Games Computing


B. C. Bill

Publisher: Imagine
Machine: Commodore 64

 
Published in Games Computing #15

B. C. Bill (Imagine)

As the name suggests the scenario of this game is set in pre-historic times where polygamy was the norm. Bill is the character around whom the game revolves, as it is his task to capture and feed an ever-growing family (in terms of number of wives). The task therefore requires Bill to collect as many wives as possible (who just happen to be wandering around looking for trouble!), by clubbing and dragging them back to his lair. This then leads to the appearance of the children. All of whom have to be kept well fed by clubbing wandering food, cooking it and then taking it back to the cave.

Each wife and child requires one unit of cooked food per season to keep them satisfied. But if these meagre requirements are not met then the wife with her children will depart in search of another home. If the entire family decides to leave then Bill dies of a broken heart (besides other ailments). As the seasons visibly change, the wives that are well fed each produce one offspring at regular intervals, thereby increasing not only the family but also the fight for survival.

To make life a little less mundane, carnivorous dinosaurs wander about eating anyone in their path, and occasionally his cave is attacked by various raiding parties. The sole means of defence are provided by the constant waving of Bill's club.

To ease the pressure, each child leaves home after three years to fend for themselves. Bill's directional and club movements are controlled by the keyboard or a Joystick.

The game is addictive though it does become increasingly difficult as the area overflows with wives, kids, food and dinosaurs.