Publisher: Alternative Software

‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! (1993)

by Christopher October 26, 2024

written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Platform
Platforms: Amiga
Publishers: Alternative Software

‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! (1993): A Wacky Platform Adventure

Introduction

Based on the popular BBC TV comedy series, ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a wacky and addictive platformer released in 1993. Players take control of one of four characters from the show as they embark on a quest to find lost art treasures in occupied France during World War II. With its madcap humor, stunning graphics, and catchy music, ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a must-play for fans of the show and platforming enthusiasts alike.

Gameplay

‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a side-scrolling platformer with a unique twist: the ability to scroll the screen in all 360 degrees. This allows for some truly innovative level design, with players able to explore secret areas and solve puzzles in ways that would be impossible in a traditional 2D platformer.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges. Players will have to navigate through treacherous jungles, climb treacherous mountains, and infiltrate heavily guarded castles. Along the way, they will encounter a cast of colorful characters, both friendly and hostile.

Characters

Players can choose to play as one of four characters from the ‘Allo ‘Allo! TV series:

René Artois, the hapless café owner
Edith Artois, René’s long-suffering wife
Monsieur Alphonse, the pompous French Resistance leader
Officer Crabtree, the bumbling British spy

Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyles. René is a well-rounded character with no major strengths or weaknesses. Edith is a fast and agile character, but she is not as strong as the other characters. Monsieur Alphonse is a powerful character with a strong attack, but he is slow and clumsy. Officer Crabtree is a stealthy character who can use disguises to infiltrate enemy territory.

Humor

One of the things that makes ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! so special is its wacky sense of humor. The game is filled with sight gags, puns, and other humorous moments that will keep players laughing from beginning to end.

For example, in one level, players must help René escape from a POW camp by dressing him up as a woman. In another level, players must help Edith infiltrate a Nazi castle by disguising her as a maid. The game is full of these kinds of hilarious moments, which help to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Graphics and Sound

‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! features stunning graphics for its time. The characters are all beautifully animated, and the backgrounds are lush and detailed. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that perfectly captures the tone of the TV series.

Conclusion

‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a wacky and addictive platformer that is sure to please fans of the TV series and platforming enthusiasts alike. With its madcap humor, stunning graphics, and catchy music, ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a must-play for anyone looking for a fun and challenging platforming experience.

Tips for Playing

Here are a few tips for playing ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun!:

Explore every nook and cranny. The levels are filled with secret areas and hidden treasures.
Use your character’s unique abilities to your advantage. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to use them wisely.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to solve each level, so don’t be afraid to try different things.
Have fun! ‘Allo ‘Allo! Cartoon Fun! is a game that is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t take it too seriously.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fireman Sam (1992)

by Nish August 31, 2024

written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1992
Genres: Arcade
Platforms: ZX Spectrum
Developers: Alternative Software
Publishers: Alternative Software

Fireman Sam (1992): A Nostalgic Adventure for All Ages

Introduction

Fireman Sam is a beloved children’s character who has been entertaining audiences for decades. In 1992, a video game based on the popular TV show was released, allowing players to step into the boots of the brave firefighter and embark on exciting missions. Fireman Sam (1992) is a charming and nostalgic adventure that will appeal to gamers of all ages.

Gameplay

Fireman Sam (1992) is a side-scrolling platformer in which players control the titular character as he navigates various levels, completing missions and rescuing people and animals in distress. The gameplay is simple and straightforward, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges. In some levels, Fireman Sam must put out fires, while in others he must find lost objects or rescue people from danger. The levels are well-designed and offer a good mix of challenge and fun.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Fireman Sam (1992) are colorful and charming, capturing the look and feel of the TV show. The character sprites are well-animated and the backgrounds are detailed and varied. The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and memorable, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Story

Fireman Sam (1992) does not have a traditional story mode, but the individual levels are tied together by a loose narrative. Fireman Sam is always on the lookout for trouble, and he is always ready to help those in need. The game’s missions are varied and exciting, and they offer a good sense of progression and accomplishment.

Characters

In addition to Fireman Sam, the game features a cast of supporting characters from the TV show, including Elvis Cridlington, Penny Morris, and Norman Price. Each character has their own unique personality and abilities, and they all play an important role in the game’s story.

Legacy

Fireman Sam (1992) was a critical and commercial success, and it has remained popular with gamers of all ages. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, and it is still available for purchase today. Fireman Sam (1992) is a classic example of a well-made and entertaining video game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Conclusion

Fireman Sam (1992) is a charming and nostalgic adventure that will appeal to gamers of all ages. The game’s simple and straightforward gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether you are a fan of the TV show or simply looking for a great retro game to play, Fireman Sam (1992) is definitely worth checking out.

Additional Information

Developer: Rare
Publisher: Ocean Software
Release Date: 1992
Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, Game Boy, Master System, NES, ZX Spectrum
Genre: Side-scrolling platformer

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

The Quivering (1999)

by Nish August 25, 2024

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle
Platforms: DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Charybdis
Publishers: Alternative Software

The Quivering (1999): A Spine-Chilling Point-and-Click Adventure

Venture into the dark and foreboding village of Warty Hollow, where a sinister secret lurks within the shadows. The Quivering, a classic retro point-and-click adventure game released in 1999, will send shivers down your spine as you unravel its eerie tale.

A Spine-Tingling Plot

The Quivering follows the misadventures of Spud, a young boy who finds himself entangled in a web of supernatural events. His beloved uncle, Olivetti Franken-Stamp, has fallen victim to a diabolical spell cast by the notorious Big D, the big cheese from Hell. Determined to save his uncle, Spud embarks on a perilous quest filled with puzzles, quirky characters, and spine-chilling encounters.

A Cast of Unforgettable Characters

Throughout his journey, Spud encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, each with their own unique quirks and secrets. From the enigmatic fortune teller, Madame Zsa Zsa, to the bumbling police officer, Constable Plod, every character adds depth and humor to the unsettling atmosphere.

Puzzles That Will Test Your Wit

The Quivering presents players with a variety of puzzles that will test their wits and challenge their problem-solving skills. From deciphering cryptic riddles to navigating treacherous mazes, each puzzle brings you closer to uncovering the truth behind Big D’s sinister plot.

A Dark and Atmospheric Setting

Warty Hollow is a place where shadows dance and secrets whisper in the wind. The game’s pixelated graphics and eerie sound design create a palpable sense of unease, immersing players in a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide.

Retro Charm with a Modern Twist

The Quivering is a testament to the enduring charm of classic point-and-click adventure games. While it retains the nostalgic pixelated visuals and intuitive gameplay of its predecessors, it also incorporates modern conveniences such as multiple save slots and a hint system.

Critical Acclaim and a Dedicated Fanbase

Upon its release, The Quivering was met with critical acclaim, earning praise for its clever puzzles, quirky characters, and immersive atmosphere. Over the years, the game has amassed a dedicated fanbase who continue to appreciate its unique blend of horror, humor, and nostalgia.

A Timeless Classic for Adventure Game Enthusiasts

The Quivering stands as a timeless classic in the point-and-click adventure genre. Its spine-chilling story, unforgettable characters, and challenging puzzles will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, The Quivering is a must-play experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Tips for Playing The Quivering

Pay close attention to the dialogue and examine every object in your surroundings.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different item combinations.
If you’re stuck, don’t hesitate to use the in-game hint system.
Take your time and soak in the game’s unique atmosphere.
Embrace the game’s quirky sense of humor.

Conclusion

The Quivering is a masterpiece of retro gaming that stands the test of time. Its spine-chilling story, unforgettable characters, challenging puzzles, and immersive atmosphere will captivate you from beginning to end. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, The Quivering is a must-play experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Dinosaur Detective Agency (1993)

by Christopher July 3, 2024

written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Arcade, Platform
Platforms: Amiga
Developers: Maximum Effect
Publishers: Alternative Software

Dinosaur Detective Agency (1993)

Introduction

Dinosaur Detective Agency is a scrolling screen platformer game released in 1993 by Alternative Software for the Amiga. The game stars Rex Raptor, a dinosaur detective who must solve a variety of cases involving missing persons, stolen artifacts, and other crimes.

Gameplay

Dinosaur Detective Agency is a side-scrolling platformer with a unique twist: the player controls a dinosaur detective. Rex Raptor can walk, jump, and shoot, and he can also use his detective skills to investigate crime scenes and solve puzzles.

The game is divided into a series of levels, each of which takes place in a different location, such as a city street, a forest, or a museum. In each level, Rex must solve a variety of puzzles and defeat a variety of enemies, including other dinosaurs, robots, and aliens.

Rex can use his detective skills to examine crime scenes and interview witnesses. He can also use his shooting skills to defeat enemies and collect power-ups.

Plot

The game’s story begins when Rex Raptor is hired to investigate the disappearance of a famous scientist. Rex soon discovers that the scientist has been kidnapped by a group of evil aliens who are planning to use his inventions for their own nefarious purposes.

Rex must travel to a variety of locations and solve a variety of puzzles in order to rescue the scientist and stop the aliens. Along the way, he will meet a cast of colorful characters, including a talking dog, a wise-cracking parrot, and a beautiful damsel in distress.

Reception

Dinosaur Detective Agency was released to critical acclaim. Critics praised the game’s unique gameplay, charming characters, and witty dialogue. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Dinosaur Detective Agency is considered to be one of the best Amiga platformers ever made. The game’s unique gameplay and charming characters have made it a cult classic among Amiga fans.

Additional Information

Dinosaur Detective Agency was developed by a small team of developers at Alternative Software.
The game was originally released on the Amiga, but was later ported to the PC and other platforms.
Dinosaur Detective Agency was followed by a sequel, Dinosaur Detective Agency 2: The Curse of the Golden Idol, which was released in 1995.

Review

Dinosaur Detective Agency is a fun and unique platformer that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. The game’s charming characters, witty dialogue, and challenging puzzles make it a must-play for Amiga fans.

Score: 7.5 out of 10

Pros:

Unique gameplay
Charming characters
Witty dialogue
Challenging puzzles

Cons:

Short length
Some levels can be frustrating

Overall:

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Bully’s Sporting Darts (1993)

by Nish June 24, 2020

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Simulator, Sport
Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE
Publishers: Alternative Software

Bully’s Sporting Darts: The Ultimate Darts Experience

Released in 1993, Bully’s Sporting Darts is a unique and challenging darts game that offers a variety of different sports-themed dartboards. With its innovative gameplay and quirky humor, it’s a must-play for fans of darts and retro gaming alike.

Gameplay

Bully’s Sporting Darts features seven different dartboards, each with its own unique rules and challenges. The dartboards are:

Football: Hit the different areas of the dartboard to score points and advance the ball down the field. The first player to score a goal wins.
Golf: Hit the different areas of the dartboard to score points and advance your ball around the golf course. The player with the lowest score at the end of 18 holes wins.
Snooker: Hit the different colored balls on the dartboard to score points and pot them. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Tennis: Hit the different areas of the dartboard to score points and return your opponent’s shots. The first player to win two sets wins the game.
Cricket: Hit the different numbers on the dartboard to score points and close out different sections. The first player to close out all six sections wins the game.
501: The classic darts game where players take turns throwing darts at a dartboard to reduce their score to zero. The first player to reach zero wins.
Round the Board: A variation on 501 where players take turns throwing darts at different numbers on the dartboard in order. The first player to hit all the numbers in order wins.

Graphics and Sound

Bully’s Sporting Darts features simple but effective graphics that are charming and nostalgic. The dartboards are all well-designed and the animations are smooth and fluid. The sound effects are also well-done and add to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Replayability

With its seven different dartboards, Bully’s Sporting Darts offers a lot of replayability. There’s always a new challenge to try, and the game can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. The game also features a variety of different multiplayer modes, so you can challenge your friends to a game of darts.

Overall

Bully’s Sporting Darts is a unique and challenging darts game that offers a variety of different sports-themed dartboards. With its innovative gameplay and quirky humor, it’s a must-play for fans of darts and retro gaming alike.

Tips for Playing Bully’s Sporting Darts

Here are a few tips to help you improve your game of Bully’s Sporting Darts:

Practice your aim: The most important thing in darts is to have good aim. Practice throwing darts at a target until you can consistently hit the bullseye.
Use the right darts: There are different types of darts available, so it’s important to find the ones that are right for you. Experiment with different weights and shapes until you find the ones that you can throw the most accurately.
Position yourself correctly: When you’re throwing darts, it’s important to stand in a comfortable position with your feet shoulder-width apart. Make sure your elbow is tucked in and your arm is straight.
Follow through: When you release the dart, follow through with your arm. This will help you to throw the dart with more accuracy and power.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to darts. Experiment with different throwing techniques and strategies until you find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Bully’s Sporting Darts is a classic darts game that’s still enjoyed by gamers today. With its unique gameplay and quirky humor, it’s a must-play for fans of darts and retro gaming alike. So grab a pint and a bag of chips, and get ready to challenge your friends to a game of Bully’s Sporting Darts!

Review Score

8.5/10