Previous Next

Space Shuttle from Microdeal is one of the best programs I have come across for the Dragon 32. It is impressive from the start with attractive styled packaging and a fully comprehensive 'flight manual'. Before embarking on the game a through read of the manual is essential.

The purpose is to take the Space Shuttle into orbit on a predetermined flight path, dock it with a rogue satellite, rescue the satellite, load it into the Space Shuttle's cargo bay and then re-enter the earth's atmosphere and land the shuttle safely. And that's all!?!

It sounds easy, but first with the use of rocket jets you have to manoeuvre the shuttle into a very tight 'window' for orbit. You play against the clock and there's little or no room for error. Once in orbit you have to get them up along close to the satellite for the 'rescue' mission. If the clock beats you in those stages, don't worry because the automatic pilot takes over and gets you there - but of course you don't score any points. Before attempting to complete the mission you must accomplish the rescue stage, there's no time limit and you always succeed. Whatever happens you always finish up scoring some points! Next come the re-entry and landing procedures. These are the most difficult to achieve - and failure results in a crash. I've played it many times and each time when I think I'm getting the hang of it I've always been brought to earth with a big bump. But don't be dismayed. I asked a friend, a professional airline pilot to try, and he crashed it each time. But he did feel that, given the usual six months conversion course that any pilot has to go through, he would ultimately be successful!

The program is written by a NASA employee and follows as closely as possible the manoeuverings of the real thing.

The program makes use of the Dragon's high resolution graphics and joysticks are essential. As I said - a fascinating game.