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This disk-based game from Ariolasoft is a series of
mini games, each with varying themes, that link together
to form the plot for this Science Fiction arcade adventure.
The galaxy providing the backdrop to all the goings
on is ruled over by a particularly evil female called
Alana who gains all her power from a semi-mystical amulet
and she herself is defended by the fleets of star-fighters,
armoured space stations and the depths of space itself.
The
amulet is really the root of all evil and this may only
be destroyed by obtaining a special power rod and equal
amounts of two rare elements, the combination of which
will solve all the galaxy's problems until the next
major crisis evolves. Just looking for these elements
is a big enough search on its own but there is more.
Negotiating stars in hyperspace, asteroids and enemy
vessels in normal space, are only three of the many
hazards that constantly dog your progress.
The
game is sold in Ariolasoft's standard disk sized, gatefold
sleeve packaging, on which the instructions, history
and cryptic clues are printed. As the game is loading,
a map of the galaxy is displayed across the screen.
The game is in four warp stages, any of which are accessible
from the very beginning. However, without the correct
password to enter a particular section of the game,
play is likely to be very difficult. What's more, all
four sections of the game must he thoroughly explored
before it can be successfully completed. Lastly, because
of the size of each section, they are loaded and stored
separately. Sections one and two being on the first
side of the disk; three and four on the other.
The
first section of the game takes place in metaspace.
As your ship travels on its course through the galaxy,
it must negotiate Red Giants and Blue Dwarves. Hitting
either of these destroys the ship unless the energy
shield is activated (and this may only be put to limited
use). Passing near to a Red Giant affects the amount
of energy available whereas Blue Dwarves have the same
effect, but on time. It is random whether they affect
these values, positively or negatively. Time and energy
are crucial factors in the game, so it can pay to play
dangerously at this stage. Gates into normal space appear
frequently and if these are entered, metaspace is instantly
left behind.
Normal
space has dangers of its own. Apart from the asteroids
which inevitably cross the ship's path from time to
time, fighter wings will protect any starbase that may
be present. As each wave of fighters is defeated, the
space station becomes nearer. Eventually it's possible
to leave the ship and attempt entry into the enemy base.
Even at this stage, defences are operating and the astronaut's
figure has to be carefully manipulated across the screen
to avoid them. Once the ship has been entered, part
of a puzzle must be worked out before you can leave.
Occasionally,
landing on small worlds is necessary in order to find
the elements required to power the proton lance required
for Alana's destruction. This section is a Lunar Lander
type game. Navigating the tunnels leading down into
the hearts of the worlds is a tricky job, needing no
mean amount of dexterity.
Rather
than have a number of lives dominating the game, there
are various resources available. Energy and time are
two of these. Unrepaired damage units also have a part
to play in the game. When hits from enemy ships or asteroids
create damage, the repair option may be implemented.
A number of these repair points may be allocated to
damage control but the supply is limited. Your ship
has a crew of fifty men, some of whom will be sustained
as casualties during combat. When any of these resources
are drained, the game will have reached its end.
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