ZX Format #02: What's New: Game Reviews for ZX Spectrum

NEW RELEASE REVIEW.

(C) material provided by X-TRADE

In this article, we will tell you about some games that have entered the St. Petersburg market from November to early December 1995. As of now (03.12.95), there are no new systems or demos, except for a couple of formats, screen file packers, and an archiver. We hope to tell you more about the latter in the next issue.

NIGHT HUNTER 128K

Author: UBI SOFTWARE

This is a complex and engaging maze. You are in an ancient castle, which you will have to traverse. Mysterious creatures scurry everywhere, witches fly on broomsticks, evil people (or are they people?) wander around, and they all want your death. But you are not to be trifled with and can easily turn from a human into a monster or a bat. But do not confuse a mouse with Dracula; their portrait similarity is coincidental. Remember, you are the Night Hunter. From the name, it is clear that your goal is to destroy everything and everyone. And, of course, to find the exit from the maze.

Memory: at least 128 Kilobytes Control: keys Q, A, O, P, SP Music for Ay-chip: yes Effects for Ay-chip: yes

Music and graphics rating (maximum - 100 points): music and sound effects 95 graphics and graphic effects 100

EXTREME 48/128K

Author: Digital Integration 1991

In this game, you can test yourself in the role of a robot astronaut. This is one of the best games in its genre, which can be characterized as "space maze shooter." The action begins at your base, where you can always replenish energy and ammo (remember this place). Then comes the maze and shooting at moving targets. As you progress through the game, you will collect certain items. One example: to pass through the doors blocking the passage, as soon as you approach them, you need to perform the following trick: start the game, fly left to the limit, and then shoot for a while at the flying saucer you find there. From it, some TURBO MODE will spill out, which you should take and use at the right moment in the right place.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types Music for Ay-chip: no Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics rating: music and sound effects 0 graphics and graphic effects 100

GRELL & FALLA 48/128K

Author: BIG RED Software, CODEMASTERS

Grell and Falla is a colorful fantasy game where you can control both a charming little man and a fairy. This is another walking-collecting game with beautiful colorful graphics, pleasant music, and an interesting plot.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types (no assignment) Music for Ay-chip: yes in 128K Effects for Ay-chip: yes in 128K

Music and graphics rating: music and sound effects 100 graphics and graphic effects 100

DUCK OUT 48/128K

Author: FERNANDO & IGNASIO

Once, a duck decided to take a large frying pan and take a little walk. But apparently, she went to war against the whole planet, as everyone who crossed her path had the opportunity to test the strength of that very frying pan on their own heads. What does the duck have against peaceful passersby? This question is for you, as you are the one controlling the fierce bird. The game is rich in quality graphics and animation, so it's worth checking out in any case.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types Music for Ay-chip: no Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics rating: music and sound effects 0 graphics and graphic effects 100

INTERNAT. NINJA RABBITS 48/128K

Author: MICROVALUE/CREATIVE EDGS

This game vaguely resembles DOUBLE DRAGON 3, but at the same time has its own charms and drawbacks. You control a karate rabbit whose goal in life is to drive all sorts of boors and bandits off the streets of the city. The game itself is very well drawn, but the rabbit's movements are overly sluggish; he probably didn't get enough sleep, poor thing. In all other respects, it's a full-fledged fighting game.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types (no assignment) Music for Ay-chip: yes in 128K Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics rating: music and sound effects 75 graphics and graphic effects 95

ITALIAN SUPER CAR 48/128K

Author: CODEMASTERS

A racing game from CODEMASTERS, top view, colorful terrain, smooth movement, several levels, and each subsequent one is better, more beautiful, and, of course, more challenging than the previous one. This game has a sequel, which is a completely different, standalone game called SKY HIGH STUNTMAN, which is also currently being sold.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types (no assignment) Music for Ay-chip: yes in 128K Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics rating: music and sound effects 85 graphics and graphic effects 100

SLY SPY SECRET AGENT 128K.

Author: CREATIONS SOFTWARE, OCEAN, D.EAST

How would you like to feel like James Bond? After selecting the control, you will be prompted to enter any three-digit code, by which you will be called from now on. And after that - to battle! The game has several different levels and is quite interesting.

Memory: at least 128 Kilobytes Control: all types Music for Ay-chip: yes Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics ratings: music and sound effects 100 graphics and graphic effects 100

THE TURN or XOR'EM ALL

Author: CREATESOFT RESEARCH LTD 1995

Something similar already existed on the Amiga, and now a version has appeared for the Spectrum. THE TURN or XOR'EM ALL is an interesting puzzle game, the essence of which is to achieve a given pattern using flipping "stones" on the board.

Memory: at least 48 Kilobytes Control: all types + mouse Music for Ay-chip: yes in 128K Effects for Ay-chip: no

Music and graphics ratings: music and sound effects 90 graphics and graphic effects 99

SEXTRIS 128K.

Author: SILICON BRAINS GROUP 1995

Another Tetris game, but this time the game is accompanied by very high-quality music, and in the background, images taken from IBM change.

Contents of the publication: ZX Format #02

• IS-DOS
  Announcement of a school-ready hardware-software complex by Iskra Soft and Peters, featuring a networked computer class setup on ZX Spectrum with IS-DOS.
• IS-DOS - Владимир Елисеев
  Explanation of command line monitor and text editor restart in IS-DOS using mon.com utility as an example.
• IS-DOS
  Introduction to IS-DOS system utilities, covering functions like help, user menu, file viewing, editing, and file operations.
• IS-DOS
  Detailed description of the eliminat.com program for freeing memory from resident tasks and drivers, featuring interactive mode and command-line keys. Specific channel numbers allocated for task and driver types. Includes usage options and color customization.
• IS-DOS Window System - Владимир Елисеев
  Exploration of IS-DOS window system restarts for printing text in windows and absolute screen coordinates. Examples of restart implementations such as lwt, adrwt, lenwt, prstr, str, and lnstr. Continuation to cover auxiliary restarts in next issue.
• Assembler
  Introduction to assembly language basics, focusing on flags, arithmetic operations, and register manipulation. Discusses addition, subtraction, and complex operations like multiplication and division through examples. Highlights specific assembly commands and their functions for ZX Spectrum.
• Hardware
  Discussion of hardware modifications for Scorpion ZS-256-Turbo, including the implementation of a Turbo/Normal switch. Pros and cons of software-based switching methods. Advice on soldering and circuit adjustments.
• Hardware
  Discussion of a new music add-on for ZX Spectrum by X-TRADE and HACKER STINGER, called 'ZX GENERAL SOUND', offering high-quality audio and minimal processor usage.
• Hardware
  Discussion on hardware innovations and marketing strategies, focusing on mouse and keyboard interfaces for ZX Spectrum. Critique of competitor's misleading advertising and analysis of serial versus passive mouse technology. Author questions necessity and cost of advanced features.
• Hardware
  Discussion of hardware acceleration methods for ZX Spectrum, focusing on turbo-modes and their effects on performance and compatibility.
• Toys
  Fantasy tale about magical creatures battling human intrusion. Main character recruits allies for a quest to restore the land's former glory. Challenges include finding tools, overcoming obstacles, and reviving companions.
• Toys
  Review of 'Carrier Command' game, focusing on its strategic and simulation aspects. Includes detailed gameplay mechanics, controls, and objectives. Highlights strategies for success and unique features like managing resources and autonomous systems.
• Interview
  Interview with Sergey Zonov and Andrey Larchenko discussing their experience with microprocessors and ZX Spectrum development, including the creation of the Scorpion ZS 256 computer.
• Information
  Contact information and staff list of ZX-Format No. 2 (1995) including editor, coders, and designers.
• Information
  Editor's address to readers of ZX Format, discussing the positive feedback, past errors, and the quest for a cartoonist, with future plans for the magazine.
• Information
  Discussion on the new interpretation of the 'PULLDOWN' window menu system for ZX Spectrum, focusing on interface updates and user interaction enhancements.
• Information
  Discussion about companies illegally distributing ZX Format, emphasizing the benefits of purchasing official copies.
• Competition
  The article discusses the lack of participation in ZX Format's competition, detailing the rules and prizes, and encourages readers to engage with new ideas.
• Let's Relax
  A humorous account of a software vendor's challenges dealing with clueless customers, illustrating the nerve-wracking nature of his job.
• Mailbox
  Overview of hardware components and prices for ZX Spectrum enthusiasts with ordering details.
• Mailbox
  Reader letters section in ZX Format #02 discusses reader feedback, addresses issues with ZX Format features, and offers future improvements.
• Premiere
  Guide to Digital Studio v1.12, a music editor for ZX Spectrum, including features, menu navigation, and the use of Digital Studio Compiler.
• For Programmers
  Exploration of tools that extend the standard Basic 48, including Renumber for Basic 128, Trace & Speed, Blast Toolkit, and ZXeditor, highlighting their functionalities and utilities.
• Various
  History of Amiga computer models and their evolution from A1000 to A4000/60T with specifications and unique features. Explanation of technical terms and differences between chip and fast memory. Mention of new developments like AGA chipset and models for different needs.
• Miscellaneous
  The article presents upcoming ZX Spectrum software releases and reviews game innovations like 'Adventures of Winnie the Pooh' and 'UFO 2: Devils of the Abyss'. It highlights features, creators, and technical requirements. It also includes announcements from SOFTLAND and Cracked Masters Group.
• Systems
  Discussion of creating music with Instrument 3.01, focusing on digitized sound. Analysis of program's capabilities and conversion from ASC Sound Master. Instructions for composition and conversion.
• What's New
  Review of new ZX Spectrum games entering the St. Petersburg market in late 1995. Detailed game descriptions, memory requirements, controls, and music/graphics evaluations. Highlights include Night Hunter, Extreme, Grell & Falla, and more.