Zzap
1st September 1989
Categories: Review: Software
Publisher: Interactive
Machine: Commodore 64/128
Published in Zzap #53
Inner Space
This horizontally-scrolling, multi-load shoot-'em-up has nine levels, with over 130 alien types. Aliens come in the usual attack waves, and if you destroy a wave you get an energy point to activate a special system. The twist is that if you fail to wipe out a wave you lose an energy unit, and on top of that the first system causes you to lose a life! The other systems are smart bomb, shield, speed-up, normal weapon, photon pulsar, increase shield power and extra life, activated by hitting the space bar.
Robin
We've seen it all before - here comes a Sanxion meets Delta clone with very few frills to match the two classic Thalamus games. Inner Space is something of a mixed up program with smartly executed parallax scrolling, good looking backdrops and moody title music on the one hand, and horrendously simple title screen, shallow presentation and little gameplay variety on the other. Leave it well alone.
Stu
Inner Space is distinguished by some good graphics with parallax scrolling fast enough to be slightly disorientating.
The intro tune is similarly impressive and sound FX okay, but playability is dubious. The only real innovation on the horizontal shoot-'em-up format is the fact that, if you don't wipe out a wave, you lose one of your previously collected energy units - especially irritating when the add-on weapons aren't that impressive.
Verdict
Presentation 42%
Good cover art and loading screen, but no scenario.
Graphics 60%
The end-of-level monsters are somewhat disappointing.
Sound 48%
Good intro tune, but no in-game music.
Hookability 47%
Basic shoot-'em-up appeal.
Lastability 38%
Little variety in nine multi-load levels.
Overall 44%
A mediocre shoot-'em-up with irksome add-on weapons.