Previous Next

Avalon is a superb new 3D graphical adventure program for the Spectrum. The screen displays are incredible; it's amazing what can be achieved on a Spectrum when programmers exert themselves, and this game is easily on a par with many Atari programs.

The format is reminiscent of Atic Atac or Sabre Wulf, but involves many adventure elements as well. The 3D effect is one of the best around; however, it still isn't totally convincing. The sprite movement of characters around the screen is quite smooth; making it fun just to travel round the various rooms watching the action.

A joystick is a big help as moving through doors can be tricky for the inexperienced. There are numerous characters to meet and problems to be solved; however, overall the style is far more arcade-game than adventure.

Instead of a score option, you have stages and ranks to ascend as your skill progresses. As you have assumed the role of Maroc the magician there are various spells to collect on your journey, e.g. "unseen", "energise", "missile", "flame" and "servant" (who can help you collect objects, etc). Mapping is possible by pausing the game at suitable locations and SAVE/LOAD 'old' game is supported.

Your quest is to travel through the eight levels and finally to banish the Lords of Chaos from the Isle of Glass. There are numerous rooms to explore and objects to locate; but selecting and activating spells can be difficult, especially if you're being chased by enemies at the time. This makes the game hard to play at first; however, it's well worth persevering with it.

Presumably it will appeal most to those people whose manual skills allow them to beat Atic Atac with ease, and who are looking for something more challenging. Hopefully, this trend in advanced graphics and player interaction will continue in other similar programs. It certainly seems to point the way for the future trend in adventures.

Overall, a superb game whose merits cannot be too highly praised.