Adventurer #08: Обзор игрушек для ZX Spectrum: графика, звук и механики

(C) Fedorov "Chasm" Vladimir

Overview

Since this issue has an excessive amount of material, there is very little space left for the review (in particular, for screenshots), so for this review I selected only those games from a large number of new items that I believe are worth playing.

RABBIT JAZZY            Author's disk version
PARADOX 1998          size 62 sec.

This game is an adaptation for Speccy of the handheld electronic game "Well, Just You Wait!". For the very young generation of Spectrum users, I will briefly describe the plot of the game: you control a rabbit who tries to solve a local food supply problem by collecting eggs laid by four chickens, which are so stupid that the eggs they lay carefully drop from the nests and just as carefully crack on the ground. That seems to be all for the plot; now let's talk about the technical execution. The graphics in the game are drawn very well and are done in a 3-color style, which makes the game screen very colorful. The music is also at a good level; the only thing missing here is sound effects. The game can be recommended for children under 10 years old and for those whose favorite handheld game is broken. P.S. Since the graphics are done in 3-color mode, there was no way to provide a full screenshot, so you will have to be disappointed (sorry).

Plot        0 %
Graphics    100 %
Sound       80 %
Interest     30 %

QUADRAX              Disk version
FLASH
ULTRASOFT 1994        size 74 sec.

Recently, I have rarely come across truly interesting logic games, but this game captivated me so much that I quickly completed a dozen levels. Imagine "Lemmings" mixed with "Sokoban" and pixelated "Vikings" - that's "Quadrax". You will be tasked with guiding two little men through various mazes filled with stone blocks, elevators, switches, and other gadgets that these little men can interact with, and the movements of these little men are so carefully crafted that their graceful movements rival that of the main character of the game "Prince of Persia". Find this game - you definitely won't regret it.

Plot        100 %
Graphics    100 %
Sound       0 %
Interest     100 %

MATCH OF THE DAY     Disk version
FLASH
ZEPPELIN PREMIER      size 74 sec. 1992

This game belongs to the manager class. You will have the opportunity to manage a football team. Unlike other management games, here you will need to plan each day of the week by the hour, meaning you will plan meetings with coaches, scouts, doctors, attend player "auctions," and so on, and at the end of each Saturday, a game awaits you. By the way, you will even be able to enjoy the sight of players running across the field. Recommended for all fans of "smart" games.

Plot        100 %
Graphics    80 %
Sound       0 %
Interest     100 %

KOMPLEX              Disk version
FLASH
LEGEND               size 103 sec.

I have always been fascinated by three-dimensional games, it seems this started back in the days of "Elite," which I played from 1990 to 1993, reaching the Elite rank in all versions that came my way (except for THD's version). This game belongs to such games. You are thrown onto a skimmer in a complex teeming with various flying and statically fixed things that try to take you out. I couldn't fully understand this game, but while rummaging through the complex editor (which is located directly in the game), I discovered various gadgets like tunnels and other stuff that I initially didn't find ("Starglider 2" also seemed like a simple shooter at first). So, give it a try, and maybe your exploration of this game will enhance our next issue.

Plot        80 %
Graphics    50 %
Sound       30 %
Interest     100 %

CUE BOY              Disk version
FLASH
CODEMASTERS 1992     size  206 sec.

If you know English well enough, you might conclude from the title of this game that you will be playing billiards. After loading this game, I realized that it was made by the guys who once delighted us with the immortal "Wacky Darts." Here you will also find a funny commentator who, waving his arms, will comment on the course of your match. This remained unchanged, but the execution of the gameplay (which was so enjoyable in "Darts") is somewhat weak this time, but if you are a true fan of this game, you won't pay much attention to the external execution; overall, the billiards is quite decent.

Plot        100 %
Graphics    80 %
Sound       100 %
Interest     80 %

ZLY SEN              Disk version
FRANTISKA KOUDELSKY        AMD
PROXIMA 1990          size 230 sec.

The game was made in one of the countries of the former socialist camp; I don't know which one, as I am not proficient in languages other than Russian, Russian swear words, and English. It looks like a regular "Sokoban," but the catch is that the boxes are placed not in a maze but on a floating platform in the water. Therefore, with careless movements, you can not only drop a box into the water but also dive in after it, and the main character, unfortunately, can't swim. So, basically, it's "Sokoban," just "Sokoban"...

Plot        20 %
Graphics    80 %
Sound       50 %
Interest     80 %

PRVA AKCIA           Disk version
                             FATALITY
MICROTECH SYSTEMS     size 228 sec. 1992

Another game from a neighboring country, by the way, it is made quite well. It seems to me that its style is very similar to "Navy Moves": there is a guy running with a gun (the guy looks very much like Schwarzenegger) through a multi-story bank building; however, there are not only bad terrorists but also hostages - bank employees. Because the game is made in some unknown language, I couldn't even pass it with infinite energy - something constantly got in the way of the plot, which is a pity... the game is cool. I recommend it.

Plot        100 %
Graphics    100 %
Sound       50 %
Interest     100 %

OUTLAW               Disk version
                              FATALITY
PLAYERS  1990         size 218 sec.

This game belongs to pure arcades - you find yourself in the Wild American West as a bounty hunter. You are offered the choice to kill the leader of one of four gangs, but before that, you will have to deal with the regular bandits, and so four times in a row (since there are exactly four leaders). The game features a bonus system - extra bullets, pistols, rifles, boots (which increase movement speed), and so on. By the way, if this means anything to you - this game is very close in style and design to "Gunsmoke."

Plot        30 %
Graphics    70 %
Sound       70 %
Interest     30 %

THE DARK EMPIRE     Disk version
                             RED CROSS
LOTHLORIEN           size 159 sec.

In the past six months, our city has rarely seen worthy strategy games, so when I saw "Dark Empire," I was quite impressed - this is a real-time strategy! Of course, it is far from "CIV," but as they say, in a fishless place, even a crawfish is a fish. In style, the game is very similar to our "Last Battle" - the same cities where you can build units, the same naval battles, and the map opens up as your troops advance, but all of this is in real-time. In general, if you are a strategy fan - I highly recommend it. By the way, the game comes with help in Russian, which will allow you to understand the game without any problems.

Plot        100 %
Graphics    30 %
Sound       30 %
Interest     80 %

GARY LINEKER'S      Disk version
SUPER SKILLS         POWER OF SOUND
ULTRASOFT 1994      size  242  sec.

In principle, I have never liked sports simulators where the gameplay consists of quick finger work - in my opinion, they have no meaning at all, but this game left a pleasant impression on me due to its beautiful graphics. I didn't finish the game, but judging by the title, it should be dedicated not to football itself but to the training that precedes it. In the first part of the game, you will have to do squats, push-ups, lift weights, etc.; in the second part, you will have to practice with the ball... it was too much for me, I couldn't handle it... But maybe fans will like it...

Plot        20 %
Graphics    100 %
Sound       50 %
Interest     20 %

Contents of the publication: Adventurer #08

• От автора - Shaitan
  Technical details of a new program interface for ZX Spectrum. Discusses improvements and features like scrolling and color change. Provides keyboard and button navigation instructions.
• От автора
  Introduction by the author and editorial team details.
• Presentation
  The article presents a software installer for creating autorun disks and introduces a new adventure game created with QUILL by Dr. Laser.
• Presentation of TRICK Software
  The article presents TRICK, a new software for program protection developed by Eternity Industry, and discusses its beta and commercial versions. The author, Alexander Kalinin (aka Paracels/EI), addresses previous shortcomings in the software and emphasizes its improved interface. It includes purchase details for the software and invites readers to request it.
• Presentation
  The article provides a detailed user manual for HELP_Z80, a free utility for ZX Spectrum that serves as an electronic guide for Z80 microprocessor commands. It outlines how to load and use the software, including command explanations, search functions, and integration with assemblers. Additionally, it includes memory distribution, operational features, and references for further reading.
• Interface
  The article discusses reader feedback on the magazine's interface, addressing concerns about pricing and software trends in the ZX Spectrum community. It features a letter from a reader expressing thoughts on game pricing and the declining number of users on the platform. Additionally, there are discussions on software developments and user engagement.
• Interface
  The article shares the author's experiences after purchasing an Amiga, comparing it with a PC, and discussing its usability for games, graphics, and music, while noting some software limitations.
• Interface
  The article discusses user support issues faced by hardware manufacturers SCORPION and NEMO for ZX Spectrum devices. It critiques SCORPION for poor customer service despite being a market leader, while praising NEMO for responsive support. The author expresses concerns about the overall market direction for ZX Spectrum hardware.
• Interface
  Article discusses the future of the Spectrum platform, addressing user demographics, software production challenges, and hardware evolution possibilities.
• Interface
  Article discusses the frustrations of a Speccy user regarding hardware issues, the challenges of modern computing, and the dedication to maintaining the Speccy platform.
• Interface
  Статья рассматривает жизнь и судьбы пользователей ZX Spectrum, включая личные воспоминания автора о друзьях и их взаимодействии с компьютерами.
• System
  The article reviews various software for ZX Spectrum, including text editors, audio players, and graphic utilities. It provides independent opinions on their features and usability, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. The piece emphasizes the evolution and improvement of software tools available for this classic platform.
• Overview of Games
  Overview of notable games for ZX Spectrum, highlighting their graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. Each entry includes a brief summary and rating. Recommended for fans of retro gaming.
• Review of Demos
  The article reviews demo versions of various games, highlighting their potential and unique features. It emphasizes the scarcity of such releases in the market and evaluates the quality and gameplay mechanics of selected titles. The author shares insights into the progress and expectations for future full versions of these games.
• Guests
  The article discusses the formation and activities of the Eternity Industry group, its members, projects, and future plans for releases and competitions.
• Гости - Dr. John
  An interview with Felix from Virtual Brothers discusses his transition from ZX Spectrum to PC, development of the game 'Winnie the Pooh', and future plans.
• Guests
  Interview with the musicians Mарат and Демон from the band 'Disgust', discussing their musical evolution, influences, and perspectives on life and creativity.
• Promotion
  The article provides a detailed manual for the game 'ENCYCLOPEDIA of WAR', explaining army selection, unit types, and battle mechanics.
• Promotion
  The article provides a walkthrough for the game, detailing necessary items and strategies for progressing through various challenges, including dealing with dinosaurs and navigating villages.
• Promotion
  Статья представляет собой обзор arcade adventure игры 'ELOPEMENT' от Omega HG, выделяя ее особенности и советы по прохождению.
• Promotion
  Статья описывает текстовую адвентюру 'Остров тьмы' на QUILL, предлагая советы для игроков. Упоминаются механики и персонажи, включая загадки и взаимодействия. В конце представлена карта острова.
• Promotion of 'Knightmare'
  The article describes the game 'Knightmare', detailing its commands, gameplay mechanics, and initial quests. Players control a knight who must interact with characters and solve puzzles to progress. It serves as a manual for navigating the game's environment and objectives.
• Experience Exchange
  The article critiques the adventure game 'Island of Darkness' by Paul Moskow, highlighting its illogical design, lack of detailed item descriptions, and absence of helpful hints for players.
• Experience Exchange
  The article provides a detailed manual for enhancing the ZX ASM 3.0 assembler, introducing debugging features and functionalities for better program execution control on ZX Spectrum.
• Experience Exchange
  The article describes a phenomenon observed with the ZX Spectrum video controller, where switching between two screens can create unexpected visual artifacts. It outlines a specific program that demonstrates this effect through rapid screen toggling. The author discusses the implications and potential applications of this behavior.
• Обмен опытом - Иван Рощин
  The article is a programming guide on porting the 'iris.ss' screen saver effect from Dos Navigator to ZX Spectrum, including source code and modification tips.
• Обмен опытом - Иван Рощин
  Description of the OPEN_W procedure to create window borders. Includes details on customization of symbols and dimensions. Utilizes PRSYM for symbol printing.
• Обмен опытом - Maximum
  Introduction to long integer operations for game development on ZX Spectrum, including addition, subtraction, and conversion to ASCII.
• Experience Exchange
  The article discusses the customization of the ART STUDIO graphic editor by creating additional modules that enhance its functionality, including features like music playback and cursor coordinates display.
• Experience Exchange
  The article describes a program developed to improve the visual quality of a pixel-by-pixel moving attribute message on ZX Spectrum. It provides details on the implementation, including the use of data arrays for motion trajectory and image rendering. The program includes comments for easier understanding and can be modified for different effects.
• Оттяг
  The article features humorous sketches and commentary on various aspects of life and technology, including anecdotes about a fictional character's experience with a Pentium processor.
• Pharmacist Test
  The article presents humorous tests designed to identify whether someone is a real pharmacist or a fraud, featuring situational questions and scoring to gauge knowledge of pharmacy.
• Oddities and Self-Reflection in 'Оттяг'
  The article 'Оттяг' presents a humorous and critical self-reflection of the author, exploring various life experiences and quirks that highlight his unusual personality traits.
• Humorous Quiz: Assess Your Sense of Humor
  The article presents a humorous quiz to assess one's sense of humor and sexual attitudes through various situational questions, revealing absurd and comedic perspectives.
• Student Types Quiz
  The article presents a humorous quiz to determine what kind of student you are, ranging from a party animal to a diligent scholar. It features a series of questions regarding typical student activities and responses. The results categorize students based on their score, from carefree to nerdy.
• How to Properly Torture Windows 95 - Maximum
  Статья описывает иронический подход к установке и эксплуатации операционной системы Windows 95, включая способы ее 'мучения' и троллинга. В тексте используются гиперболизированные примеры взаимодействия с ОС для создания комичного эффекта. Это развлекательный материал с элементами юмора.
• Ottyag
  The article is a humorous narrative featuring Winnie the Pooh and his friends returning to the Hundred Acre Wood, where their carefree life turns chaotic. It describes their antics, including drinking and misadventures, as they reunite and encounter various challenges. The story showcases the characters' personalities and interactions in a comedic light.
• Novella
  The article describes a humorous novella featuring Corporal Johnlan recounting his first military mission and his interactions with a young grandchild over beers.
• Novella
  Novella recounts an adventurous escape from a Glot base using a vintage spacecraft, highlighting the protagonist's encounters and clever maneuvers.
• Novella
  The article describes a whimsical story about two hedgehogs, Pukhly and Zaraza, who, after a strange event, develop wings and must navigate their new reality. The story blends fantasy and humor as the characters face unexpected changes and challenges. This is a novella showcasing imaginative storytelling.
• News
  The article discusses recent updates from Rybninsk related to the FunTop party, detailing contributions from various individuals and teams for the 'Adventurer' magazine and demo competitions.
• News
  Статья сообщает о событиях в сообществе Спектрумистов Ярославля, включая информацию о разработчиках программного обеспечения и их текущих проектах.
• Advertisement
  The article is a collection of advertisements and announcements related to ZX Spectrum, inviting collaboration from programmers, artists, and musicians, and detailing how to acquire the journal and software.