Platform: Atari 7800

Planet Smashers (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Planet Smashers: A Late-Blooming Gem for the ProSystem

Released in 1990, Planet Smashers was a 2D shoot ’em up game that finally brought an original title to the ProSystem console. Despite the console’s waning popularity, Planet Smashers managed to shine with its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and impressive features.

Gameplay

Planet Smashers puts you in control of a spaceship tasked with defending Earth from an alien armada. Your ship is equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. You must use these weapons to destroy enemy ships, asteroids, and other obstacles while protecting Earth’s shield.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges. Some levels are set in space, while others take place on the surface of planets. The levels are filled with a variety of enemies, including fighters, bombers, and bosses.

Features

Planet Smashers boasts a number of impressive features that set it apart from other shooters of its time. These features include:

  • Level Warp Codes: You can use level warp codes to skip ahead to later levels in the game. This is a great way to practice difficult levels or to see the ending of the game quickly.
  • Laser Upgrades: You can collect power-ups to upgrade your laser weapon. This makes your laser more powerful and allows it to fire faster.
  • Cloaking Device: You can collect power-ups to activate a cloaking device. This makes your ship invisible to enemies, allowing you to sneak past them or attack them from behind.
  • Interesting Bosses: Each level ends with a boss fight. The bosses are all unique and require different strategies to defeat.

Story

The story of Planet Smashers is simple but effective. Earth is under attack by an alien armada, and you must defend it. The game’s ending is a bit abrupt, but it’s still satisfying to defeat the alien mothership and save the day.

Graphics and Sound

Planet Smashers features colorful and detailed pixel art graphics. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the enemy ships are all unique and well-designed. The game’s soundtrack is also impressive, with catchy tunes that fit the action on-screen.

Overall

Planet Smashers is an excellent 2D shoot ’em up game that is still fun to play today. Its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and impressive features make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Tips for Playing Planet Smashers

Here are a few tips to help you succeed in Planet Smashers:

  • Use your laser weapon to destroy enemy ships and asteroids.
  • Collect power-ups to upgrade your laser weapon and activate your cloaking device.
  • Be careful not to let enemy ships touch your shield. If your shield is destroyed, you will lose a life.
  • Use the level warp codes to skip ahead to later levels if you’re having trouble.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies to defeat the bosses.

Legacy

Planet Smashers was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered one of the best shoot ’em up games for the ProSystem. The game has been praised for its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and impressive features. Planet Smashers is a true hidden gem that deserves to be played by more people.

Review Score

6.5/10

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Pole Position II (1983)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Pole Position II: The King of Arcade Racing

Pole Position II is a Formula One racing game released by Namco in 1983. It is the sequel to the highly successful Pole Position, and it features improved graphics, four different tracks, and a new qualifying mode.

Gameplay

Pole Position II is a third-person racing game in which the player controls a Formula One car from behind. The goal of the game is to complete each track as quickly as possible, while avoiding other cars and obstacles. The game features four different tracks: Fuji, Monza, Silverstone, and Suzuka. Each track has its own unique layout and challenges.

The game also features a new qualifying mode, in which the player must set a fast lap time in order to qualify for the race. The qualifying mode is a great way to practice the tracks and learn the best racing lines.

Graphics

Pole Position II features improved graphics over its predecessor. The cars and tracks are more detailed, and the game runs at a smoother frame rate. The game also uses a new color palette, which gives the tracks a more vibrant and realistic look.

Sound

The sound effects in Pole Position II are excellent. The cars sound powerful and realistic, and the crowd noise is immersive. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that adds to the overall atmosphere.

Reception

Pole Position II was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its improved graphics, challenging gameplay, and innovative qualifying mode. The game was also a hit in arcades, where it became one of the most popular racing games of all time.

Legacy

Pole Position II is considered to be one of the greatest arcade racing games of all time. It was one of the first games to feature realistic graphics and challenging gameplay, and it helped to popularize the Formula One racing genre. The game has been ported to numerous home consoles and computers, and it remains popular today among fans of classic arcade games.

Conclusion

Pole Position II is a classic arcade racing game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. Its improved graphics, challenging gameplay, and innovative qualifying mode make it a must-play for any fan of racing games. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the genre, Pole Position II is sure to provide hours of fun and excitement.

Tips for Playing Pole Position II

  • Practice the tracks in qualifying mode to learn the best racing lines.
  • Use the slipstream to your advantage to overtake other cars.
  • Avoid crashing into other cars and obstacles, as this will slow you down.
  • Use the gearshift to stay in the optimal rev range.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different car setups to find the one that suits your driving style best.

Trivia

  • Pole Position II was the first arcade racing game to feature a qualifying mode.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Namco sound engineer Masanobu Endoh.
  • Pole Position II was ported to the Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Master System, and the Commodore 64.
  • The game was also released as part of the Namco Museum compilation series.

Review Score

9/10

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Tank Command (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Tank Command: A Rare and Underrated Atari 7800 Gem

Released in 1988, Tank Command is a vertically scrolling action game for the Atari 7800. It’s a relatively obscure title, but it’s one of the better games on the system.

The goal of Tank Command is to capture the enemy flag while destroying as many enemy units as possible. The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player controls a tank that can move in eight directions. The tank is equipped with a cannon that can fire in any direction, and it can also drop bombs.

The game is divided into three levels, each of which is progressively more difficult. The first level is a relatively straightforward affair, but the second and third levels are much more challenging. The second level features a number of narrow passages and obstacles, and the third level is a large open area with a number of敵tanks and other units.

In addition to the main game mode, Tank Command also features a two-player cooperative mode. In this mode, two players can team up to take on the enemy forces. The cooperative mode is a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to experience the game with a friend.

Gameplay

Tank Command is a very simple game to play, but it’s also very challenging. The player’s tank is constantly under fire from enemy units, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed if you’re not careful. The key to success is to stay moving and to use your cover wisely.

The player’s tank can be destroyed in a number of ways. It can be hit by enemy fire, it can run out of fuel, or it can be crushed by enemy units. The player can also lose the game if they run out of time.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Tank Command are simple but effective. The game’s characters and environments are all well-defined, and the colors are bright and vibrant. The sound effects are also very good, and they help to create a sense of atmosphere.

Overall

Tank Command is a great game for fans of action games and classic arcade games. It’s a challenging and rewarding game that will keep you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a hidden gem on the Atari 7800, then Tank Command is definitely worth checking out.

Here are some additional tips for playing Tank Command:

  • Stay moving. The best way to avoid enemy fire is to keep your tank moving.
  • Use your cover wisely. There are a number of obstacles in each level that you can use to protect yourself from enemy fire.
  • Prioritize your targets. Some enemy units are more dangerous than others. Focus on taking out the most dangerous units first.
  • Don’t be afraid to use your bombs. Bombs can be very effective against large groups of enemy units.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Tank Command, the better you will become at it.

With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Tank Command and capture the enemy flag!

Review Score

6/10

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Scrapyard Dog (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Scrapyard Dog is a side-scrolling action game developed and published by Atari Games for the Atari 2600 video game console. It was released in 1990 and is the sequel to the 1989 game Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure.

The player controls Louie, a junkyard owner whose dog has been kidnapped by a group of thugs led by Mr. Big. Louie must travel through 15 levels of the scrapyard, fighting off thugs and avoiding hazards, in order to rescue his dog.

Scrapyard Dog is a challenging game, but it is also a lot of fun. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the sound effects are excellent. The game’s music is also very catchy.

One of the things that makes Scrapyard Dog so challenging is the fact that Louie is constantly losing health. He can be damaged by enemies, hazards, and even by falling too far. Louie can replenish his health by collecting food items, but these are scarce.

Another challenge in Scrapyard Dog is the variety of enemies. Louie will face off against thugs with knives, guns, and even flamethrowers. He will also have to avoid hazards such as spikes, pits, and conveyor belts.

Despite the challenges, Scrapyard Dog is a very rewarding game. Rescuing Louie’s dog is a great feeling, and the game’s many secrets and bonus areas add to its replay value.

Gameplay

Scrapyard Dog is a side-scrolling action game. The player controls Louie, who must travel through 15 levels of the scrapyard, fighting off thugs and avoiding hazards, in order to rescue his dog.

Louie can attack enemies with his fists or with a variety of weapons, including rocks, pipes, and guns. He can also jump and climb ladders.

The game’s levels are filled with a variety of enemies, including thugs with knives, guns, and flamethrowers. Louie will also have to avoid hazards such as spikes, pits, and conveyor belts.

Louie’s health is constantly decreasing, and he can be damaged by enemies, hazards, and even by falling too far. Louie can replenish his health by collecting food items, but these are scarce.

The game’s levels are also filled with a variety of secrets and bonus areas. These areas can contain extra lives, weapons, and other helpful items.

Development

Scrapyard Dog was developed by Atari Games and published by Atari Corporation. The game was designed by David Crane, who also designed Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure.

Scrapyard Dog was released for the Atari 2600 in 1990. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best games for the Atari 2600.

Reception

Scrapyard Dog was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Scrapyard Dog has been featured in several publications, including Electronic Gaming Monthly, Game Informer, and IGN. The game has also been included in several lists of the best Atari 2600 games.

Legacy

Scrapyard Dog is considered to be one of the best games for the Atari 2600. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a challenging and rewarding experience.

Scrapyard Dog has been ported to several other platforms, including the Atari 5200, Atari 7800, and Atari Lynx. The game has also been released on several compilation discs, including the Atari 2600 Action Pack 3 and the Atari 2600 Classics Collection.

Scrapyard Dog is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be a classic of the Atari 2600 era.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Ninja Golf (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Ninja Golf: The Ultimate Guide to the Wacky Golf/Beat ‘Em Up Hybrid

Released in 1990 for the Atari 7800, Ninja Golf is a unique and wacky game that combines golf simulation with side-scrolling beat ’em up gameplay. Players take on the role of a ninja golfer who must battle their way through hordes of enemies in order to reach the green and sink their putt.

The game is played across 18 holes, each with its own unique set of challenges. Players must use their golf clubs to not only hit the ball, but also to defeat the enemies that stand in their way. Enemies include other ninjas, gophers, birds, giant mutant frogs, sharks, and more. The type of enemies faced depends on the environment the ninja golfer is currently in. For example, sharks are encountered in water hazards and snakes in the sand traps. Ninjas are encountered in all the environments, including underwater.

In addition to the standard golf clubs, players can also use a variety of power-ups to help them on their quest. These power-ups include things like invincibility, super speed, and the ability to shoot fireballs.

Ninja Golf is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique blend of golf simulation and beat ’em up action. It’s a great choice for fans of either genre, and it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Ninja Golf is a mix of golf simulation and side-scrolling beat ’em up action. Players must use their golf clubs to not only hit the ball, but also to defeat the enemies that stand in their way.

The game is played across 18 holes, each with its own unique set of challenges. Players must tee off from the tee box and then hit their ball towards the green. Along the way, they must fight off enemies and avoid hazards such as water, sand traps, and trees.

Once the player reaches the green, they must putt the ball into the hole. Putting is done in a traditional golf simulation style, with the player having to take into account the slope of the green and the wind speed.

If the player successfully sinks their putt, they will move on to the next hole. If they fail to sink their putt, they will have to tee off again from the tee box.

Enemies

Ninja Golf features a wide variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. Some of the most common enemies include:

  • Ninjas: Ninjas are the most common enemy in Ninja Golf. They are skilled fighters and can attack the player with a variety of weapons, including swords, shurikens, and bombs.
  • Gophers: Gophers are small, burrowing rodents that can pop up from the ground and attack the player. They are not very strong, but they can be a nuisance in large numbers.
  • Birds: Birds are another common enemy in Ninja Golf. They can fly and attack the player from the air. They are not very strong, but they can be difficult to hit.
  • Giant mutant frogs: Giant mutant frogs are large, powerful enemies that can leap at the player and attack with their tongues. They are slow and笨拙, but they can be deadly if they get too close.
  • Sharks: Sharks are found in water hazards. They are fast and powerful, and they can attack the player with their sharp teeth.

Power-Ups

In addition to the standard golf clubs, players can also use a variety of power-ups to help them on their quest. These power-ups include:

  • Invincibility: Invincibility makes the player immune to all damage for a short period of time.
  • Super speed: Super speed makes the player move and attack much faster for a short period of time.
  • Fireballs: Fireballs can be thrown at enemies to damage them.
  • Extra lives: Extra lives give the player an additional life.

Tips for Playing Ninja Golf

Here are a few tips for playing Ninja Golf:

  • Use the right club for the job. Different clubs have different strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to use the right club for the shot you’re trying to make.
  • Take your time. There’s no need to rush your shots. Take your time and line up your shots carefully.
  • Don’t be afraid to use power-ups. Power-ups can give you a big advantage in battle. Don’t be afraid to use them when you need them.
  • Be prepared for anything. Ninja Golf is a challenging game. Be prepared for anything and don’t give up easily.

Conclusion

Ninja Golf is a unique and wacky game that offers a fun and challenging experience for gamers of all ages. It’s a great choice for fans of either golf simulation or beat ’em up games, and it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.

Review Score

7/10

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Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat: The F-14 Fighter Simulator (1989)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat: The F-14 Fighter Simulator (1989)

Overview

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat: The F-14 Fighter Simulator is a combat flight simulation game released in 1989 for the Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. The game puts players in the cockpit of the iconic F-14 Tomcat fighter jet, and tasks them with completing a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, bombing runs, and reconnaissance.

The game was developed by Dan Kitchen, a former US Navy F-14 pilot, and features realistic flight dynamics and detailed cockpit instrumentation. It was one of the first flight simulators to feature a true 3D environment, and its graphics were considered cutting-edge at the time.

Gameplay

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat is a realistic flight simulator that requires players to master the controls of the F-14 Tomcat in order to successfully complete missions. The game features a variety of different flight modes, including takeoff and landing, air-to-air combat, and bombing runs.

In air-to-air combat, players must use their dogfighting skills to defeat enemy aircraft. The game features a variety of different enemy aircraft, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must learn to identify their opponents and develop strategies to defeat them.

In bombing runs, players must fly their aircraft to a target and drop bombs on it. The game features a variety of different targets, including ground targets, ships, and aircraft. Players must carefully plan their approach and release their bombs at the right time in order to hit their targets.

In reconnaissance missions, players must fly their aircraft over a target area and collect information. The game features a variety of different reconnaissance targets, including enemy bases, ships, and aircraft. Players must carefully navigate their aircraft around the target area and avoid detection while collecting information.

Cockpit

The cockpit in Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat is highly detailed and realistic. It features a variety of different instruments and controls, all of which are based on the actual F-14 Tomcat cockpit. Players must learn to use these instruments and controls in order to successfully fly the aircraft and complete missions.

The cockpit instruments include a variety of different gauges and displays, which provide players with information about the aircraft’s speed, altitude, heading, and other important data. The cockpit also features a variety of different controls, which players use to control the aircraft’s flight, weapons, and other systems.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat are impressive for the time period. The game features a true 3D environment, and the aircraft and terrain are all rendered in detail. The game also features a variety of different weather effects, which can affect the gameplay.

The sound in Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat is also impressive. The game features realistic sound effects for the aircraft, weapons, and environment. The game also features a variety of different music tracks, which add to the atmosphere.

Reception

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its realistic flight dynamics, detailed cockpit instrumentation, and impressive graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat is considered to be one of the best flight simulators ever made. The game is still played by many people today, and it is considered to be a classic in the genre.

Legacy

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat had a significant impact on the flight simulation genre. The game’s realistic flight dynamics and detailed cockpit instrumentation set a new standard for flight simulators. The game also helped to popularize the F-14 Tomcat fighter jet, which became one of the most iconic aircraft in the world.

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat has been followed by a number of sequels and spin-offs. The most recent game in the series is DCS: F-14 Tomcat, which was released in 2019. DCS: F-14 Tomcat is a highly realistic flight simulator that features a detailed cockpit and realistic flight dynamics.

Conclusion

Dan Kitchen’s Tomcat: The F-14 Fighter Simulator is a classic flight simulator that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s realistic flight dynamics, detailed cockpit instrumentation, and impressive graphics make it one of the best flight simulators ever made.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Crossbow (1983)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Crossbow (1983): A Pioneering Light Gun Arcade Classic

Introduction

Crossbow, released in 1983, was a groundbreaking light gun arcade game that captivated players with its innovative gameplay and thrilling action. Developed by Sega, Crossbow was one of the earliest light gun games, and it laid the foundation for the genre that would become a staple of arcades in the years to come.

Gameplay

Crossbow is a first-person shooter game where players take on the role of a crossbowman tasked with protecting a group of adventurers from hordes of enemies. The game is played using a light gun, which players aim at the screen to shoot enemies.

The adventurers are constantly moving through the game world, and players must protect them from a variety of enemies, including goblins, skeletons, and dragons. Players can shoot enemies directly, or they can use the environment to their advantage, such as by shooting at barrels to create explosions that damage multiple enemies.

Crossbow features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges. Players must navigate through forests, caves, and castles, all while protecting the adventurers from harm. The game also features a boss battle at the end of each level, where players must defeat a powerful enemy to progress.

Historical Significance

Crossbow was one of the first light gun arcade games, and it played a major role in popularizing the genre. The game’s innovative gameplay and thrilling action set a new standard for light gun games, and it inspired many other games in the years that followed.

Crossbow was also one of the first arcade games to feature a first-person perspective. This gave players a sense of immersion that was unlike anything they had experienced in previous arcade games. The first-person perspective also allowed players to aim their shots more precisely, which added to the game’s challenge and excitement.

Legacy

Crossbow’s legacy can be seen in the many light gun games that have been released since its debut. Games such as Time Crisis, Virtua Cop, and House of the Dead all owe a debt to Crossbow, and they would not have been possible without its pioneering gameplay.

Crossbow is also remembered for its innovative use of the light gun. The game’s light gun was one of the first to use a sensor to track the player’s aim, and this technology has since become a standard feature in light gun games.

Conclusion

Crossbow is a groundbreaking light gun arcade game that played a major role in popularizing the genre. The game’s innovative gameplay, thrilling action, and first-person perspective set a new standard for light gun games, and it inspired many other games in the years that followed. Crossbow is a true classic that deserves to be remembered as one of the most important arcade games of all time.

Additional Information

  • Crossbow was developed by Sega and released in arcades in 1983.
  • The game was ported to the Sega Master System in 1985.
  • Crossbow is considered to be one of the first light gun arcade games.
  • The game is known for its innovative gameplay, thrilling action, and first-person perspective.
  • Crossbow has been praised for its influence on the light gun genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Robotron: 2084 (1982)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Robotron: 2084 (1982)

Robotron: 2084 is an arcade game developed by Eugene Jarvis and Larry DeMar and released by Williams Electronics in 1982. It is a top-down shooter game in which the player controls a lone human fighting against waves of robots. The game is set in the year 2084, and the player must protect the last remaining human family from the robot hordes.

Robotron: 2084 is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by many today. It is known for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics. The game has been ported to many different platforms over the years, and it is still available to play on modern consoles and computers.

Gameplay

Robotron: 2084 is a top-down shooter game in which the player controls a lone human fighting against waves of robots. The player character is armed with a gun that can fire in eight directions. The player must use their gun to destroy the robots and protect the human family.

The robots in Robotron: 2084 come in a variety of different types, each with their own unique abilities. Some robots are fast and agile, while others are slow and powerful. Some robots can shoot, while others can explode. The player must learn to identify the different types of robots and develop strategies for defeating them.

The player must also be careful to avoid the indestructible Hulks. Hulks are large, slow-moving robots that cannot be destroyed. If the player touches a Hulk, they will be instantly killed.

The game is played in a series of waves. Each wave consists of a set number of robots that the player must destroy. The player must complete each wave in order to progress to the next one. The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses through the waves.

Development

Robotron: 2084 was developed by Eugene Jarvis and Larry DeMar. Jarvis had previously worked on the arcade games Defender and Stargate, while DeMar was a new employee at Williams Electronics.

Jarvis and DeMar wanted to create a game that was more challenging and exciting than anything else that was available at the time. They came up with the idea for Robotron: 2084, which was inspired by the 1982 film Blade Runner.

The development of Robotron: 2084 was a challenging process. Jarvis and DeMar had to overcome a number of technical difficulties, including the limited processing power of the arcade hardware. They also had to create a game that was both fun and challenging.

After several months of hard work, Robotron: 2084 was finally released in 1982. The game was an instant success, and it quickly became one of the most popular arcade games of all time.

Reception

Robotron: 2084 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics. It was also a financial success, selling over 20,000 arcade cabinets.

Robotron: 2084 has been ported to many different platforms over the years, including the Atari 2600, the NES, and the PlayStation 4. The game is still available to play on modern consoles and computers.

Legacy

Robotron: 2084 is considered to be one of the greatest arcade games of all time. It has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics. The game has also been influential on the development of other video games, including the Halo series and the Grand Theft Auto series.

Robotron: 2084 is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by many today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that is sure to test your skills. If you are a fan of arcade games, then you need to check out Robotron: 2084.

Tips for playing Robotron: 2084

Here are a few tips for playing Robotron: 2084:

  • Learn the different types of robots. Each type of robot has its own unique abilities, so it is important to learn how to identify them and develop strategies for defeating them.
  • Use cover. The playing field is littered with obstacles that you can use to protect yourself from enemy fire. Use these obstacles to your advantage to stay alive.
  • Don’t be afraid to use your bombs. Bombs are a powerful weapon that can help you clear out large groups of robots. Use them wisely, but don’t be afraid to use them when you need to.
  • Practice. Robotron: 2084 is a challenging game, but it is also a fair game. The more you practice, the better you will become at it.

With a little practice, you will be able to master Robotron: 2084 and become one of the best players in the world.

Review Score

9/10

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Dark Chambers (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

Dark Chambers: A Retro Dungeon Crawl Classic

Released in 1989, Dark Chambers is an arcade action game that takes players on a perilous journey through a dark and dangerous dungeon. As an intrepid explorer, your goal is to survive the 26 different levels and collect as many of the hidden treasures as you can. But beware, the dungeon is filled with a variety of creatures, including zombies, wraiths, skeletons, wizards, and the grim reaper, all of whom are determined to stop you.

Dark Chambers is similar to other arcade dungeon crawlers such as Gauntlet, but it has its own unique features that set it apart. One of the most notable features is the creature transformation system. When you shoot a creature, it will transform into the next weaker creature. Eventually, a creature will become the weakest one (a zombie) at which point it can be destroyed. This system adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as you need to think carefully about which creatures to target first.

Another unique feature of Dark Chambers is the variety of items that can be found in the dungeon. In addition to the usual assortment of weapons and armor, you can also find keys to open doors, potions to restore health, poison to drain health, guns to increase your firing rate, traps, shields, and bombs. These items can be used to give you an edge in battle or to solve puzzles that block your progress.

Dark Chambers can be played by one or two players simultaneously. In two-player mode, each player controls one of the two explorers. This can be a great way to team up with a friend and take on the dungeon together.

Gameplay

Dark Chambers is played from an overhead point of view. You control your character with a joystick and two buttons: one to shoot and one to jump. Your character can move in eight directions and can shoot in any direction.

The goal of each level is to find the exit, which is hidden somewhere in the level. Once you find the exit, you can proceed to the next level. However, the dungeon is filled with a variety of creatures that will try to stop you.

The creatures in Dark Chambers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some of the most common creatures include zombies, wraiths, skeletons, wizards, and the grim reaper. Each creature has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, zombies are slow and weak, but they can take a lot of punishment. Wraiths are fast andagile, but they are also weak. Skeletons are strong and can shoot projectiles, but they are slow and笨拙. Wizards are powerful and can cast spells, but they are also fragile. The grim reaper is the most powerful creature in the game, and it can kill you with a single touch.

In addition to the creatures, there are also a variety of other obstacles in the dungeon, such as traps, pits, and lava. You will need to use your wits and skills to avoid these obstacles and reach the exit.

Items

There are a variety of items that can be found in the dungeon, including:

  • Keys: Keys are used to open doors. Some doors are locked, and you will need to find the key to open them.
  • Potions: Potions can be used to restore health. If you are running low on health, you can use a potion to replenish it.
  • Poison: Poison can be used to drain health. If you throw a poison at a creature, it will take damage over time.
  • Guns: Guns can be used to increase your firing rate. If you pick up a gun, you will be able to shoot faster and more accurately.
  • Traps: Traps can be used to damage creatures. If you place a trap in the path of a creature, it will take damage when it walks over it.
  • Shields: Shields can be used to protect you from damage. If you pick up a shield, you will be able to block attacks from creatures.
  • Bombs: Bombs can be used to damage creatures or destroy obstacles. If you throw a bomb, it will explode and damage anything in its blast radius.

Tips for Playing

Here are a few tips for playing Dark Chambers:

  • Be careful when shooting. When you shoot a creature, it will transform into the next weaker creature. If you are not careful, you could end up creating a more powerful creature than the one you started with.
  • Use your items wisely. The items in Dark Chambers can be very helpful, but they are also limited. Make sure to use them wisely and only when you need them.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. The dungeon is filled with a variety of obstacles, such as traps, pits, and lava. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid these obstacles as much as possible.
  • Team up with a friend. Dark Chambers can be played by one or two players simultaneously. If you are playing with a friend, you can team up to take on the dungeon together.

Legacy

Dark Chambers was a popular arcade game in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was ported to a number of home computers, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Atari ST. The game was also released on the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console in 2007.

Dark Chambers is considered to be one of the classic arcade dungeon crawlers. It is a challenging and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. If you are a fan of dungeon crawlers, then you owe it to yourself to check out Dark Chambers.

Conclusion

Dark Chambers is a classic arcade dungeon crawler that is still enjoyed by players today. The game’s unique creature transformation system and variety of items make it a challenging and rewarding experience. Whether you are a long-time fan of the game or are just discovering it for the first time, Dark Chambers is sure to provide you with hours of fun.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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F-18 Hornet (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

F-18 Hornet (1988): A Nostalgic Flight into the Danger Zone

Prepare for takeoff, virtual aviators! Today, we’re embarking on a nostalgic journey back to 1988 to revisit a classic flight simulation game that defined the genre: F-18 Hornet. Developed by MicroProse and published by Spectrum HoloByte, F-18 Hornet was a groundbreaking title that pushed the boundaries of flight simulation technology and captivated gamers with its realistic gameplay and thrilling combat missions.

Buckle Up for an Authentic Carrier-Based Experience

F-18 Hornet thrust players into the heart of carrier-based aviation, offering a meticulously crafted simulation of the iconic F/A-18 Hornet strike fighter. From the moment you step into the cockpit, you’re immersed in a world of realistic instrumentation, detailed graphics, and responsive flight controls. Every button, switch, and gauge in the cockpit is meticulously recreated, giving you an unparalleled sense of authenticity.

The game’s graphics, while not cutting-edge by today’s standards, were groundbreaking for their time. The smooth 3D animation brings the world to life, from the vast expanse of the ocean to the intricate details of the aircraft carrier. The attention to detail is simply stunning, with every aspect of the flight experience carefully rendered.

Embark on a Globe-Spanning Tour of Duty

F-18 Hornet takes you on a whirlwind tour of duty across the globe, with missions set in diverse and challenging environments. You’ll soar over the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, engage in aerial combat over the Persian Gulf, and execute precision strikes on enemy targets in the frozen wastelands of the Arctic. Each mission presents unique challenges, testing your skills as a pilot and your ability to adapt to a variety of combat scenarios.

The variety of missions is truly impressive, ranging from intense air-to-air dogfights to strategic bombing runs and daring rescue operations. You’ll face off against enemy jets, helicopters, and tanks, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The AI is surprisingly competent, providing a formidable challenge even for experienced pilots.

Master the Art of Aerial Combat

At the heart of F-18 Hornet lies its thrilling aerial combat system. The flight model is incredibly realistic, capturing the speed, agility, and maneuverability of the F/A-18 Hornet. You’ll need to master the art of dogfighting, using your superior skills and aircraft performance to outmaneuver and outgun your opponents.

The game’s combat mechanics are both accessible and rewarding. New players can easily pick up the basics, while experienced pilots will appreciate the depth and complexity of the flight model. The variety of weapons at your disposal, from air-to-air missiles to unguided bombs, allows you to adapt your tactics to different combat situations.

Experience the Thrill of Carrier Operations

One of the most iconic aspects of F-18 Hornet is its authentic depiction of carrier operations. You’ll experience the exhilaration of catapult launches, the precision of arrested landings, and the bustling activity of a fully operational aircraft carrier. The carrier serves as your home base, providing a safe haven to rearm, refuel, and repair your aircraft.

The carrier operations are meticulously recreated, adding an extra layer of realism to the gameplay. You’ll need to carefully manage your fuel and ammunition, and time your approaches and landings with precision. The sense of accomplishment you feel after successfully landing on the carrier after a perilous mission is truly unmatched.

A Timeless Classic for Flight Simulation Enthusiasts

F-18 Hornet (1988) stands as a timeless classic in the flight simulation genre. Its realistic gameplay, immersive graphics, and thrilling combat missions have captivated gamers for generations. While the graphics may not be up to modern standards, the game’s core gameplay remains as engaging and rewarding as ever.

If you’re a fan of flight simulation games, or if you’re simply looking for a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of gaming, F-18 Hornet (1988) is an absolute must-play. It’s a testament to the enduring power of classic games and a reminder of the incredible strides that have been made in the flight simulation genre over the past three decades.

Review Score

8/10

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