Games Computing


Byte

Categories: Review: Software
Publisher: Cases Computer Simulations
Machine: Spectrum 48K/128K

 
Published in Games Computing #4

Byte (Cases Computer Simulations)

Much of the commercial software available loads a screen file before the main file to give the user something pretty to look at while cursing himself for choosing such a slow cassette-based system and wondering if he can afford the micro-drive next month. So, why does Byte load the picture as the very last file after waiting five minutes faced with a blank screen?

After you select one of the seven skill levels you are offered the opportunity to purchase a computer system. Being a faithful Spectrum user I chose the Sinclair machine and proceeded to spend the rest of my allotted cash on various peripherals. The section of the game is very tedious and poorly error-trapped. The computer goes on to draw a picture of a grave stone with the caption 'just kidding'. All very nice, but when you have to wait a minute it is a bit pointless.

The game entails exploring the system (memories of TRON?) and buying various bits and pieces. These include teletext modules and estimating circuits. Each keystroke is followed by about seven seconds of noise (the inlay says music), making entry extremely tedious. You are also treated to such insults as 'you moron'.

The whole game involves moving up, down, left, right, forward, and backward - does this really justify the 'true 3D adventure' boast? There are monsters to do battle with and other tasks.

The game is written in BASIC and is consequently very slow and it jumped my system more than once.

Other Reviews Of Byte For The Spectrum 48K/128K


Byte (Cases)
A review by S.E. (Home Computing Weekly)

Byte (Cases)
A review by (Crash)

Byte (Cases)
A review by (Sinclair User)