ZX Computing


Macro Construction And Animation

Author: Paul Holmes
Publisher: Pinehurst Data Studios
Machine: Spectrum 48K

 
Published in ZX Computing #10

Macro Construction And Animation

This is one of the most original ideas for a piece of software I have seen yet. It is designed to launch the user into the world of 'Computer Moves'; well, that is what they claim, though I would describe these as 'Animated stories' than anything else.

It comes complete with a well-written manual and demonstration 'Movie'. Though the graphics are not up to the latest arcade standard, the package is not designed to be the latest video game. It is a 'fun' idea that I found quite entertaining to use and, on the whole, the program does the task very well.

The sequences are built up using a selection of commands. The most common command is the 'Cast' command which allows you to call up any member of the 'cast' (includes men, women, a dog, a bird, a helicopter and many others) and make it move around or across the screen. It also has a number of other commands allowing the 'Director' to build up objects such as houses, or to display their standard sun, or a horizon. An interesting feature is that the 'movie maker' can store tunes and play them back at key points in the story. There is a command which allows text to be printed on the screen, which is useful for representing speech by the characters. On the whole, the program is very versatile and I found it an entertaining change from the usual "shoot-'em-up" game.

The cassette is produced by 'Pinehurst Data Studios' (Sounds suspiciously like Pinewood Film Studios, doesn't it?) and sells for £7. Good value, with lasting appeal.

Paul Holmes

Other Spectrum 48K Game Reviews By Paul Holmes


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    Adventure One
  • Music Maker Front Cover
    Music Maker
  • Firework Music Front Cover
    Firework Music
  • Grasp Front Cover
    Grasp
  • Figaro II Front Cover
    Figaro II
  • Superdraw Front Cover
    Superdraw