Computer Gamer


Alien

Publisher: Bug Byte
Machine: Commodore 64/128

 
Published in Computer Gamer #22

Alien

Based on the original Alien film (not the recent sequel) this game. now it has been re-released as part of the budget, Bug-Byte, range.

The game gives you the almost impossible task of controlling the doomed crew of the Nostromo who are trying to track down and kill the alien before it gets you. To add to your troubles you must also complete the search before your oxygen supply runs out.

Each of the crew has his or her own personality and morale status that determines whether they feel like carrying out your orders or if they'd prefer to run away.

Alien

Joystick-controlled menus allow you to bully and cajole Dallas, Kane, Ripley and the others into action as you get them to search the ship. As well as the three decks, the Nostromo has a network of air ducts that lead from one air grille to another. If you find a grille removed then the alien was here, but has now moved on.

Finding the alien often leads to that character being eaten unless they've managed to find a useful weapon among the dozens of objects that are strewn around the ship.

Even with six crew to command (the game always begins with one corpse) the action seems slow as it takes so long for your orders to be followed by the crew. This prevented Alien attaining any real chart success as a full-priced game but as a budget one it's sure to do better.