Platform: MSX

Amaurote (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Amaurote (1987): A Mastertronic Masterpiece

Released in 1987 by Mastertronic on their Mastertronic Added Dimension label, Amaurote is a British video game for 8-bit computer systems such as the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Amstrad CPC. The game was developed by Incentive Software and features music by the legendary David Whittaker.

Amaurote is a text adventure game with some graphical elements. The player controls a character named Sir Galahad, who is on a quest to find the Holy Grail. The game is set in a fantasy world filled with castles, dungeons, and dragons.

The gameplay in Amaurote is fairly standard for a text adventure game. The player explores the world by typing in commands such as “go north” or “use sword”. The game also features some simple puzzles that must be solved in order to progress.

One of the things that sets Amaurote apart from other text adventure games is its use of graphics. The game features a number of static screens that depict the various locations in the game world. These screens are not particularly detailed, but they do help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

Another thing that makes Amaurote unique is its soundtrack. The game’s music was composed by David Whittaker, who is known for his work on a number of other classic video games, such as Knight Lore and Saboteur. The music in Amaurote is atmospheric and haunting, and it helps to create a sense of mystery and adventure.

Amaurote was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. It was also one of the first text adventure games to feature a female protagonist, which was a groundbreaking move at the time.

Today, Amaurote is still considered to be one of the best text adventure games ever made. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience. If you are a fan of text adventure games, or if you are just looking for a classic game to play, then I highly recommend Amaurote.

Gameplay

Amaurote is a text adventure game with some graphical elements. The player controls a character named Sir Galahad, who is on a quest to find the Holy Grail. The game is set in a fantasy world filled with castles, dungeons, and dragons.

The gameplay in Amaurote is fairly standard for a text adventure game. The player explores the world by typing in commands such as “go north” or “use sword”. The game also features some simple puzzles that must be solved in order to progress.

One of the things that sets Amaurote apart from other text adventure games is its use of graphics. The game features a number of static screens that depict the various locations in the game world. These screens are not particularly detailed, but they do help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

Another thing that makes Amaurote unique is its soundtrack. The game’s music was composed by David Whittaker, who is known for his work on a number of other classic video games, such as Knight Lore and Saboteur. The music in Amaurote is atmospheric and haunting, and it helps to create a sense of mystery and adventure.

Story

The story of Amaurote is relatively simple. The player controls a character named Sir Galahad, who is on a quest to find the Holy Grail. The game is set in a fantasy world filled with castles, dungeons, and dragons.

Along the way, Galahad must overcome a number of obstacles, including treacherous terrain, dangerous enemies, and cunning puzzles. He must also use his wits and courage to solve the many challenges that he faces.

The story of Amaurote is not particularly original, but it is well-written and engaging. The game’s characters are well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns.

Graphics

The graphics in Amaurote are simple, but effective. The game features a number of static screens that depict the various locations in the game world. These screens are not particularly detailed, but they do help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

The character sprites in Amaurote are also simple, but they are well-animated. The characters move fluidly and realistically, and they are easy to distinguish from one another.

Overall, the graphics in Amaurote are not particularly impressive by today’s standards, but they are still effective and charming.

Sound

The sound in Amaurote is excellent. The game’s music was composed by David Whittaker, who is known for his work on a number of other classic video games, such as Knight Lore and Saboteur. The music in Amaurote is atmospheric and haunting, and it helps to create a sense of mystery and adventure.

The sound effects in Amaurote are also well-done. The sound of swords clashing, arrows flying, and dragons roaring is all very realistic and immersive.

Overall, the sound in Amaurote is excellent and it helps to create a truly immersive experience.

Overall

Amaurote is a classic text adventure game that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and the story is well-written and engaging. If you are a fan of text adventure games, or if you are just looking for a classic game to play, then I highly recommend Amaurote.

Review Score

8/10

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Buggy Ranger (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Buggy Ranger: A Unique Side-Scrolling Shooter from the Arcade Era

Released in 1990, Buggy Ranger is a side-scrolling shooter arcade game that stands out with its unique gameplay mechanic and vibrant pixel art. Developed by Compile, the game puts players in control of a transformable buggy vehicle as they battle against waves of enemy forces.

Gameplay: A Blend of Action and Strategy

Buggy Ranger combines fast-paced shooting action with strategic elements. The game’s defining feature is its transformable buggy, which consists of two modules: a terrestrial tank-like base and a detachable steering wheel module. Players can switch between these modules on the fly, adapting to different combat situations.

In its tank mode, the buggy is a powerful ground vehicle with heavy firepower. It can fire a spread of bullets forward and drop bombs to clear out ground-based enemies. However, it is relatively slow and vulnerable to aerial attacks.

The steering wheel module transforms the buggy into a nimble aerial vehicle. It can fly over obstacles, dodge enemy fire, and engage in aerial combat. The steering wheel module is equipped with a rapid-fire laser weapon that can take down enemy aircraft and ground targets alike.

The key to success in Buggy Ranger lies in mastering the transformation mechanic and using the right module for the right situation. Players must quickly adapt to the changing battlefield, switching between tank and aerial modes to overcome enemy defenses and achieve victory.

Levels and Enemies

Buggy Ranger takes players through a series of vibrant and challenging levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and obstacles. Players will encounter a diverse array of foes, including tanks, aircraft, turrets, and giant bosses.

The game’s levels are designed with a mix of open spaces and narrow corridors, forcing players to adjust their strategies accordingly. Some levels feature branching paths, allowing players to choose their own route through the stage.

Power-Ups and Upgrades

Throughout the game, players can collect power-ups that enhance their buggy’s capabilities. These power-ups can increase firepower, speed, or grant special abilities, such as the ability to fire homing missiles or create a protective shield.

In addition, players can upgrade their buggy between levels using the points they earn from defeating enemies. Upgrades can improve the buggy’s base stats, such as health, speed, and firepower, as well as unlock new abilities and weapons.

Graphics and Sound

Buggy Ranger is known for its vibrant and detailed pixel art graphics. The game’s environments are colorful and varied, ranging from lush forests to icy wastelands. The character and enemy designs are also well-crafted and full of personality.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of upbeat and intense electronic music that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay. The sound effects are also well-executed, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Legacy and Impact

Buggy Ranger was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among arcade enthusiasts. The game’s unique transformable buggy mechanic set it apart from other side-scrolling shooters of the era and has inspired similar concepts in later games.

Buggy Ranger has been ported to various home platforms over the years, including the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, and PlayStation. It has also been included in several arcade compilations and is available on modern digital distribution platforms.

Conclusion

Buggy Ranger is a timeless side-scrolling shooter that combines fast-paced action with strategic gameplay. Its unique transformable buggy mechanic and vibrant pixel art graphics make it a standout title from the arcade era. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering the game for the first time, Buggy Ranger is sure to provide hours of challenging and rewarding entertainment.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

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El Cid (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

El Cid: A Historical Strategy Classic

Released in 1987, El Cid is a turn-based strategy game that puts players in command of the legendary Spanish knight El Cid during the Reconquista, the period of Spanish history in which Christian kingdoms gradually reconquered the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule.

The game is played on a map of Spain, divided into provinces. Each province has a number of attributes, including population, resources, and defenses. Players must manage their resources carefully in order to build armies, construct buildings, and research new technologies.

Armies can be used to attack enemy provinces or defend your own. Combat is resolved through a simple dice-rolling system. The outcome of battle depends on a number of factors, including the size and quality of the armies involved, the terrain, and the weather.

In addition to military conquest, players can also win by achieving certain economic or diplomatic goals. For example, players can win by converting all of the provinces in Spain to Christianity, or by building a powerful trade empire.

El Cid is a challenging and rewarding strategy game that offers a unique blend of historical accuracy and gameplay depth. The game’s pixel art graphics are charming and evocative, and the soundtrack is appropriately epic.

Gameplay

El Cid is a turn-based strategy game in which players control El Cid and his army as they attempt to reconquer Spain from the Moors. The game is played on a map of Spain, which is divided into provinces. Each province has a number of attributes, including population, resources, and defenses.

Players must manage their resources carefully in order to build armies, construct buildings, and research new technologies. Armies can be used to attack enemy provinces or defend your own. Combat is resolved through a simple dice-rolling system. The outcome of battle depends on a number of factors, including the size and quality of the armies involved, the terrain, and the weather.

In addition to military conquest, players can also win by achieving certain economic or diplomatic goals. For example, players can win by converting all of the provinces in Spain to Christianity, or by building a powerful trade empire.

El Cid features a number of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Infantry units are good for defense and can hold their ground in battle. Cavalry units are faster and can deal more damage, but they are also more vulnerable to attack. Archers can attack from a distance, but they are weak in close combat.

Players can also construct a variety of buildings in each province. These buildings can provide a number of benefits, such as increasing production, providing defensive bonuses, or generating new units.

El Cid also features a number of different technologies that players can research. These technologies can provide a variety of benefits, such as increasing the size of armies, improving combat abilities, or reducing the cost of buildings.

Historical Accuracy

El Cid is based on the historical figure of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, a Castilian knight who fought against the Moors during the Reconquista. The game’s story follows El Cid’s career from his early days as a young knight to his eventual rise to become a legendary hero.

The game’s developers took great care to ensure that the game was historically accurate. The map of Spain is based on the actual geography of the Iberian Peninsula during the Reconquista. The game’s units and buildings are also based on historical research.

El Cid is not only a fun and challenging strategy game, but it is also a valuable educational tool. The game can teach players about the history of Spain and the Reconquista.

Legacy

El Cid was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its historical accuracy, gameplay depth, and charming graphics. El Cid has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among strategy fans today.

El Cid has also been cited as an influence on a number of other strategy games, including Civilization and Age of Empires. The game’s unique blend of historical accuracy and gameplay depth has made it a classic of the genre.

Conclusion

El Cid is a timeless strategy classic that offers a unique blend of historical accuracy and gameplay depth. The game’s pixel art graphics are charming and evocative, and the soundtrack is appropriately epic. Whether you’re a fan of history, strategy games, or both, El Cid is a game that you should definitely check out.

Review Score

8/10

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3D Pool (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

3D Pool (1989): A Revolutionary Pool Simulation

Prepare yourself for a groundbreaking pool experience that will transport you to the billiards hall like never before. 3D Pool, released in 1989, shattered the boundaries of pool simulations by introducing stunning 3D graphics and an immersive gameplay experience.

True-to-Life 3D Environment

3D Pool was the first computer game to present a truly three-dimensional pool table, allowing players to view the table from virtually any angle imaginable. This groundbreaking technology revolutionized the pool gaming genre, providing an unparalleled sense of depth and realism.

The game’s graphics, while simple by today’s standards, were nothing short of astonishing at the time. The pool table, balls, and cue stick were rendered in meticulous detail, creating a virtual billiards hall that was both visually appealing and highly immersive.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

Beyond its impressive graphics, 3D Pool introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that set it apart from its predecessors. Players could rotate and tilt the cue ball with precision, allowing for a wide range of shots and strategies. This level of control was unprecedented in pool simulations, opening up new possibilities for skilled players.

The game also featured a variety of game modes, including 8-ball, 9-ball, and straight pool. Each mode offered its own unique challenges, catering to players of all skill levels.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Upon its release, 3D Pool garnered widespread critical acclaim for its groundbreaking graphics and innovative gameplay. It quickly became a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

3D Pool’s legacy extends far beyond its initial release. It is widely regarded as one of the most influential pool simulations ever created, inspiring countless future games in the genre. Its impact can still be seen in modern pool games, which continue to incorporate many of the features and mechanics pioneered by 3D Pool.

A Timeless Classic

More than three decades after its initial release, 3D Pool remains a beloved classic among pool enthusiasts and retro gaming fans alike. Its innovative gameplay and groundbreaking graphics continue to captivate players, offering a truly immersive and realistic pool simulation experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned pool shark or a casual gamer looking for a nostalgic experience, 3D Pool (1989) is a must-play. Its timeless appeal and groundbreaking features make it a true gem in the history of video games.

Tips for Playing 3D Pool

  • Master the Cue Ball: Controlling the cue ball is key to success in 3D Pool. Practice rotating and tilting the ball to achieve precise shots.

  • Study the Table: Take your time to observe the table layout and plan your shots carefully. Consider the angles and positions of the balls to maximize your chances of success.

  • Experiment with Spin: Adding spin to the cue ball can significantly alter its trajectory and the path of the object balls. Experiment with different spin techniques to master the art of trick shots.

  • Play Different Game Modes: Each game mode in 3D Pool offers its own unique challenges. Practice in different modes to improve your overall skills and strategy.

  • Don’t Be Afraid to Lose: Losing is a natural part of learning any game. Use your losses as opportunities to identify areas for improvement and refine your techniques.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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Knight Lore (1984)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Knight Lore: A seminal adventure in gaming history

In the annals of gaming history, few titles have left as indelible a mark as Knight Lore, the groundbreaking 1984 adventure game that redefined the genre and set a new standard for immersive storytelling. Developed by Ultimate Play the Game and released on the ZX Spectrum, Knight Lore was the third installment in the Sabreman series, but the first to be completed and released.

A revolutionary concept

Knight Lore introduced a number of innovative concepts that were revolutionary for their time. It was the first game to feature a true 3D environment, albeit one that was rendered in monochrome on the ZX Spectrum’s limited hardware. The player navigated through a series of interconnected rooms, each of which was depicted on its own screen and consisted of blocks to climb, obstacles to avoid, and items to collect.

Another groundbreaking feature of Knight Lore was its day/night cycle. The player had forty days to collect the objects needed to brew a cure for Sabreman’s werewolf curse, and the time of day had a significant impact on gameplay. At night, Sabreman would transform into a werewolf, becoming faster and stronger but also more vulnerable to attack. During the day, he would return to human form, allowing him to interact with objects and solve puzzles more easily.

An atmospheric and immersive experience

Knight Lore’s graphics, while simple by today’s standards, were highly detailed and atmospheric for their time. The game’s monochrome palette was used to great effect, creating a sense of depth and realism that was unmatched by other games of the era. The sound design was also top-notch, with eerie sound effects and a haunting soundtrack that added to the game’s immersive atmosphere.

Challenging puzzles and rewarding exploration

Knight Lore was not just a graphical showcase, however. It also featured some of the most challenging and rewarding puzzles ever devised in a video game. The player had to use their wits to solve a variety of puzzles, from simple navigation challenges to complex logic puzzles. The game also rewarded exploration, with hidden items and secret areas to discover.

A critical and commercial success

Upon its release, Knight Lore was met with critical acclaim and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, atmospheric graphics, and challenging puzzles. The game sold over 100,000 copies, making it one of the best-selling ZX Spectrum games of all time.

A lasting legacy

Knight Lore’s influence on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. It was one of the first games to truly demonstrate the potential of 3D graphics and immersive storytelling, and it set a new standard for adventure games. The game’s legacy can be seen in countless other titles, from the Legend of Zelda series to the modern-day hit Minecraft.

Conclusion

Knight Lore is a true classic of gaming, a game that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on home computers and set a new standard for adventure games. Its innovative gameplay, atmospheric graphics, and challenging puzzles have stood the test of time, and it remains a must-play for any fan of retro gaming or adventure games in general.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

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Champion Soccer (1984)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Champion Soccer (1984)

Champion Soccer is a soccer video game developed and published by Alpha Denshi for the Nintendo Famicom in 1984. It was released in Japan as Champion Soccer, and in North America as Nintendo Soccer. It is one of the earliest soccer games released for a home video game console, and is notable for its realistic gameplay and detailed graphics.

Gameplay

Champion Soccer is a top-down soccer game in which the player controls a team of eleven players. The game can be played with one or two players, and there are three difficulty levels to choose from. The player can choose to play a single match, a tournament, or a league season.

The gameplay is simple but challenging. The player uses the D-pad to move their players around the field, and the A and B buttons to pass and shoot the ball. The game features realistic physics, and the ball moves realistically based on the player’s input.

Graphics and sound

Champion Soccer’s graphics are impressive for a game released in 1984. The players are small and detailed, and the field is large and well-defined. The game also features a variety of weather effects, such as rain and snow.

The sound in Champion Soccer is simple but effective. The crowd cheers and chants, and the referee blows his whistle to start and stop play.

Reception

Champion Soccer was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its realistic gameplay, detailed graphics, and challenging AI. The game was also a hit with fans of soccer, and it is still considered one of the best soccer games ever released.

Legacy

Champion Soccer had a significant impact on the development of soccer video games. It was one of the first soccer games to feature realistic gameplay and detailed graphics, and it set the standard for future soccer games. The game also helped to popularize soccer in Japan, and it is still considered one of the most important soccer games ever released in the country.

Conclusion

Champion Soccer is a classic soccer game that still holds up today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that is sure to please fans of soccer and retro gaming alike.

Tips for playing Champion Soccer

  • Use the D-pad to move your players around the field.
  • Use the A button to pass the ball, and the B button to shoot.
  • Use the Select button to change the camera angle.
  • Use the Start button to pause the game.
  • There are three difficulty levels to choose from: Easy, Normal, and Hard.
  • You can choose to play a single match, a tournament, or a league season.
  • The game features a variety of weather effects, such as rain and snow.
  • The crowd cheers and chants, and the referee blows his whistle to start and stop play.

Review Score

8/10

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Lode Runner (1983)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Lode Runner: A Classic Puzzle Game That Still Holds Up Today

Released in 1983, Lode Runner is a puzzle game that tasks players with guiding a miner named Lode Runner through a series of caves, collecting treasure and avoiding enemies. The game is notable for its innovative level editor, which allows players to create their own levels and share them with others.

Lode Runner was a critical and commercial success, and it has been ported to numerous platforms over the years. The game has also been praised for its simple but addictive gameplay, and it remains a popular choice for puzzle game fans today.

Gameplay

The goal of Lode Runner is to collect all of the treasure in a level while avoiding enemies. Lode Runner can dig holes to create platforms and traps, and he can also use bombs to destroy enemies. The game features a variety of different enemies, each with their own unique abilities.

Lode Runner is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The levels are well-designed and there is a great sense of satisfaction to be gained from completing a difficult level. The game also has a lot of replay value, thanks to the level editor.

Level Editor

One of the things that makes Lode Runner so special is its level editor. The level editor is easy to use, and it allows players to create their own levels or modify existing levels. Players can share their levels with others online, and there is a large community of Lode Runner fans who have created thousands of levels.

The level editor has also been used to create some very challenging levels. Some of these levels are so difficult that they have never been completed. However, there is a sense of accomplishment to be gained from completing a difficult level, and the level editor provides a great way for players to challenge themselves.

Graphics and Sound

Lode Runner’s graphics are simple, but they are effective. The game’s characters and environments are easy to辨識, and the game runs smoothly even on older computers. The game’s sound effects are also simple, but they are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere.

Conclusion

Lode Runner is a classic puzzle game that still holds up today. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, combined with its innovative level editor, make it a game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. If you are a fan of puzzle games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Lode Runner.

Additional Information

  • Lode Runner was developed by Doug Smith and Dan Gorlin.
  • The game was originally released for the Apple II, but it was later ported to numerous other platforms, including the Commodore 64, the Atari 2600, and the Nintendo Entertainment System.
  • Lode Runner has been praised for its simple but addictive gameplay, and it has been cited as an influence on many other puzzle games.
  • The game has been featured in several video game magazines and books, and it has been included in several video game anthologies.
  • Lode Runner is still enjoyed by many people today, and there is a large community of fans who create and share custom levels.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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HardBall! (1985)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

HardBall! (1985): The NES Baseball Classic That Changed the Game

HardBall! is a baseball game developed by Accolade and released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985. It was one of the first console baseball games to feature realistic gameplay and managerial options, and it quickly became a classic among NES fans.

Gameplay

HardBall! is played from a top-down perspective, with the player controlling a single team member at a time. The game can be played with either a joystick or the arrow keys, and the action button is used to swing the bat, throw the ball, or field the ball.

Pitching is controlled by using the four cardinal directions to choose the pitch type and location. The same directions are used to aim the swing when batting. When fielding after a hit, the defensive player closest to the ball will flash to show it is the one currently under control. The four directions are then used to throw to one of the four bases.

HardBall! also incorporates a pitcher perspective, which is often used in MLB broadcasts. This gives the player a better view of the strike zone and makes it easier to pitch to specific locations.

Managerial Options

In addition to the on-field gameplay, HardBall! also features a number of managerial options. The player can choose from a variety of pitchers and batters, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player can also rearrange the batting order and defensive alignment.

The managerial options in HardBall! are relatively simple, but they add a layer of strategy to the game. The player must carefully consider which players to start and where to position them in order to maximize their chances of winning.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in HardBall! are simple but effective. The players and the ball are all represented by small sprites, but the game does a good job of conveying the action on the field. The sound effects are also well done, and they help to create a realistic atmosphere.

Reception

HardBall! was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its realistic gameplay, managerial options, and fun factor. The game was also a financial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

HardBall! has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the Game Boy, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and Sega Genesis. It has also been released on a number of compilation discs and digital storefronts.

Legacy

HardBall! is considered to be one of the greatest NES games of all time. It was one of the first console baseball games to feature realistic gameplay and managerial options, and it helped to popularize the genre. HardBall! also had a significant impact on the development of future baseball games, and its influence can still be seen in many of the games that are released today.

Conclusion

HardBall! is a classic NES baseball game that is still enjoyed by fans today. It is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a fun and challenging baseball game. With its realistic gameplay, managerial options, and fun factor, HardBall! is a game that will keep you coming back for more.

Here are some additional details and trivia about HardBall!:

  • The game was originally developed for the Commodore 64, but it was eventually ported to the NES due to the console’s popularity.
  • The NES version of HardBall! was released in Japan under the title Exciting Baseball.
  • The game features a number of hidden codes that can be used to unlock different features, such as a “big head” mode and a “cheat” mode that gives the player an unfair advantage.
  • HardBall! was one of the first NES games to feature a battery backup, which allowed players to save their progress.
  • The game was followed by a number of sequels, including HardBall II (1989), HardBall III (1991), and HardBall 6 (1995).

Review Score

8/10

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Knight Orc (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Knight Orc: A Unique and Hilarious Blend of Fantasy and Science Fiction

Knight Orc is a 1987 text adventure game developed by Level 9 and released for a variety of platforms, including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Amstrad CPC. The game is notable for its unique blend of fantasy and science fiction elements, as well as its humorous tone.

The game begins with the player character, Grindleguts the orc, waking up strapped to a horse and about to joust with a human knight. Grindleguts has no memory of how he got into this situation, and his “friends” are nowhere to be seen. The player must then guide Grindleguts through a series of challenges in order to escape from his predicament and get revenge on his tormentors.

The first part of the game takes place in a traditional fantasy setting, with Grindleguts interacting with a variety of characters, including elves, dwarves, and dragons. However, after the first chapter, the game takes a surprising turn and switches to a science fiction setting. Grindleguts is revealed to be a malfunctioning non-player character in a futuristic MMORPG, and he must use his power of transitioning between fantasy and reality to escape from the simulated reality facility.

Along the way, Grindleguts meets a cast of quirky and memorable characters, including a talking dog, a robot butler, and a mad scientist. The game’s dialogue is full of humor and wit, and the puzzles are challenging but fair.

Gameplay

Knight Orc is a standard text adventure game, with the player interacting with the game world by typing commands. The game features a variety of puzzles, including inventory puzzles, logic puzzles, and combat encounters. The game also features a unique “reality hopping” mechanic, which allows Grindleguts to switch between the fantasy and science fiction settings.

Reception

Knight Orc was met with positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised the game’s unique blend of fantasy and science fiction elements, as well as its humorous tone. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Knight Orc is considered to be one of the classic text adventure games of the 1980s. The game’s unique blend of genres and its humorous tone have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. Knight Orc has also been cited as an influence on later games, such as the Ultima series and the Fallout series.

Conclusion

Knight Orc is a unique and hilarious text adventure game that is sure to entertain fans of the genre. The game’s blend of fantasy and science fiction elements, as well as its humorous tone, make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Review Score

8/10

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Chubby Gristle (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Chubby Gristle: A Review

Chubby Gristle is a 1988 platformer game developed by Gremlin Graphics and published by US Gold. The game stars Chubby Gristle, a morbidly obese car park attendant who must eat his way through 20 screens of food and avoid hazards in order to reach his goal of weighing one ton.

Chubby Gristle is a unique and quirky game that stands out from other platformers of its era. The game’s protagonist is instantly memorable, and his quest to become a one-ton giant is both amusing and oddly endearing. The game’s levels are well-designed and offer a variety of challenges, and the gameplay is simple yet addictive.

Gameplay

Chubby Gristle is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Chubby as he walks, jumps, and eats his way through each level. Chubby can also collect items that can help him on his journey, such as food that can restore his health or power-ups that can give him special abilities.

The game’s levels are filled with a variety of hazards, such as enemies, traps, and obstacles. Chubby must avoid these hazards while collecting food and items in order to reach the end of each level.

Graphics and Sound

Chubby Gristle’s graphics are colorful and cartoony, and the game’s characters and environments are well-drawn and detailed. The game’s music is catchy and upbeat, and it helps to create a fun and lighthearted atmosphere.

Story

Chubby Gristle is a simple game with a simple story. Chubby wants to become a one-ton giant, and he must eat his way through 20 screens of food in order to achieve his goal. Along the way, he must avoid hazards and collect items that can help him on his journey.

Reception

Chubby Gristle was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its unique and quirky gameplay, its well-designed levels, and its charming graphics and sound. Chubby Gristle was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Chubby Gristle is considered to be one of the best platformers of its era. The game’s unique gameplay and memorable protagonist have made it a cult classic among retro gamers. Chubby Gristle has also been cited as an influence on later platformers, such as Super Mario World and Donkey Kong Country.

Conclusion

Chubby Gristle is a classic platformer that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s unique gameplay, charming graphics and sound, and memorable protagonist make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Tips for Playing Chubby Gristle

Here are a few tips for playing Chubby Gristle:

  • Collect as much food as you can. Food is essential for restoring Chubby’s health and keeping him going.
  • Be careful of hazards. The game’s levels are filled with hazards, such as enemies, traps, and obstacles. Avoid these hazards as much as possible.
  • Use items to your advantage. The game’s levels contain a variety of items that can help Chubby on his journey. Use these items to your advantage to overcome challenges and reach the end of each level.
  • Don’t give up! Chubby Gristle can be a challenging game, but don’t give up if you get stuck. Keep trying and you will eventually reach your goal of becoming a one-ton giant.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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