![](/squares_tiny/publisher/0/0/0/0/2/5/8/9/zx_computing.jpg)
ZX Computing
![](/themeForest/images/clock.png)
Author: Greg Woods
Publisher: M. Orwin
Machine: Sinclair ZX81
Published in ZX Computing #14
Cassette 5
Michael Orwin, or as is now called, Orwin Software, have brought out another of their eight games cassettes for the ZX81. Namely, the cassette 5. Each game on the cassette will be reviewed separately below.
Planetoids. This game is an adaptation of the popular arcade game. The object being to shoot the rocks and other creatures floating in space. You can move and fire in eight directions, and you have a panic (hyperspace) button. The game is fast and extremely enjoyable. It could have easily been sold on its own for a reasonable amount.
Breakout. Everyone should know how to play this game, but Orwin's version has an added twist; the wall scrolls down to you. I found this much more challenging. My only criticism is that it crashed occasionally. Not very useful.
Space Rescue. This game is not as well written as the last two, as it is rather slow. However, your mission is to rescue six astronauts from the moon's surface. On your descent, you must avoid the meteors obscuring your path, and then land on a pad to collect an astronaut. Then you must weave past the aliens and dock with the mothership.
Draughts. No explanation is needed on how to play this game. This version is fast with three levels.
Byte-Man. You guessed it, another Pac-Man type game. This one has three mazes, and three ghosts chasing you. I thought this game was fast to start with, but when you've finished a maze, it really gets fast. An excellent game.
Dodgems. Another 'Pub' favourite in which you can change lanes in your car whilst dodging the computer' car opposing you. This is fast and well written, but not very addictive.
Blitz. As the name suggests, your mission is to fly over a city dropping bombs so that you can land your craft. The action is somewhat jerky however, and the program has a strange resemblance to a game in Orwin's Cassette 4.
Merchant. At last a change from the invaders. This is a simulation in which you sail from port to port, buying and selling goods in order to make a profit. You have to beware of greedy tax men (shouldn't we all!) and storms as you head towards your retirement. Another great game.
Conclusion. The Cassette 5 is an excellent buy at £6, for eight great games. If you like arcade games in particular and you've already got cassette 4, then get cassette 5. If not then get cassette 4 first.
Cassette 5 is available from: Michael Orwin, 26 Brownlow Rd, Willesden, London NW10 9QL.
Scores
Sinclair ZX81 VersionOverall | 77% |