C&VG


Super Scramble

Publisher: Terminal
Machine: Commodore 64

 
Published in Computer & Video Games #23

Super Scramble

Every new machine soon acquires a library of classic game. Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Galaxians - every games player worth his joystick will want a decent version of these titles in his collection.

One of these classic games is Scramble - the famous scrolling arcade game that still holds on to prime positions in pubs and arcades - although its cabinet may now be pretty battered.

Not surprising then that among the first wave of games for the new Commodore 64 should be a version of Scramble. Terminal's Super Scramble sticks fairly closely to the arcade version.

Super Skramble

For those of you who have never seen Scramble - where have you been? Here's a brief rundown on the game.

You begin scrolling over mountainous terrain bombing fuel dumps and ground to air missiles. As you advance further the missiles are fired at you - leaving the ground with a most realistic swishing sound.

There are also blue helicopters on the ground that you can pick off for extra points.

Super Skramble

Terminal have managed to produce very smooth scrolling graphics. The ground unfolds gently and evenly. The second and third waves are not quite so close to the arcade game - but this does not detract from the quality of the game.

There are no spiralling yellow aliens or red fireballs. Despite this there are plenty of obstacles and hazards to be overcome. You'll read all about them later in this review!

A careful eye on the fuel gauge is vital in this game and you can't afford to miss a single fuel dump. An audible signal would have been an improvement to show when the fuel supply is running down. Fuel is very important as you move further into the Scramble system.

Super Skramble

You'll need to be a skilled pilot to get through the narrow cave sector - particularly on the second time around as bouncing aliens rebound towards you off the roof and floor of the cave.

Dodge them and it's off to more action and adventure in your quest for the giant spaceship which must be destroyed for a successful mission.

Just two gripes - it's difficult to stick to the ground and shoot up everything as it appears out of the left of the screen as you can in the arcade version - this is due to the slow speed of fire and awkward shape of the ship.

The flight information is also poorly presented using a narrow strip at the bottom of the screen which is difficult to read during the game.

These two points aside, Super Scramble is an excellent game and is available now from Manchester-based Terminal Software at £7.95.