ZX Computing


Gauntlet

Categories: Review: Software
Author: Nick Pearce
Publisher: PSS
Machine: Sinclair ZX81

 
Published in ZX Computing #16

Gauntlet

Gauntlet is an arcade type game. Back to normal ZX81 graphics, but it is quite a good simulation.

The first thing to do after loading is to select from the one or two player options available. In the two player mode, the opponents play alternately and separate scores are held.

The object is to complete successive bombing runs over enemy territory. The terrain is mountainous, and the ground bristles with enemy guns and rockets; and of course, you are constantly shot at as you fly overhead.

You have bombs and missiles to defend yourself. You have to destroy fuel dumps occasionally to maintain enough fuel to continue your mission.

Six phases complete the game. The scenario is the same each time the game is played, so as you become more experienced and develop tactics to cope with each phase a long game with a high score is possible. The action is reasonably good, you can move diagonally as well as forwards, backwards and up and down.

The company claim that the speed of Gauntlet has been carefully selected to match the arcade game it simulates. I thought it perhaps a little slow but it is possible to speed it up using certain POKE commands.

Gauntlet is a good game, and a reasonable buy.

Nick Pearce

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