Home Computing Weekly


Lode Runner

Categories: Review: Software
Author: M.N.
Publisher: Ariolasoft
Machine: Commodore 64

 
Published in Home Computing Weekly #105

This disc game is an American import, and was a great hit in the States, so it would be a surprise if it wasn't good. But don't worry, it deserves its high reputation, though it does have a few weaknesses.

It isn't a startlingly original game, but just 'another variant of the platforms-and-ladders theme. You have to guide your little man around the screen collecting gold bars and digging holes to trap the guards in. The graphics are nothing to write home about and the sound effects are distinctly average. What makes it special is the number of screens you have to play with - a staggering 150- and the inclusion of a game generator so you can design your own screens as well.

Designing a screen and saving it on disc, is made very easy for you - but designing a playable screen is, of course, much harder. It's really only when you've had a go for yourself that you appreciate the hard work which must have gone into producing all the original screens.

The edit mode which you use to design screens also enables you to select any of the original screens, though you can't register a high score unless you start with the first screen. You can speed up or slow down the game too, and there are cheat keys which give you extra lives or let you skip levels - these also invalidate high scores.

With all these options to play with, it's certainly good value for money.

M.N.

Other Reviews Of Lode Runner For The Commodore 64


Lode Runner (Ariolasoft)
Classic panic game with forgettable graphics, unbelievable addiction

Other Commodore 64 Game Reviews By M.N.


  • Jet Power Jack Front Cover
    Jet Power Jack
  • Perils Of Bear George Front Cover
    Perils Of Bear George
  • The Great American Cross-Country Road Race Front Cover
    The Great American Cross-Country Road Race
  • Terrorist Front Cover
    Terrorist
  • Maths Marathon Front Cover
    Maths Marathon
  • Catacombs Front Cover
    Catacombs
  • Castle Of Jasoom Front Cover
    Castle Of Jasoom
  • Gusher Front Cover
    Gusher
  • Pitfall! Front Cover
    Pitfall!
  • Kayak Front Cover
    Kayak