Adventure Game That's the Spirit for ZX Spectrum

That's the Spirit is a graphic adventure game developed by Simon Lipowicz and Andy Blazdell, released in 1985 by The Edge. Set in a dystopian future of 1996, the game explores a world where every city has been renamed to 'New York' following a government mandate. This decision was justified as a move towards global unity and simplicity, although it introduced a host of new challenges, notably the prohibition of spirits.

The player assumes the role of a 'Spirit chaser' in the original New York, tasked with navigating the city's peculiarities and enforcing the new laws. The narrative unfolds amidst inflation and social chaos, with the protagonist trying to locate their Electronic Detector of Ghostly Entities to manage unruly spirits. The game presents a satirical take on government policies and societal norms.

Gameplay involves exploring the city, interacting with various objects, and using single-key commands to perform actions like 'connect', 'take', and 'throw'. Players can combine objects to solve puzzles, enhancing the interactive experience. The game also features a unique Turbo Load system for faster loading times, albeit with increased sensitivity.

Visually, the game showcases a classic ZX Spectrum aesthetic with vibrant graphics. Players encounter diverse elements, such as break-dancers and discarded technologies, adding to the chaotic urban landscape. The game challenges players to think strategically while navigating the humorous yet dystopian setting, offering a distinct narrative-driven experience.