Summary

Release Year: 1996
Genres: Platform, Shooter
Platforms: Amiga, DOS, iOS, Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Crack dot Com, Exakt Entertainment
Publishers: Alive Mediasoft, Bungie, Electronic Arts, Exakt Entertainment, Origin Systems

Abuse (1996): A Retro Side-Scrolling Gem

Released in 1996, Abuse is a side-scrolling platformer that stands out with its unique control scheme and challenging gameplay. Developed by Crack dot Com and published by MicroProse, Abuse follows the story of Nick Vorton, a genetically engineered super-soldier who must fight his way through hordes of mutants to save humanity.

Gameplay: A Blend of Action and Puzzle-Solving

Abuse combines fast-paced action with puzzle-solving elements, creating a diverse and engaging gameplay experience. Players control Nick using the keyboard for movement and the mouse for aiming and shooting. This control scheme allows for precise aiming and fluid movement, adding to the game’s intensity.

The game features a variety of enemies, each with unique abilities and attack patterns. From swarming mutants to heavily armored cyborgs, players must adapt their tactics and weapons to overcome each challenge. Abuse also incorporates platforming elements, requiring players to jump, climb, and navigate treacherous environments.

A Dystopian World and Gripping Story

Abuse is set in a grim and oppressive future where genetic engineering has run rampant. The player takes on the role of Nick Vorton, a genetically enhanced soldier created by the corrupt BioCorp. After witnessing the horrors inflicted by BioCorp, Nick turns against his creators and embarks on a mission to expose their evil and save humanity.

The game’s story unfolds through cutscenes and in-game dialogue, revealing a complex world of corporate greed, scientific hubris, and the struggle for survival. Abuse’s dystopian setting and gripping narrative add depth and immersion to the gameplay.

Innovative Control Scheme: Keyboard and Mouse Mastery

One of Abuse’s defining features is its innovative control scheme. While most side-scrolling platformers of the time relied solely on the keyboard for both movement and aiming, Abuse introduced the use of the mouse for aiming and shooting. This allowed for greater precision and control, enabling players to target enemies with ease and navigate the game’s intricate levels.

The keyboard-and-mouse control scheme became a hallmark of Abuse, praised for its intuitive and responsive gameplay. It set a precedent for future side-scrolling shooters and platformers, demonstrating the potential for innovative control mechanics.

Weapons and Upgrades: Arsenal of Destruction

Abuse provides Nick with a diverse arsenal of weapons to combat the mutant hordes. From the standard machine gun to the powerful flamethrower and homing missiles, each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their combat strategies to different situations.

As Nick progresses through the game, he can collect upgrades and power-ups that enhance his abilities and weapons. These upgrades include increased firepower, faster movement speed, and protective shields, giving players the edge in the face of overwhelming odds.

Level Design: Intricate and Challenging

Abuse’s level design is both intricate and challenging, offering a diverse range of environments to explore. From claustrophobic underground tunnels to sprawling outdoor complexes, each level presents unique obstacles and puzzles.

Players must navigate treacherous platforms, avoid deadly traps, and solve environmental puzzles to progress. The game’s level design encourages exploration and rewards players for their ingenuity and problem-solving skills.

Legacy and Impact

Abuse received critical acclaim upon release, praised for its innovative gameplay, gripping story, and challenging difficulty. It became a cult classic among side-scrolling platformer enthusiasts and is still fondly remembered today.

Abuse’s unique control scheme influenced the development of future side-scrolling shooters and platformers, demonstrating the potential for innovative control mechanics. The game’s blend of action and puzzle-solving also set a precedent for future titles, creating a more engaging and diverse gameplay experience.

Today, Abuse remains a beloved classic for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its challenging gameplay, immersive story, and innovative control scheme continue to captivate players, ensuring its place as a timeless gem in the side-scrolling platformer genre.