Orc Attack Commodore 64 game

Orc Attack is a fixed shooter video game created by Dean Lock for the Atari 8-bit family and initially published in 1983 by Thorn EMI. The game was later re-released for the Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum platforms after Thorn's rebranding as Creative Sparks. Subsequently, budget versions were made available through Sparklers and Top Ten. In Orc Attack, players are tasked with defending a castle wall by strategically dropping boulders onto climbing orcs. Despite its pixelated visuals, Orc Attack features a notable level of violence.

Gameplay:

Players control a character situated atop a castle wall, employing rocks and boiling oil to fend off an onslaught of orcs. The orcs utilize ladders to ascend the wall. If an orc successfully reaches the ramparts, players have the option to eliminate it using a sword, though this action draws attention away from the climbing orcs. Additionally, an evil sorcerer deploys malevolent spirits to further challenge the players.

Reception:

ANALOG Computing, a magazine focused on the Atari 8-bit, labeled Orc Attack as "undoubtedly the most violent and gratifyingly satisfying shoot-'em-up available today (although 'drop-'em-down' might be a more precise description)." Arcade Express praised the game, stating, "Orc Attack seamlessly combines fast-paced action with strategic elements, resulting in a compelling overall experience," giving it a rating of 8/10. CRASH, a ZX Spectrum magazine, awarded Orc Attack an impressive rating of 91%.