A&B Computing
1st July 1983The title Galactic Commander is not really representative of the game. I was expecting another 'Star Trek' game. Instead, the game is a very enjoyable variation on the 'Lunar Lander' theme.
The game has nine levels. You start off trying to land your shuttle safely on the pad under normal gravity conditions. To control the shuttle you use the A and D keys to fire the left and right steering jets. The RETURN key provides control of the main descent engine. As with every lander program, you have to lightly drop the shuttle onto its base.
Level 0 is quite easy to accomplish and when you complete it you move up to the next level. Here you are faced with treble gravity so you might plummet to the ground. On higher levels you have to take off from a mothership, land, pick up cargo, take off and re-dock with the mothership. This gets increasingly difficult as you have to deal with a rogue gunman who delights in taking the occasional pot shot at you. When you finally reach the last level you have to fly through an underground cavern and avoid moon monsters at the same time. The helpful hint for this section is that it is nearly impossible to accomplish!
The graphics used in the program are superb. Everything is presented in black and white to allow for higher definition. All the craft and buildings are incredibly detailed and this goes a long way to increase the appeal of the game.
This game is definitely one to get hooked on. The challenge remains through all the levels and it is not easy to master. The variety between levels keeps the game fresh and the humorous notes that preface each level add a touch of light relief.