Personal Computer Games


Brainstorm

Author: SC
Publisher: Virgin Games
Machine: BBC Model B

 
Published in Personal Computer Games #10

Brainstorm

Brainstorm is an unusual two-player game which combines the excitement of combat with the challenge of careful strategic thinking.

Each player controls a laser base, owns a 'brain', and has a supply of 'reflective prisms'. The aim of the game is to destroy your opponent's brain.

The screen is divided into a grid, and the two laser bases are located opposite each other on the left and right sides of the grid. Each player takes it in turn to fire his laser across the grid in an attempt to wipe out his opponent.

Brainstorm

The grid is littered with prisms which deflect the laser beam in different directions, according to their 'reflective index'. You can only discover how a certain prism will deflect your beam by firing at it. Needless to say, both brains are well shielded by prisms.

You could of course just keep firing at all the prisms, hoping that you'll hit one which wil reflect your beam onto your opponent's brain. Chances are, however, that this won't be possible, and this is where your own supply of prisms comes in handy.

Apart from one or two simple restrictions, you can place a prism anywhere on the grid. More importantly, before placing it, you can determine its 'reflective index', and therefore in which direction it will reflect.

Careful planning is needed to both ensure yourself of a shot at the enemy and also block your opponent's attempts.

Brainstorm is an original game that should appeal to anyone who isn't too concerned with speedy action and alien blasting. It will repay careful planning and practice.

SC

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