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As in the Amiga version (Issue 51, 92%), the plot is a surreal one. You've been turned into a flaming star by the Lord of Light and must conquer the twelve astrological signs (each containing thre battles).

To win a battle you must help the orange good 'growth' to surround and kill enemy portals. This is achieved by shooting evil growth and by strategically planting spores which turn into good portals. To make this more difficult, an evil guardian roams around the screen, reducing your energy on contact. In the middle of the screen is the sun or moon (good spores are only created during daytime) which opens to reveal a tarot card - collect the good ones (multiples, sunburst, etc) and avoid the bad (increased evil growth, reduced time limit, etc).

The graphics in C64 Wicked are a good representation of the original Amiga game's, the only error being the inconspicuous portals and spores; just small smashing squares which are very difficult to spot, especially in a moment of panic!

However, the gameplay is everything it was on the Amiga; a highly addictive mixture of arcade action and strategy.

A novel and extremely playable Amiga shoot-'em-up has lost little of its appeal on the C64. The challenge of battling off the evil guardian, looking out for good and bad power-ups, while simultaneously conducting a mini-strategy game against the evil growth is superb. At less than half the price of the original, it deserves serious consideration.

Presentation 86%
Atmospheric intro sequence, spooky astrological map and lots more besides.

Graphics 82%
Initially confusing, but there's some very good detail there if you get time to notice it.

Sound 85%
Lots of excellent tunelets to signify various stages of the game. Good spot FX.

Hookability 81%
Takes a while to get into, but soon becomes highly addictive.

Lastability 80%
Twelve levels of increasing toughness.

Overall 82%
An original, and extremely playable arcade game.