ZX Computing


Metabolis

Publisher: Gremlin
Machine: Spectrum 48K

 
Published in ZX Computing #21

Metabolis

The Kremins have converted all human life into the lesser forms of mice and birds. You, being different, ended up transformed into a bird but retained your human brain and so, once again, it's up to you to save the human race.

To survive and complete your mission you have to find the serum which will change you back into human form, destroy the area with the four bits of nuclear fuel which you find lying about, and make your escape. Some of the lifeforms will help, though most will attack you. Also you have to find and eat food regularly and watch your heart as the transformation left it weak.

Essentially this is a maze dodge-chase-and-collect game, but it is well written and all the screens that I managed to visit out of the 150 in the game, were colourful and well designed. It is a fast and furious game, and some of the graphics reminded me of the White Lightning program, but a wide variety of techniques have been used. Your bird identity is lovely, it is such a cute and lovable graphic that it seemed a pity to change it back into a mere mortal.

Although not state of the art it is a challenging and respectable program which deserves consideration for a place in your games collection.