Computer Gamer


Star Raiders II

Publisher: Electric Dreams
Machine: Commodore 64/128

 
Published in Computer Gamer #27

Star Raiders II

This sequel to one of Jeff Minter's best games is a desperate fight for survival as you single-handedly take on the Zylon fleets.

The Zylons were soundly beaten in the first Star Raiders but in this game they have a new leader and he wants revenge! Unfortunatey, you're the only Star Raider commander left and so you are on your own when the Zylons decide it's time to invade the Celos IV system.

Luckily, you have the Liberty star fighter that is very capable of blasting the Zylon fighters, destroyers *and* bases into oblivion with its three computer-controlled weapons.

Star Raiders II

But the Zylons have you completely outnumbered. They even have bases that can reinforce their fleets aster than you can blast them. These bases are on other planets so you should spend time bombing these, once you've fought back the Zylon advance.

But you can't afford to wipe out all the bases in one raid as by the time you return the Zylon destroyers will have destroyed the bases on the four planets you're supposed to be defending. And their fighters will also have wiped out the space stations where you go for refueling and repairs.

Star Raiders II demands total concentration from players who must use a combination of strategy - when to bomb or defend, and skill to win. As well as dropping bombs, there are dogfights and you have to take out the incredibly difficult to hit Zylon destroyers as they hover over your cities.

Your performance is rated after every mission. You can end up as an ensign - demotion after a humiliating defeat, or an admiral the reward for victory. In the end of game report you will also find listed the number of Zylons you've trashed.

It's good to see that there's still life in an old classic although the graphics are looking a little dated. If you'd like your shoot-'em-up skills to be tested to their limits then sign up for Star Raiders II.