Commodore User


Cadcam Warrior

Categories: Review: Software
Publisher: Taskset
Machine: Commodore 64

 
Published in Commodore User #17

Cadcam Warrior

Cadcam is an acronym for Computer Aided Design-Computer Aided Manufacture which is a reality here and now. But for the purposes of the scenario, we have jumped into the future to arrive at the inception of a new processing unit. Cadcam Technology have booked a whole floor at the 25th Cadcam International Show to demonstrate their remarkable machine.

Naturally, security is tight. Problem is, the machine's gone up the creek and no-one can break the security to fix it. The memory bank dedicated to human needs has gone down. There is no time for a major overhaul, but there is time to send in the mini-android MAD 2.

He must work his way across a series of 3D metal plates, exploring both surfaces and taking the necessary steps to clear each screen of the system's defences (by shooting, gathering or whatever) to enable further progress. The defences are computer-generated making everything logical - it's up to MAD 3 to crack the pattern and decipher the internal architecture to facilitate the journey to plate 8,192.

Each plate is depicted in full perspective, with ridges and holes connecting the two surfaces. The action is pure arcade reinforced with interlacing puzzles; in fact, it's almost a project. The challenge of Cadcam Warrior lies in the tactical problem of plotting your way through 8,192 screens using as many short-cuts as possible. Must be described as innovative and fresh. Taskset regard Cadcam as their best yet. Having just seen Beside the Seaside I disagree - see next month's User and decide for yourself.