In the mid-Eighties, the video game business was exploding with new technology and innovation. In this period, a new game was released that will turn out to be a classic and pave the way for the way forward for the platformer style: Rick Dangerous.
Developed by Core Design and launched in 1989 for various platforms including the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Atari ST, Rick Dangerous was a platform game that followed the adventures of the titular character as he navigated by treacherous temples and underground caverns seeking misplaced treasures. The game was an enormous success and is still remembered fondly by gamers today.
One of the crucial notable features of Rick Dangerous was its high level of difficulty. The game was notorious for its unforgiving gameplay mechanics and frequent deaths, which made finishing it a significant challenge. Players had to rely on their reflexes, problem-fixing skills, and memory to navigate by way of the assorted traps and obstacles in the game. The difficulty was part of what made the game so addicting and rewarding to play.
One other key characteristic of Rick Dangerous was its inspiration from classic adventure movies like Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. The game’s story revolved around Rick’s quest to recover the misplaced treasures of an historic civilization, and it was filled with unique places, booby-trapped tombs, and even Nazis. The game’s setting and story elements helped it stand out from other platformers of the time and gave it a singular personality.
Rick Dangerous was additionally notable for its use of hand-drawn graphics and sound effects. The game’s visuals were detailed and colorful, and its sound effects had been memorable and immersive. The music, in particular, was catchy and helped set the tone for the game’s motion-packed gameplay.
The impact of Rick Dangerous on the gaming industry can’t be overstated. The game helped popularize the platformer style and inspired countless different games within the years to come. Its affect will be seen in games like Tomb Raider and Uncharted, which also characteristic daring adventurers exploring exotic places and battling enemies. Rick Dangerous paved the way for these games and helped set up the template for the modern motion-adventure game.
Furthermore, the success of Rick Dangerous spawned a sequel, Rick Dangerous 2, which was launched in 1990. The sequel constructed upon the muse of the primary game and launched new gameplay mechanics and features, together with a password system that allowed players to continue their progress. Rick Dangerous 2 was also well-received and cemented the series’ legacy as a traditional platformer franchise.
In conclusion, Rick Dangerous is a game that will always be remembered as a basic within the video game industry. Its difficult gameplay, memorable story, and impressive visuals helped it stand out from different games of its time and proceed to inspire new games today. The impact of Rick Dangerous on the platformer genre can’t be overstated, and its legacy will continue to be celebrated by gamers for years to come.