target ren. edt Commodore 64 game

Target Renegade is an action-packed sequel that follows the story of a relentless renegade seeking revenge for his brother's murder. Priced at £8.95 for the cassette version and £12.95 for the disk, this game immerses players in the gritty world of Scumville, where every move counts.

The narrative unfolds in a multi-storey car park, setting the stage for a showdown with Hell's Angels on their roaring Harley Davidsons. The protagonist, fueled by a desire for vengeance, kicks bikers off their machines, engaging in intense hand-to-hand combat. The stakes rise as players navigate through levels against the clock, with death looming as seconds tick by.

The beautifully animated sprites add a layer of sophistication to the game, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail. The graphics, reminiscent of a cartoon film, draw players into the action. While the gameplay exhibits clever touches, such as surprise attacks from bikers and varied enemy types, some find it repetitive, with a straightforward strategy for defeating adversaries.

Eight point-scoring maneuvers, including jump kicks and punches, allow players to fend off opponents. The use of weapons dropped by thugs adds a strategic element, enhancing the effectiveness of each strike. The game's difficulty, initially off-putting, becomes addictive with practice, offering a range of characters with unique skills and personalities.

The levels present diverse challenges, from battling ladies of the night and gun-toting pimps in Seedy Street to confronting skinheads in the park. The shopping mall introduces Beastie Boys fanatics and their ferocious bulldogs, while the final confrontation awaits in Mr. Big's seedy bar. The immersive gameplay is complemented by an excellent end sequence, providing players with the incentive to battle through to avenge Matt's murder.

Graphically, Target Renegade outshines its predecessor, with cartoon-quality sprites and well-designed backgrounds. The game's soundtrack and sound effects, scoring 72%, accompany the rugged action perfectly. Despite some criticisms of repetitive gameplay, the overall presentation, scoring 78%, includes a smart loading screen and a sane multiload process.

The Spectrum version proves superior in playability, offering exciting team play in a two-player mode. On the Commodore 64/128, the demand for pixel-perfection in combat becomes a drawback, contributing to a disappointing sequel for Commodore owners.

In conclusion, Target Renegade is a brilliant sequel for those who relish hand-to-hand combat over laser guns. With its engaging narrative, superb graphics, and addictive gameplay, this game deserves recognition as a standout in the beat 'em up genre.