Previous Next

No prizes for guessing which famous arcade game this is a version of. Like many of Algray's games, Skramble follows the original's format as closely as possible within machine limitations.

For any of you who don't already know, the object of Scramble-type games is to guide your little spaceship through tunnels and caves while avoiding and bombing the usual alien welcoming committee.

To earn points and survive, alien warships, rockets and meteors must be zapped, along with enemy ground bases. There is a fuel limit and the only way to complete each section is to bomb fuel dumps which mysteriously refuel your craft.

The ultimate aim of the game is to reach and land on a 'homing slot' at the end of the tunnel. Needless to say, to get that far is very difficult indeed and I haven't got anywhere near it - yet. Apparently, should you be clever enough to make it, there is a chance of winning £100 from Algray.

The game is entirely in machine code, making it fast and reasonably smooth. The controls take a while to master and the game a lot longer, but all this adds to the interest. Good graphics, sound and colour, making this an excellent game.

I.O.