas Adams, the game challenges players to confront a long and complicated series of bureaucratic hurdles resulting from a recent change of address.

Players take on the role of an ordinary person who has recently moved to a new apartment. However, simple tasks like retrieving misdirected mail and opening a bank account become nearly impossible due to a series of bureaucratic nightmares. The game includes a measure of simulated blood pressure, which rises when “frustrating” events happen and lowers after a period of no annoying events. Once a certain blood pressure level is reached, the player suffers an aneurysm and the game ends.

Bureaucracy is full of bizarre characters and situations that will leave players laughing and screaming in frustration. Players will encounter an antisocial hacker, a paranoid weapons enthusiast, a tribe of Zalagasan cannibals, and a hungry llama. They will also have to deal with impersonal corporations, counterintuitive airport logic, and a never-ending stream of paperwork.

Despite its often frustrating nature, Bureaucracy is a brilliant satire of the bureaucratic nightmare. The game’s humor is sharp and witty, and its characters are unforgettable. Bureaucracy is a must-play for fans of adventure games, British humor, and anyone who has ever had to deal with the frustrations of bureaucracy.

The Bureaucratic Maze

The world of Bureaucracy is a labyrinth of red tape and bureaucracy. Players must navigate a complex web of government agencies, corporations, and other organizations, each with its own set of rules and regulations. To complete the game, players must learn to navigate this maze and find creative ways to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.

One of the most frustrating aspects of Bureaucracy is the game’s lack of clear instructions. Players are often left to figure out what to do next on their own, which can lead to a lot of trial and error. However, this also adds to the game’s challenge and replayability.

The Characters of Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy is full of a cast of quirky and memorable characters. Players will encounter a wide range of people, from helpful strangers to unhelpful bureaucrats. Some of the most notable characters include:

  • Arthur Dent: The protagonist of the game, who is trying to retrieve his misdirected mail.
  • Ford Prefect: Arthur’s friend and a former researcher for the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
  • Zaphod Beeblebrox: The eccentric president of the Galaxy, who makes a cameo appearance in the game.
  • Marvin the Paranoid Android: A depressed and pessimistic robot who provides comic relief throughout the game.

The Humor of Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy is a very funny game. Douglas Adams’s wit and humor are on full display throughout the game. The game is full of absurd situations, clever puns, and laugh-out-loud moments.

One of the funniest aspects of the game is the way it satirizes bureaucracy. The game’s characters and situations are exaggerated, but they are also based on real-life experiences. Bureaucracy captures the frustration and absurdity of dealing with bureaucracy in a way that is both hilarious and relatable.

The Legacy of Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its humor, originality, and challenge. Bureaucracy has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today.

Bureaucracy has also been influential in the development of other interactive fiction games. The game’s unique blend of humor, satire, and challenge has inspired many other game designers. Bureaucracy is a classic interactive fiction game that deserves to be played by anyone who enjoys adventure games, British humor, or satire.

Conclusion

Bureaucracy is a hilarious and frustrating journey through the Kafkaesque maze of bureaucracy. The game’s sharp wit, memorable characters, and challenging puzzles make it a must-play for fans of adventure games, British humor, and anyone who has ever had to deal with the frustrations of bureaucracy.

Review Score

9/10

Art

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Rings of Zilfin (1986)

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

Summary

Rings of Zilfin: A Masterpiece of ZX Spectrum Adventure Gaming

Released in 1986, Rings of Zilfin is an open-world fantasy role-playing game for the ZX Spectrum. Developed and published by Melbourne House, it was one of the most ambitious and technically impressive games of its time, and is still regarded by many as one of the best adventure games ever made.

The game is set in the fictional world of Zilfin, a land of forests, mountains, and rivers. The player takes on the role of a young adventurer who must travel across Zilfin in search of the Rings of Zilfin, four magical artifacts that have been stolen by the evil sorcerer Mordath.

Rings of Zilfin is a vast and detailed world, with over 100 locations to explore. The game’s open-world design allows the player to travel anywhere they want, and to explore the world at their own pace. There are no set paths or quests, and the player is free to choose their own way through the game.

The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and the use of color is particularly impressive for a ZX Spectrum game. The game’s world is brought to life with a variety of sound effects and music, which help to create a truly immersive experience.

The gameplay in Rings of Zilfin is challenging but fair. The player must use their wits and skills to solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and navigate the treacherous world of Zilfin. The game’s combat system is simple but effective, and the player must carefully consider their strategy in order to defeat their enemies.

Rings of Zilfin was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and was praised for its open-world design, detailed graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX.

Legacy

Rings of Zilfin is considered to be one of the most important and influential adventure games ever made. The game’s open-world design and non-linear gameplay were groundbreaking at the time, and have been imitated by many other games since. Rings of Zilfin is also notable for its detailed graphics and immersive sound, which helped to create a truly believable and engaging world for the player.

The game has been praised by critics and gamers alike for its depth, challenge, and replayability. Rings of Zilfin is a true classic of the ZX Spectrum era, and is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Gameplay

Rings of Zilfin is an open-world fantasy role-playing game. The player takes on the role of a young adventurer who must travel across Zilfin in search of the Rings of Zilfin, four magical artifacts that have been stolen by the evil sorcerer Mordath.

The game’s world is vast and detailed, with over 100 locations to explore. The player is free to travel anywhere they want, and to explore the world at their own pace. There are no set paths or quests, and the player is free to choose their own way through the game.

The game’s combat system is simple but effective. The player can attack enemies with a variety of weapons, including swords, bows and arrows, and magic spells. The player must carefully consider their strategy in order to defeat their enemies, as some enemies are more vulnerable to certain types of attacks.

Development

Rings of Zilfin was developed by a team of four programmers: David Jones, Philip Oliver, Malcolm Evans, and Chris Yates. The game was written in assembly language, and took over two years to develop.

The game’s world was inspired by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, and the game’s story features many of the classic elements of fantasy, such as elves, dwarves, and dragons.

Reception

Rings of Zilfin was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its open-world design, detailed graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and MSX.

Rings of Zilfin is considered to be one of the most important and influential adventure games ever made. The game’s open-world design and non-linear gameplay were groundbreaking at the time, and have been imitated by many other games since. Rings of Zilfin is also notable for its detailed graphics and immersive sound, which helped to create a truly believable and engaging world for the player.

The game has been praised by critics and gamers alike for its depth, challenge, and replayability. Rings of Zilfin is a true classic of the ZX Spectrum era, and is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Review Score

8.5/10

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The Lurking Horror (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

The Lurking Horror: A Lovecraftian Masterpiece of Interactive Fiction

Released in 1987 by Infocom, The Lurking Horror is a text-based interactive fiction game that takes players on a terrifying journey into the depths of cosmic horror. Inspired by the writings of H.P. Lovecraft, the game creates an immersive and atmospheric experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing.

You begin the game as a private investigator called to the isolated New England town of Dunwich to investigate the disappearance of a wealthy local man. As you delve deeper into your investigation, you uncover a sinister plot involving ancient beings and unspeakable horrors.

The Lurking Horror is a master class in interactive storytelling. The game’s parser is incredibly powerful, allowing you to interact with the world in a natural and intuitive way. You can explore the town of Dunwich, talk to its inhabitants, and collect clues to help you solve the mystery.

The game’s atmosphere is one of its strongest points. The writing is evocative and descriptive, creating a vivid sense of place and mood. The sound effects and music (in the Amiga version) add to the immersive experience, creating a truly unsettling and oppressive atmosphere.

The Lurking Horror is also a challenging game. The puzzles are complex and require careful thought to solve. The game world is unforgiving, and there are many ways to die. However, the challenge is fair, and the sense of accomplishment you feel when you finally solve the mystery is immense.

Lovecraftian Horror at Its Best

The Lurking Horror is a faithful adaptation of Lovecraft’s cosmic horror mythos. The game features many of Lovecraft’s signature themes, such as the insignificance of humanity in the face of the vast and unknowable universe, the existence of ancient and powerful beings that exist beyond our comprehension, and the inevitability of madness and doom.

The game’s setting is also quintessentially Lovecraftian. Dunwich is a small, isolated town with a dark history. The townsfolk are superstitious and xenophobic, and there are rumors of strange goings-on in the surrounding woods.

The Lurking Horror is a truly terrifying game. The atmosphere is oppressive, the puzzles are challenging, and the stakes are high. If you’re a fan of Lovecraftian horror, then you owe it to yourself to play this game.

A Technical Marvel

In addition to its storytelling and atmosphere, The Lurking Horror is also a technical marvel. The game was written using Infocom’s Z-machine, which allowed it to be ported to multiple platforms. The game’s parser is incredibly powerful, and it allows for a wide range of player input.

The Amiga version of the game was the first Infocom game to feature sound effects and music. The sound effects are used sparingly, but they are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere and tension. The music is also excellent, and it helps to set the mood for the game.

Conclusion

The Lurking Horror is a masterpiece of interactive fiction. It is a terrifying, atmospheric, and challenging game that will stay with you long after you finish playing. If you’re a fan of Lovecraftian horror, then you owe it to yourself to play this game.

Review Score: 9/10

Pros:

  • Immersive and atmospheric
  • Complex and challenging puzzles
  • Faithful adaptation of Lovecraft’s cosmic horror mythos
  • Powerful parser
  • Excellent sound effects and music (Amiga version)

Cons:

  • Can be unforgiving
  • Some puzzles may be too difficult for some players

Review Score

8.5/10

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Jumpman (1983)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Jumpman (1983): A Classic Platformer That’s Still Fun Today

Jumpman is a platform game written by Randy Glover and released by Epyx in 1983. Originally developed for the Atari 8-bit family, versions were also released for the Commodore 64, Apple II, IBM PC, and ColecoVision.

The game is simple but addictive, with challenging levels and tight controls. Players control Jumpman, a small, blue character wearing a red hat and overalls. Jumpman must jump and climb his way through a series of levels, avoiding enemies and collecting keys to open doors.

Jumpman was one of the first platformers to feature multiple levels, and its innovative gameplay helped to define the genre. The game was also one of the first to use a joystick, which gave players more precise control over Jumpman’s movements.

Jumpman was a critical and commercial success, and it has been praised for its challenging gameplay, addictive nature, and innovative use of a joystick. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it remains popular with retro gamers today.

Gameplay

Jumpman is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Jumpman as he jumps and climbs his way through a series of levels. The goal of each level is to reach the exit door, which is typically located at the top of the screen.

Jumpman can jump, climb ladders, and shoot enemies. He can also collect keys to open doors. The game features a variety of enemies, including spiders, bats, and ghosts.

The levels in Jumpman are challenging, but they are also fair. The player must carefully time their jumps and climbs in order to avoid falling or being hit by enemies. The game also features a number of secret areas that can be accessed by finding hidden passages.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Jumpman are simple but effective. The characters and backgrounds are all rendered in a colorful, cartoonish style. The game’s music is also catchy and memorable.

Controls

Jumpman is controlled using a joystick. The joystick controls Jumpman’s movement and jumping. The player can also press the fire button to shoot enemies.

Legacy

Jumpman is a classic platformer that helped to define the genre. The game’s challenging gameplay, addictive nature, and innovative use of a joystick have made it a favorite of retro gamers for decades.

Jumpman has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it remains popular with retro gamers today. The game is also available on modern platforms, such as the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4.

Conclusion

Jumpman is a classic platformer that’s still fun to play today. It’s simple but addictive, with challenging levels and tight controls. If you’re a fan of retro games, you owe it to yourself to check out Jumpman!

Tips for Playing Jumpman

Here are a few tips for playing Jumpman:

  • Take your time and learn the levels. The levels in Jumpman are challenging, but they are also fair. The player must carefully time their jumps and climbs in order to avoid falling or being hit by enemies.
  • Use the joystick to control Jumpman’s movement and jumping. The joystick gives players more precise control over Jumpman’s movements than the keyboard.
  • Shoot enemies when they are close to you. Jumpman can shoot enemies by pressing the fire button. The player should shoot enemies when they are close to Jumpman in order to avoid being hit.
  • Collect keys to open doors. Keys are scattered throughout the levels in Jumpman. The player must collect keys in order to open doors and progress through the game.
  • Find secret areas. The levels in Jumpman feature a number of secret areas that can be accessed by finding hidden passages. These secret areas often contain power-ups or extra lives.

With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Jumpman and become a platforming pro!

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Jungle Hunt (1982)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Jungle Hunt: A Pioneering Arcade Adventure

Released in 1982 by Taito, Jungle Hunt is a side-scrolling arcade game that captivated players with its innovative gameplay and groundbreaking graphics. It was one of the first video games to utilize parallax scrolling, a technique that creates a sense of depth and movement by scrolling background layers at different speeds.

Gameplay: A Perilous Jungle Journey

Jungle Hunt immerses players in a thrilling jungle adventure as they take control of an unnamed explorer on a mission to rescue his beloved from a tribe of hungry cannibals. The explorer must navigate a treacherous path through the jungle, swinging from vine to vine, swimming across crocodile-infested rivers, and dodging rolling rocks.

The game’s side-scrolling gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, requiring quick reflexes and precise timing. Players must carefully calculate their swings and jumps to avoid obstacles and reach the end of each level. The vibrant jungle environment, teeming with lush vegetation and exotic wildlife, adds to the immersive experience.

Pioneering Graphics and Sound

Jungle Hunt’s graphics were groundbreaking for its time. The use of parallax scrolling created a sense of depth and movement that was unmatched by other arcade games of the era. The vibrant colors and detailed sprites brought the jungle environment to life, making it one of the most visually impressive arcade games of its time.

The game’s sound effects and music are equally impressive. The sound of the explorer’s footsteps and the cries of the cannibals create a tense and atmospheric soundscape. The catchy jungle-themed music adds to the game’s overall appeal and makes it a memorable experience.

Home Versions and Legacy

The success of Jungle Hunt led to several home versions being released for popular platforms such as the Atari 2600, Commodore 64, and IBM PC. While these home versions varied in quality, they all captured the essence of the arcade original and allowed players to experience the game’s thrilling gameplay and innovative graphics at home.

Jungle Hunt has left a lasting legacy in the video game industry. Its pioneering use of parallax scrolling set a new standard for arcade graphics and influenced the development of countless future games. The game’s fast-paced gameplay and challenging difficulty have also made it a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its technical achievements, Jungle Hunt also had a significant cultural impact. The game’s iconic explorer character, with his pith helmet and safari suit, became a recognizable symbol of the arcade era. The game’s catchy music and sound effects have also been featured in numerous popular culture references, including movies and television shows.

Conclusion

Jungle Hunt is a true arcade classic that revolutionized the video game industry with its innovative gameplay and groundbreaking graphics. Its side-scrolling adventure, vibrant jungle environment, and challenging difficulty have made it a timeless favorite among gamers of all ages. As one of the first games to utilize parallax scrolling, Jungle Hunt set a new standard for arcade graphics and left a lasting legacy on the video game industry.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Crush, Crumble and Chomp! (1981)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Crush, Crumble, and Chomp! (1981): A Monstrous Arcade Classic

Released in 1981, Crush, Crumble and Chomp! is an arcade game that lets players take control of a variety of monsters and wreak havoc upon unsuspecting cities. The game was developed by Midway Games and was one of the first arcade games to feature destructible environments.

Gameplay

The player controls a monster that can move around the city, destroying buildings and eating people. The goal of the game is to cause as much damage as possible before being defeated by the army.

There are a total of four different monsters to choose from, each with its own unique abilities. The monsters are:

  • Gargantua: A giant green monster with super strength and the ability to breathe fire.
  • Chomper: A large, red monster with sharp teeth and the ability to spit acid.
  • Quake: A small, blue monster with the ability to create earthquakes.
  • Sizzle: A flying monster that can shoot fireballs.

The city is procedurally generated, so each game is different. The buildings in the city can be destroyed by the monsters, and the people can be eaten. The army will eventually arrive to try to stop the monsters, and the game ends when all of the monsters are defeated.

Development

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! was developed by Midway Games, which was one of the leading arcade game developers at the time. The game was designed by Eugene Jarvis, who was also responsible for other classic arcade games such as Defender and Robotron: 2084.

The game was inspired by the 1958 film “The Blob,” which features a giant, gelatinous monster that terrorizes a small town. Jarvis wanted to create a game that would let players experience the power of a giant monster.

Reception

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, destructible environments, and charming pixel art. The game was also a financial success, selling over 10,000 arcade cabinets.

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! has been ported to a variety of home consoles over the years, including the Atari 2600, the Commodore 64, and the Nintendo Switch. The game has also been included in several arcade game compilations.

Legacy

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! is considered to be one of the most influential arcade games of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay and destructible environments helped to set the stage for future arcade classics such as Rampage and Gauntlet. The game is also remembered for its charming pixel art and memorable monsters.

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by gamers of all ages. The game is a classic example of the golden age of arcade gaming, and it is a must-play for any fan of retro games.

Tips for Playing

Here are a few tips for playing Crush, Crumble and Chomp!:

  • Choose the right monster for the job. Each monster has its own unique abilities, so choose the one that is best suited for the task at hand.
  • Destroy the buildings in the city to score points and to create chaos.
  • Eat the people in the city to score points and to replenish your health.
  • Be careful of the army. The army will eventually arrive to try to stop you, so be prepared to fight them off.
  • Don’t give up! Even if you are defeated, you can always try again.

Conclusion

Crush, Crumble and Chomp! is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, destructible environments, and charming pixel art make it a must-play for any fan of retro games.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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Manhunter: New York (1988)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Manhunter: New York (1988)

Manhunter: New York is a science fiction action-adventure game developed and published by Rockstar Games in 1988. The game is set in a futuristic New York City that has been ravaged by an alien invasion. The player takes on the role of a Manhunter, a member of an elite police force tasked with hunting down and capturing criminals.

The game is played from a top-down perspective and features a variety of action-packed missions. The player must use a variety of weapons and gadgets to defeat enemies and progress through the game. The game also features a number of puzzles that must be solved in order to advance.

Manhunter: New York was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and immersive story. The game has been cited as an influence on many subsequent action-adventure games, and is considered to be a classic of the genre.

Gameplay

Manhunter: New York is a top-down action-adventure game in which the player takes on the role of a Manhunter, a member of an elite police force tasked with hunting down and capturing criminals. The game is played from a top-down perspective and features a variety of action-packed missions.

The player must use a variety of weapons and gadgets to defeat enemies and progress through the game. The player can use a variety of weapons, including guns, grenades, and flamethrowers. The player can also use a variety of gadgets, such as night vision goggles, grappling hooks, and lockpicks.

The game also features a number of puzzles that must be solved in order to advance. The puzzles are typically environmental puzzles, such as figuring out how to open a door or how to disable a security system.

Setting

Manhunter: New York is set in a futuristic New York City that has been ravaged by an alien invasion. The aliens, known as the Orbs, are a technologically advanced race that has conquered Earth and enslaved humanity. The player must fight their way through the alien-occupied city and defeat the Orbs in order to liberate New York City.

The game’s setting is dark and gritty, with a strong cyberpunk aesthetic. The city is filled with neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and graffiti-covered walls. The streets are patrolled by alien enforcers, and the citizens live in fear of the Orbs.

Characters

The player character in Manhunter: New York is a Manhunter, a member of an elite police force tasked with hunting down and capturing criminals. The Manhunters are the only hope for humanity in the fight against the Orbs.

The player can choose to play as one of three different Manhunters: Jake Hunter, Mark Hammond, or Lisa Madigan. Each Manhunter has their own unique abilities and weapons.

  • Jake Hunter is a skilled marksman and a master of hand-to-hand combat.
  • Mark Hammond is a powerful brawler and a skilled demolitions expert.
  • Lisa Madigan is a stealthy operative and a skilled hacker.

Story

The story of Manhunter: New York begins two years after the Orbs invaded Earth. The Orbs have conquered the planet and enslaved humanity. The player takes on the role of a Manhunter, a member of an elite police force tasked with hunting down and capturing criminals.

The Manhunters are the only hope for humanity in the fight against the Orbs. The player must fight their way through the alien-occupied city and defeat the Orbs in order to liberate New York City.

The story of Manhunter: New York is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The cutscenes are well-animated and the voice acting is top-notch. The story is engaging and suspenseful, and it keeps the player hooked from beginning to end.

Graphics

The graphics in Manhunter: New York are top-notch for the time. The game features detailed character models, lush environments, and impressive special effects. The game’s art style is a mix of cyberpunk and film noir, and it creates a unique and immersive atmosphere.

Sound

The sound design in Manhunter: New York is excellent. The game features a haunting soundtrack that perfectly captures the game’s dark and gritty atmosphere. The sound effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience.

Legacy

Manhunter: New York was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, detailed graphics, and immersive story. The game has been cited as an influence on many subsequent action-adventure games, and is considered to be a classic of the genre.

Manhunter: New York has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and MS-DOS. The game has also been released on a number of compilation discs and digital storefronts.

Manhunter: New York remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by many gamers around the world. The game is a classic of the action-adventure genre, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Stationfall (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Stationfall: A Stellar Sequel

Stationfall is a 1987 interactive fiction computer game written by Steve Meretzky and released by Infocom. It is a sequel to Planetfall, one of Infocom’s most popular titles. The game is set five years after the events of Planetfall, and follows the player character, now a Lieutenant First Class in the Stellar Patrol, as they are assigned to accompany a spacetruck to a space station and pick up a load of “Request for Stellar Patrol Issue Regulation Black Form Binders Request Form Forms”.

Despite the seemingly mundane nature of the assignment, things quickly take a turn for the worse when the spacetruck is attacked by pirates. The player character must use their wits and skills to survive the attack and complete their mission.

Stationfall is a text-based adventure game, meaning that the player interacts with the game world by typing commands. The game features a parser that understands a wide range of natural language commands, allowing the player to interact with the game world in a realistic and immersive way.

The game world is richly detailed and full of interesting characters and locations. The player can explore the space station, interact with the crew of the spacetruck, and even visit a nearby planet. The game also features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress.

Stationfall is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a lot of replay value. The game’s parser is one of the most sophisticated of its time, and the game world is full of secrets and surprises. Fans of interactive fiction and science fiction will definitely want to check out Stationfall.

Gameplay

Stationfall is played from a first-person perspective. The player character can move around the game world by typing commands such as “go north” or “go east”. The player can also interact with objects in the game world by typing commands such as “get key” or “use key on door”.

The game’s parser is very sophisticated and understands a wide range of natural language commands. This allows the player to interact with the game world in a realistic and immersive way. For example, the player can type “ask the bartender for a drink” or “tell the guard to let me pass”.

The game world is richly detailed and full of interesting characters and locations. The player can explore the space station, interact with the crew of the spacetruck, and even visit a nearby planet. The game also features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress.

Puzzles

The puzzles in Stationfall are challenging but fair. The player must use their wits and skills to solve the puzzles in order to progress. Some of the puzzles are inventory-based, while others require the player to think outside the box.

One of the most challenging puzzles in the game involves finding a way to disable a force field. The player must use a variety of objects and clues in the game world to figure out how to do this.

Characters

The characters in Stationfall are well-developed and believable. The player can interact with a variety of characters, including the crew of the spacetruck, the staff of the space station, and the inhabitants of the nearby planet.

Each character has their own unique personality and motivations. The player must learn to interact with each character in a different way in order to get what they need.

Setting

Stationfall is set in a science fiction universe. The game takes place on a space station and a nearby planet. The space station is a bustling hub of activity, with people from all over the galaxy coming and going.

The nearby planet is a beautiful and mysterious place. The player can explore the planet’s surface and interact with its inhabitants.

Themes

Stationfall explores a number of themes, including the nature of good and evil, the importance of friendship, and the power of hope. The game also raises questions about the nature of reality and the meaning of life.

Legacy

Stationfall is a classic interactive fiction game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s sophisticated parser, well-developed characters, and challenging puzzles make it a rewarding experience for players of all levels.

Stationfall has been praised by critics for its writing, puzzles, and atmosphere. The game has been included in several lists of the best interactive fiction games of all time.

Re-release

In 2015, Stationfall was re-released for modern computers by GOG.com. The re-release includes the original game files, as well as a number of new features, such as support for high-resolution graphics and sound.

The re-release of Stationfall has been well-received by fans of the game. It is now easier than ever to experience this classic interactive fiction game.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord (1981)

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

Summary

Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord (1981): A Journey into the Depths of Fantasy

In the annals of video game history, few titles hold the same reverence and nostalgia as Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord, released in 1981 for the Apple II. This groundbreaking dungeon-crawling RPG laid the foundation for the genre, captivating players with its deep character customization, challenging combat, and seemingly endless replayability.

A Tale of Power, Madness, and Redemption

The story of Wizardry unfolds in the realm of Llylgamyn, where the once-benevolent Mad Overlord Trebor has descended into madness after acquiring a magical amulet of immense power. This amulet, stolen from him by his nemesis, the evil archmage Werdna, accidentally causes an earthquake that creates a ten-level dungeon beneath Trebor’s castle.

To salvage his pride, Werdna declares the dungeon to be his new lair and populates it with hordes of monsters. Trebor, not to be outdone, proclaims the labyrinth to be his new Proving Grounds, where adventurers must prove their worth to join his elite honor guard and, in the process, retrieve his stolen amulet.

Creating Your Party of Adventurers

At the heart of Wizardry lies the character creation system, which allows players to generate a party of up to six adventurers. Each character can be customized with a unique race, alignment, and class.

Races:

  • Human: Well-rounded with no major strengths or weaknesses
  • Elf: Agile and intelligent, with bonuses to ranged combat and spellcasting
  • Dwarf: Sturdy and strong, with bonuses to melee combat and constitution
  • Gnome: Small and nimble, with bonuses to stealth and lockpicking
  • Hobbit: Peaceful and lucky, with bonuses to charisma and perception

Alignments:

  • Good: Characters aligned with good receive bonuses to healing and protection spells, but penalties to attack spells
  • Neutral: Characters aligned with neutrality have no bonuses or penalties
  • Evil: Characters aligned with evil receive bonuses to attack spells, but penalties to healing and protection spells

Classes:

  • Fighter: Melee combat specialist with high strength and endurance
  • Priest: Healing and protection spellcaster with high piety and wisdom
  • Mage: Attack spellcaster with high intelligence and willpower
  • Thief: Stealth and utility specialist with high agility and dexterity

Elite Classes:

As characters level up, they can evolve into elite classes if they meet the necessary requirements:

  • Bishop: Priest with access to mage spells
  • Samurai: Fighter with access to mage spells
  • Lord: Fighter with access to priest spells
  • Ninja: Fighter with access to thief abilities

Delving into the Proving Grounds

Once your party is assembled, it’s time to venture into the depths of the Proving Grounds. The dungeon is a 3D vector maze, filled with a variety of monsters, traps, and treasures.

Combat:

Combat in Wizardry is turn-based, with each character taking actions in sequence. Characters can attack with melee weapons, cast spells, or use special abilities. The outcome of combat is determined by a combination of character stats, weapon and spell power, and random dice rolls.

Exploration:

Exploration is just as important as combat in Wizardry. Players must carefully navigate the dungeon, searching for hidden passages, disarming traps, and solving puzzles. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of NPCs, both friendly and hostile.

Character Development:

As characters gain experience, they will level up, increasing their stats and abilities. They can also learn new spells and abilities by finding scrolls and books within the dungeon.

Legacy and Impact

Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord was a groundbreaking game that set the standard for dungeon-crawling RPGs. Its deep character customization, challenging combat, and endless replayability have influenced countless games that came after it, including the Ultima and Might & Magic series.

Today, Wizardry remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by both retro gaming enthusiasts and modern RPG fans alike. Its simple yet elegant gameplay and timeless story continue to captivate players, proving that true greatness never goes out of style.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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