The title is, of course, a misnomer. What we have here is a good collection of recent
releases (mainly of Icon software) which could still sell at full price. Seven games
(rather more if you count International Megasports as more than one) is a bargain, even
if the price seems like a lot to shell out at once.
The games on two cassettes and, confusingly, Audiogenic have also just released a twin
The Genesis Project
Yet another Star Trek game but above the average quality. A detailed control panel and
nicely scrolling stars soon make you forget the search for Trilithium crystals and
concentrate on shooting aliens, etc. Yet more evidence of The Art Crew's talent and a
game that repays extended play.
Flip
Remember a card memory game called Pairs, where you have to pick up two cards at a
time and try to recall where the pairs are? This is a computer version with stunningly
competent little cartoons instead of cards and a range of well-programmed theme songs
as well.
Play against the computer or an opponent, but however you choose to do it, this is one
of the very few games that will entrance non-computer lovers. Great for parties.
This deserves a much wider exposure than it received as an Icon release and a big tip
of the hat to programmers Adrian Stephens and John Dale for taking a simple idea and
turning it into an understated display of very fine talent.
Chrysalis
Dave Mann, of Contraption fame, again displays his wacky humour, excellent use of
music and large flicker-free objects in an oblique variant of Pacman. Outwit the mutant
worms in a garden maze with swinging gates. A lot of fun - you'll play this one again
and again.
Drain Mania
A fairly standard platform game that plays well enough but doesn't inspire me, I'm
afraid.
Bug Eyes
The original Bug Eyes was compulsively playable with simple left/right controls as you
directed a little spaceman through caverns of descending pistons, flying monsters, etc.
Bug Eyes 2 is an instant classic. Much the same plot and gameplay but, with extra puzzles and keys to collect.
Mapping is essential here. Shingo reviewed Bug Eyes 2 in A&B in July and liked it. I agree.
International Megasports
Yet another collection of sporting events; this time with Running, Skeet Shooting, Long
Horse, Archery, Hurdles, High and Long Jump as the events.
Nicely programmed but rather a poor relation of Tynesoft's Commonwealth Games. Still,
there are some nice touches of humour here and the game is quite playable.