tangent Commodore 64 game

Tangent's Micro Selection, a horizontally scrolling shoot 'em up, finally emerges from obscurity courtesy of The Edge's budget label. The game features great graphics, a visually engaging Lizard title screen, and a neat Demon soundtrack by Hugh Binns. The presentation is inviting, drawing players in with a promise of an exciting gaming experience. However, the initial enthusiasm fades as the game unfolds.

The storyline revolves around the four-robot crew of the survey craft Orion, facing an invasion by mechanical aliens known as Zimen. The Zimen have taken control of the ship, confining each robot to separate compartments and reprogramming ship systems for their own purposes. Players must navigate through the maze, take control of each robot, and access the main computer to regain control of the ship and ultimately win the game.

The graphics boast a pretty parallax scrolling routine and well-drawn sprites, contributing to a visually appealing gaming environment. The soundtrack includes a good Demon title tune and spot FX, enhancing the overall audio experience. However, despite these aesthetic features, the gameplay falls short of expectations.

While the title screen and in-game graphics engage players initially, the simplicity of the game becomes evident over time. The lack of a well-considered gameplan results in overly straightforward gameplay, reminiscent of a mindless shoot 'em up. The absence of additional features, such as a two-player option and more in-game effects, contributes to the feeling that the game could have been more captivating with some thoughtful enhancements.

On a positive note, the parallax scrolling is visually appealing, with standout levels, and the action intensifies on later levels. However, the unimaginative alien patterns and lack of atmospheric in-game sound leave much to be desired. The game's hookability is hampered by its uncomplicated action, providing only mild stimulation, and the overall lastability suffers due to a lack of variation in the action across its fifteen levels.

In summary, Tangent's Micro Selection presents an initially engaging prospect with its neat graphics and soundtrack, but the lack of depth in gameplay, absence of additional features, and simplicity of action result in a game that falls short of its potential. While not a terrible choice for a three-quid investment, players seeking a more immersive and varied experience may find themselves wanting more from this shoot 'em up.