Platform: Sega CD

The Adventures of Willy Beamish (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

The Adventures of Willy Beamish: A Nostalgic Journey into Childhood Mischief

Released in 1991, The Adventures of Willy Beamish is a point-and-click graphical adventure game that captured the hearts of gamers with its charming protagonist, witty dialogue, and challenging puzzles. Step into the shoes of Willy Beamish, an eight-year-old boy on a summer vacation filled with misadventures, pranks, and the trials of growing up.

A World of Childhood Antics

Willy Beamish is a relatable and mischievous character who embodies the spirit of childhood. From his love of pranks to his aversion to chores, Willy’s antics will resonate with anyone who has ever been a kid. The game’s world is filled with colorful characters, including Willy’s parents, teachers, babysitters, and bratty sisters. Each interaction is a chance for Willy to outsmart the adults and get into trouble, much to the delight of players.

Gameplay: Puzzles, Time Management, and Parental Relationships

The Adventures of Willy Beamish presents a unique blend of puzzle-solving, time management, and relationship management. Players must guide Willy through various puzzles, ensuring he gets to the right place at the right time to avoid trouble. The game’s innovative time mechanic adds an extra layer of challenge, as in-game time progresses even when no action is taken.

Another unique aspect of the game is the “Parent-O-Meter.” Willy’s relationship with his parents is affected by his actions throughout the game. If Willy misbehaves or gets into too much trouble, the Parent-O-Meter will fill up, and he risks being sent to military school. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must carefully consider the consequences of their actions.

Nostalgia and Modern Relevance

The Adventures of Willy Beamish holds a special place in the hearts of gamers who grew up in the early 90s. Its charming pixel art, catchy music, and witty dialogue evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. However, the game’s themes of childhood, mischief, and the challenges of growing up remain relevant to this day.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, The Adventures of Willy Beamish received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and clever writing. It was praised for its ability to capture the essence of childhood and provide a challenging and entertaining experience. The game has since been recognized as a classic of the adventure game genre and continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages.

Conclusion

The Adventures of Willy Beamish is a timeless adventure game that celebrates the joys and challenges of childhood. With its lovable protagonist, witty dialogue, and innovative gameplay, the game has left a lasting impression on gamers for over three decades. Whether you’re a nostalgic fan or a newcomer to the world of Willy Beamish, this classic adventure is sure to provide hours of entertainment and a nostalgic journey back to the days of summer vacations and childhood mischief.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Dungeon Explorer (1995)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 4 minutes read

Summary

Dungeon Explorer (1995): A Hidden Gem on the Sega Mega-CD

Released in 1995 for the Sega Mega-CD, Dungeon Explorer is an action RPG that flew under the radar for many gamers. Developed by Westone and Hudson Soft, it’s not a port of the earlier Dungeon Explorer game released for the PC Engine in 1989, but rather a new game designed to play more like Atari Games’s Gauntlet.

Gameplay

Dungeon Explorer is a top-down action RPG in which players control a party of four adventurers as they explore a dungeon, battling monsters and traps. The game features four playable characters: a warrior, a mage, an elf, and a dwarf. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyles.

The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with players constantly moving and attacking to survive. The dungeon is procedurally generated, so each playthrough is different. There are a variety of different monsters to battle, as well as traps and puzzles to solve.

Story

The story of Dungeon Explorer is simple but effective. The player’s party of adventurers is hired to explore a dungeon and defeat the evil wizard who resides within. Along the way, they will face all sorts of challenges, including monsters, traps, and puzzles.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Dungeon Explorer are colorful and detailed, with a lot of variety in the environments and enemies. The sound is also top-notch, with a catchy soundtrack and great sound effects.

Overall

Dungeon Explorer is a great action RPG that is still fun to play today. It’s got a lot of replayability value, thanks to the procedurally generated dungeons and the variety of different characters to play as. If you’re a fan of action RPGs, or if you’re just looking for a hidden gem on the Sega Mega-CD, then I highly recommend checking out Dungeon Explorer.

Here are some additional details about the game:

  • The game was originally released in Japan as Dragon View.
  • The game was ported to the PlayStation in 1996.
  • The game was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2007.
  • The game is known for its high difficulty level.
  • The game has a cult following among fans of action RPGs.

If you’re interested in learning more about Dungeon Explorer, here are some additional resources:

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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Night Trap (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Night Trap: A Pioneering FMV Horror Classic

Released in 1992 for the Sega CD, Night Trap is a pioneering FMV horror game that pushed the boundaries of gaming technology and storytelling. Developed by Digital Pictures, the game featured a cast of live actors and actresses, and used full-motion video (FMV) to create a truly immersive and suspenseful experience.

Gameplay

Night Trap is a unique blend of horror and puzzle-solving. Players take on the role of a special agent tasked with protecting five teenage girls from a group of vampires. The game is played from a first-person perspective, and players use a variety of traps and weapons to keep the vampires at bay.

The game is set in a large house, and players must navigate through a series of rooms, setting traps and ambushes for the vampires. Players must carefully manage their resources, as they only have a limited number of traps and weapons at their disposal.

Story

The story of Night Trap is simple but effective. Five teenage girls go to a party at a large house, and they soon find themselves being hunted by a group of vampires. The player character must protect the girls from the vampires, and uncover the mystery behind their disappearance.

Legacy

Night Trap was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the use of FMV in video games. The game’s innovative gameplay and suspenseful story have made it a cult classic, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Controversy

Night Trap was also a controversial game, due to its graphic violence and sexual content. The game was criticized by some for being too violent and exploitative, and it was even banned in some countries. However, the game’s developers defended the game’s content, arguing that it was necessary to create a truly immersive and suspenseful experience.

Impact

Night Trap had a significant impact on the video game industry. The game’s use of FMV helped to pave the way for future FMV games, and its innovative gameplay mechanics have been imitated by many other games. Night Trap is also credited with helping to popularize the horror genre in video games.

Review

Night Trap is a unique and innovative game that combines the elements of a horror movie with a puzzle game. It’s a challenging and suspenseful experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The game’s graphics are dated by today’s standards, but the gameplay is still solid, and the story is still suspenseful. If you’re a fan of horror games, or if you’re just looking for a unique and challenging gaming experience, then I highly recommend Night Trap.

Score: 7/10

Pros:

  • Innovative gameplay
  • Suspenseful story
  • Immersive FMV graphics

Cons:

  • Dated graphics
  • Limited replayability
  • Controversial content

Overall, Night Trap is a pioneering FMV horror game that deserves its place in gaming history. It’s a challenging and suspenseful experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re a fan of horror games, or if you’re just looking for a unique and challenging gaming experience, then I highly recommend Night Trap.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

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Final Fight CD (1993)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

Final Fight CD: The Definitive Beat ‘Em Up

When Final Fight hit arcades in 1989, it was an instant classic. The game’s groundbreaking graphics, innovative gameplay, and catchy music made it a huge hit with gamers of all ages. Three years later, Final Fight CD was released for the Sega CD, and it remains the definitive version of the game to this day.

Graphics

The graphics in Final Fight CD are a major improvement over the original arcade game. The characters are larger and more detailed, and the backgrounds are more colorful and vibrant. The game also runs at a higher resolution, which makes the graphics even sharper.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Final Fight CD is identical to the original arcade game. Players control one of three characters – Haggar, Cody, or Guy – and fight their way through six levels of increasingly difficult enemies. The game can be played by one or two players, and there is also a versus mode.

One of the things that makes Final Fight CD so great is its variety of enemies. There are dozens of different types of enemies to fight, each with their own unique attacks and abilities. This keeps the game from getting repetitive, and it ensures that there is always a new challenge to overcome.

Music

The music in Final Fight CD is some of the best in the series. The soundtrack is composed by Yoko Shimomura, who is also known for her work on the Street Fighter II and Kingdom Hearts soundtracks. The music is catchy and upbeat, and it perfectly complements the game’s fast-paced action.

Overall

Final Fight CD is a classic beat ’em up that still holds up today. The graphics are sharp, the music is great, and the gameplay is addicting. If you’re a fan of the genre, you owe it to yourself to check this one out.

Final Fight CD: A Deeper Dive

The Characters

Haggar is the mayor of Metro City and a former professional wrestler. He is a large and powerful character, and he is known for his devastating piledriver.

Cody is a former street fighter who is now a private detective. He is a skilled fighter, and he is known for his quick reflexes and his powerful uppercut.

Guy is a ninja who is on a quest to avenge the death of his master. He is a fast and agile fighter, and he is known for his deadly shurikens.

The Levels

The six levels in Final Fight CD are:

  • Slums: The first level takes place in the slums of Metro City. The enemies in this level are mostly punks and thugs.
  • Industrial Area: The second level takes place in an industrial area. The enemies in this level are mostly robots and cyborgs.
  • Bay Area: The third level takes place in the bay area of Metro City. The enemies in this level are mostly sailors and pirates.
  • Residential Area: The fourth level takes place in a residential area. The enemies in this level are mostly gangsters and ninjas.
  • Skyscraper: The fifth level takes place in a skyscraper. The enemies in this level are mostly Mad Gear Gang members.
  • Mad Gear Hideout: The sixth and final level takes place in the Mad Gear Hideout. The enemies in this level are the toughest in the game, and they include the final boss, Abigail.

The Enemies

There are dozens of different types of enemies in Final Fight CD. Some of the most common enemies include:

  • Punks: Punks are the weakest enemies in the game. They are easy to defeat, but they can be annoying in large numbers.
  • Thugs: Thugs are stronger than punks, but they are still relatively easy to defeat.
  • Robots: Robots are powerful enemies that can take a lot of damage. They are also immune to certain types of attacks.
  • Cyborgs: Cyborgs are even more powerful than robots. They are fast, strong, and they can shoot lasers.
  • Sailors: Sailors are tough enemies that can attack with knives or guns.
  • Pirates: Pirates are even tougher than sailors. They can attack with swords or cannons.
  • Gangsters: Gangsters are the main enemies in Final Fight CD. They are well-armed and they are not afraid to use dirty tactics.
  • Ninjas: Ninjas are fast and agile enemies that can attack with shurikens or swords.
  • Mad Gear Gang members: Mad Gear Gang members are the toughest enemies in the game. They are heavily armed and they are not afraid to die.

The Bosses

There are three bosses in Final Fight CD:

  • Sodom: Sodom is the boss of the first level. He is a large and powerful wrestler who is known for his devastating piledriver.
  • Rolento: Rolento is the boss of the second level. He is a skilled military commander who is known for his use of grenades and machine guns.
  • Abigail: Abigail is the final boss of Final Fight CD. He is a huge and powerful monster who is known for his devastating strength.

Tips for Playing Final Fight CD

Here are a few tips for playing Final Fight CD:

  • Choose the right character for your play style. Haggar is the best character for beginners, as he is slow but powerful. Cody is a good choice for players who want to be able to move quickly and attack from a distance. Guy is the best choice for players who want to be able to attack quickly and dodge enemy attacks.
  • Learn the enemy patterns. Each enemy in Final Fight CD has its own unique attack patterns. By learning these patterns, you can avoid getting hit and defeat your enemies more easily.
  • Use the environment to your advantage. There are many objects in the environment that you can use to your advantage, such as barrels, crates, and cars. You can use these objects to block enemy attacks, trap enemies, or even attack enemies.
  • Don’t be afraid to use special moves. Each character in Final Fight CD has a variety of special moves that can be used to deal heavy damage to enemies. Don’t be afraid to use these moves when you need them.
  • Be patient. Final Fight CD is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. If you are patient and you learn from your mistakes, you will eventually be able to beat the game.

Conclusion

Final Fight CD is a classic beat ’em up that still holds up today. The graphics are sharp, the music is great, and the gameplay is addicting. If you’re a fan of the genre, you owe it to yourself to check this one out.

Review Score

8/10

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Ground Zero: Texas (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Ground Zero: Texas (1993): A Chilling Interactive Movie Experience

Released in 1993 by CD Interactive, Ground Zero: Texas is a unique and chilling interactive movie game that combines horror and action. Set in a sleepy little town on the Texas/Mexico border, the game follows a group of government agents who are investigating a series of strange disappearances.

The player takes on the role of a technician who operates a network of gun cameras mounted around the town. Using these cameras, the player must monitor the town for alien activity and use the cameras’ powerful weapons to protect the lives of the citizens and the agents.

Ground Zero: Texas is a groundbreaking game for its time, and it remains a cult classic among fans of horror and interactive movies. The game’s unique gameplay, creepy atmosphere, and memorable characters make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Gameplay

Ground Zero: Texas is played from a first-person perspective. The player uses a network of gun cameras to monitor the town for alien activity. When aliens are spotted, the player can use the cameras’ powerful weapons to kill them. The player must also protect the lives of the citizens and the agents, who are often targeted by the aliens.

The game is divided into a series of levels, each of which takes place in a different location in the town. The player must complete a variety of objectives in each level, such as finding missing people, rescuing hostages, and destroying alien nests.

Setting

Ground Zero: Texas is set in a small town on the Texas/Mexico border. The town is a sleepy place, but it is soon overrun by aliens who are snatching bodies and paving the way for a greater invasion. Those who are abducted return as Pod People-like drones, normal in appearance until they reveal themselves.

The game’s setting is both eerie and atmospheric. The small town is a perfect place for the aliens to hide, and the player is constantly on edge, waiting for the next attack.

Characters

The player character in Ground Zero: Texas is a technician who is tasked with operating the town’s network of gun cameras. The player character is never seen, but they play a vital role in the game.

The game also features a cast of supporting characters, including the mayor, the sheriff, and a group of government agents. These characters provide the player with information and assistance, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.

Atmosphere

Ground Zero: Texas is a very atmospheric game. The game’s dark and eerie setting, combined with the constant threat of alien attack, creates a sense of tension and suspense that keeps the player on edge throughout the game.

The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The sound of alien footsteps, the screams of victims, and the gunfire all help to create a truly immersive experience.

Legacy

Ground Zero: Texas was a commercial success, and it received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its unique gameplay, creepy atmosphere, and memorable characters.

Ground Zero: Texas is still considered a cult classic today, and it is often cited as one of the best interactive movie games ever made. The game’s unique blend of horror and action has inspired many other games, and it remains a popular choice for fans of the genre.

Conclusion

Ground Zero: Texas is a unique and chilling interactive movie experience that combines horror and action. The game’s creepy atmosphere, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay make it a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of horror games or interactive movies, then you owe it to yourself to check out Ground Zero: Texas.

Review Score

6/10

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Earnest Evans (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Earnest Evans: A Timeless Adventure

Released in 1991 for the NEC PC-9801, Earnest Evans is a point-and-click adventure game that follows the intrepid archaeologist Earnest Evans on a quest to save the world from the clutches of the evil Hastur. As the grandson of the famed archaeologist who unearthed three ancient idols capable of ending life on Earth, Earnest must race against time to find the idols before they fall into the wrong hands.

The game is set in a world where ancient civilizations and modern technology coexist. Players will travel to exotic locations around the globe, from the bustling streets of New York City to the ancient ruins of Egypt, in search of the idols. Along the way, they will encounter a cast of colorful characters, solve puzzles, and uncover the secrets of a forgotten world.

Earnest Evans is a challenging and rewarding adventure game that will appeal to fans of classic point-and-click games. The game’s graphics are charming and evocative, and the soundtrack is atmospheric and immersive. The puzzles are clever and satisfying, and the story is engaging and well-written.

Gameplay

Earnest Evans is a point-and-click adventure game played from a first-person perspective. Players control Earnest as he explores the world, interacts with objects and characters, and solves puzzles. The game’s interface is simple and intuitive, and players will quickly get the hang of how to play.

The game world is divided into a number of different locations, each with its own unique set of puzzles and challenges. Players will travel to these locations by using a map, and they can revisit locations at any time.

In order to progress through the game, players must solve a variety of puzzles. These puzzles can range from simple object-finding puzzles to more complex logic puzzles. Players will need to use their wits and observation skills to solve these puzzles and progress through the game.

Story

The story of Earnest Evans is engaging and well-written. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is full of twists and turns. Players will be drawn into the story from the very beginning and will be eager to see how it ends.

The game’s story is set in a world where ancient civilizations and modern technology coexist. This unique setting allows for a variety of interesting and exciting gameplay opportunities. Players will travel to exotic locations around the globe, from the bustling streets of New York City to the ancient ruins of Egypt, in search of the idols. Along the way, they will encounter a cast of colorful characters, including archaeologists, historians, and even a talking dog.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Earnest Evans are charming and evocative. The game’s world is rendered in a colorful and detailed pixel art style. The character sprites are well-animated, and the backgrounds are full of life and detail.

The game’s soundtrack is atmospheric and immersive. The music is a mix of traditional and electronic instruments, and it perfectly captures the game’s unique setting. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to bring the game world to life.

Overall

Earnest Evans is a classic point-and-click adventure game that is still enjoyable today. The game’s charming graphics, engaging story, and challenging puzzles will appeal to fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a classic adventure game to play, then Earnest Evans is definitely worth checking out.

Tips for Playing Earnest Evans

Here are a few tips for playing Earnest Evans:

  • Talk to everyone you meet. Everyone in the game has something to say, and they may be able to give you valuable information.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings. There are many hidden objects and clues in the game world.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is more than one way to solve most puzzles in the game.
  • If you get stuck, don’t be afraid to use a walkthrough. There are many walkthroughs available online.

Legacy

Earnest Evans is a classic point-and-click adventure game that has been enjoyed by gamers for over 30 years. The game’s unique setting, engaging story, and challenging puzzles have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. Earnest Evans is a true classic that is still worth playing today.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

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Tomcat Alley (1994)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Tomcat Alley: The Last of Sega’s TruVideo Classics

Released in 1994, Tomcat Alley was one of the last games in Sega’s TruVideo series for the SegaCD. TruVideo games were known for their use of full-motion video (FMV) footage, which gave them a more realistic look and feel than traditional sprite-based games. Tomcat Alley was one of the most ambitious TruVideo games, featuring a large number of FMV sequences and a complex branching storyline.

Gameplay

Tomcat Alley is a dogfighting game in which the player takes control of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. The game features a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, bombing runs, and escort missions. The player can use a variety of weapons to defeat their enemies, including missiles, bombs, and guns.

One of the unique features of Tomcat Alley is its use of “Active Matrix” software. This software allows for a wide range of outcomes to any given situation. For example, the player’s choice of weapons and tactics will affect the outcome of each mission. This makes Tomcat Alley a very replayable game, as there are many different ways to complete each mission.

Story

Tomcat Alley is set in the near future, where a renegade Soviet commander is threatening the United States with chemical weapons. The player is tasked with stopping the commander and his forces. The game’s story is told through a series of FMV cutscenes, which feature live actors and high-quality production values.

Graphics

Tomcat Alley’s graphics are some of the best on the SegaCD. The game’s FMV sequences are particularly impressive, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience. The game’s 3D graphics are also very good, and they provide a smooth and detailed representation of the game world.

Sound

Tomcat Alley’s sound is also top-notch. The game’s music is catchy and exciting, and it helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement. The game’s sound effects are also very good, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience.

Overall

Tomcat Alley is a classic dogfighting game that is still enjoyable today. The game’s innovative use of Active Matrix software, its complex branching storyline, and its impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review

Tomcat Alley is a great dogfighting game that is still enjoyable today. The game’s innovative use of Active Matrix software, its complex branching storyline, and its impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Score: 8.5/10

Pros:

  • Innovative use of Active Matrix software
  • Complex branching storyline
  • Impressive graphics and sound
  • Replayable gameplay

Cons:

  • Some missions can be difficult
  • FMV sequences can be choppy at times

Review Score

7.5/10

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Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf (1992)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf (1992)

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf is a real-time strategy game developed by Koei and released in 1992 for the PC. It is the third game in the Genghis Khan series, and the second to be released outside Japan. The game is set in the 13th century and follows the Mongol Empire’s rise to power under Genghis Khan.

Players take control of one of four factions: the Mongols, the Chinese, the Khwarezmians, or the Europeans. Each faction has its own unique units and abilities, and players must use these to their advantage to conquer the world.

The game’s campaign mode follows the historical events of the Mongol Empire’s rise to power. Players must complete a series of missions in order to progress through the campaign, and each mission has its own unique objectives. In addition to the campaign mode, the game also features a number of other modes, including a skirmish mode and a multiplayer mode.

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf was praised for its innovative gameplay, its historical accuracy, and its beautiful graphics. The game was a commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made.

Gameplay

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf is a real-time strategy game in which players control a faction of units and must use them to conquer the world. Players can build and upgrade structures, research new technologies, and train new units. They must also manage their resources, which include food, wood, stone, and gold.

The game’s combat is fast-paced and action-packed. Players can control their units directly, or they can set them to attack or defend on their own. The game features a variety of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must use the right units for the right job in order to be successful.

Historical Accuracy

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf is based on the historical events of the Mongol Empire’s rise to power. The game’s campaign mode follows the historical events of the Mongol Empire’s rise to power, and the game’s units and factions are all based on real historical counterparts.

The game’s historical accuracy is one of its strengths. It allows players to learn about the Mongol Empire and its history while they are playing the game.

Graphics

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf features beautiful graphics for its time. The game’s world is rendered in full 3D, and the units and buildings are all highly detailed. The game’s graphics are still impressive today, and they help to create a truly immersive experience for players.

Legacy

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf is considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, its historical accuracy, and its beautiful graphics made it a critical and commercial success. The game is still played by many people today, and it continues to be a popular choice for fans of real-time strategy games.

Conclusion

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf is a classic real-time strategy game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s innovative gameplay, its historical accuracy, and its beautiful graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Eye of the Beholder (1991)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Eye of the Beholder (1991)

Introduction

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Eye of the Beholder is an all 3-D, Legend Series computer role-playing adventure based on the popular Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition rules and on an original story created for this game. The action takes place in the sewers and catacombs beneath the City of Waterdeep located in TSR’s Forgotten Realms game world.

The game was developed by Westwood Associates and published by SSI in 1991. It was one of the first CRPGs to use a first-person perspective and 3D graphics, and it is still considered to be one of the best examples of the genre.

Gameplay

Eye of the Beholder is a dungeon crawl in the truest sense of the word. The player controls a party of four adventurers as they explore a series of interconnected dungeons, fighting monsters, solving puzzles, and finding treasure. The game is turn-based, and the player can pause the action at any time to issue commands to their party members.

The game’s combat system is simple but effective. Each character has a number of attacks per round, and they can choose to attack with their weapons, spells, or special abilities. The game also features a unique “line of sight” system, which means that characters can only attack enemies that they can see. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the combat, as players must carefully position their characters to avoid being flanked or surrounded.

In addition to combat, Eye of the Beholder also features a number of puzzles and traps. These puzzles can be challenging, but they are always fair, and there is always a logical solution. The traps are also deadly, but they can be avoided if the player is careful and observant.

Characters

The player can choose from a variety of pre-generated characters, or they can create their own custom characters. Each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their party composition before entering the dungeon.

The game features a total of 12 character classes, including fighters, clerics, thieves, and wizards. Each class has its own unique abilities and spells, and players must carefully consider the mix of classes in their party to ensure that they have all the skills they need to survive.

Setting

Eye of the Beholder is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, which is one of the most popular and well-developed campaign settings in the Dungeons & Dragons universe. The game takes place in the sewers and catacombs beneath the City of Waterdeep, which is a bustling metropolis located on the Sword Coast.

The dungeons are filled with a variety of monsters, traps, and treasures. The player must carefully explore the dungeons and defeat the monsters in order to find the treasure and complete the game.

Legacy

Eye of the Beholder was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best CRPGs ever made. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and first-person perspective set a new standard for the genre, and its challenging gameplay and memorable setting have kept players coming back for more for over 30 years.

Eye of the Beholder has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the PC, Mac, Amiga, and Sega Genesis. The game has also been re-released on GOG.com and Steam.

Conclusion

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Eye of the Beholder is a classic CRPG that still holds up today. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and first-person perspective, challenging gameplay, and memorable setting make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a classic CRPG to sink your teeth into, Eye of the Beholder is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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The Ninja Warriors (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

The Ninja Warriors: A Side-Scrolling Arcade Masterpiece

Released in 1988, The Ninja Warriors is an arcade classic that defined the side-scrolling action genre. Developed by Natsume, the game captivated players with its intense combat, vibrant graphics, and memorable characters.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Martial Arts and Mayhem

The Ninja Warriors presents players with a relentless onslaught of enemies across five challenging levels. Players take control of one of two highly skilled ninjas: Kunoichi, a female ninja wielding twin daggers, or Ninja, a male ninja armed with a sword.

The game’s combat system is a masterpiece of simplicity and depth. With just a few buttons, players can unleash a wide array of devastating attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. The key to success lies in mastering the timing and positioning of these attacks to maximize damage and avoid enemy strikes.

Characters: A Duo of Unstoppable Warriors

Kunoichi and Ninja are more than just playable characters; they are iconic symbols of the ninja warrior archetype. Kunoichi is a swift and agile fighter, able to nimbly dodge enemy attacks and deliver lightning-fast strikes. Ninja, on the other hand, is a powerhouse, capable of dealing immense damage with his powerful swordsmanship.

Levels: A Gauntlet of Perilous Encounters

The Ninja Warriors’ five levels offer a diverse range of environments and challenges. From the neon-lit streets of a futuristic cityscape to the depths of a sprawling fortress, each level presents unique obstacles and formidable enemies.

Players must navigate treacherous platforms, ascend perilous walls, and defeat hordes of Banglar soldiers, each with their own distinct fighting styles and weapons. The game’s relentless pace keeps players on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Aural Feast

The Ninja Warriors is a visual spectacle that pushed the limits of the arcade hardware of its time. The vibrant colors and detailed pixel art create a captivating world that immerses players in the game’s action-packed atmosphere.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a driving techno beat that perfectly complements the intense gameplay. The sound effects, from the clash of swords to the explosions of grenades, add an extra layer of immersion and excitement.

Legacy: An Enduring Classic

The Ninja Warriors left an indelible mark on the video game industry. Its innovative combat system, memorable characters, and stunning visuals set a new standard for side-scrolling action games.

The game’s popularity spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, cementing its place as a beloved franchise among gamers of all generations. The Ninja Warriors remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain to this day.

Conclusion

The Ninja Warriors (1988) is a masterpiece of arcade gaming that seamlessly blends intense action, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. Its influence on the genre is undeniable, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate players with its timeless appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the genre, The Ninja Warriors is an essential experience that will leave you exhilarated and craving for more.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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