Activision, a gaming giant with a history almost as ancient as prehistory, is at the forefront of marketing a game that defies the norm. Forget about cinematic adaptations like "Back to the Future 4: Prof Potts sox it to em" — this game, titled "Time Machine" by Vivid Image, is a journey through time and puzzles.
In the game, you assume the role of Professor Potts, a mad scientist with a penchant for time travel. The story kicks off with a terrorist attack that propels Potts 10,000,000 years into the past. Now, armed with eccentric inventions and a damaged time machine, Potts must navigate through different time zones, altering history to save the future. The puzzles range from cooling down a hot prehistoric planet to heating up an ice age, each requiring a unique solution.
Graphically superb and technically brilliant, the game boasts a single-load system, sparing players from nightmarish multiloading. The screens in each time zone, though similar in layout, exhibit brilliant graphic work, portraying the effects of erosion and evolution over the ages. The game's design includes ingenious touches, like Pteradactyl eggs releasing flying taxis and teleport boxes for strategic gameplay.
The complexity of the puzzles necessitates navigating between time zones, as solutions often demand resources spanning multiple eras. The game cleverly integrates a radar warning system, indicating the safety of each screen in different time zones. As you progress, more time zones unfold, each with its own set of challenges and distinct features.
The review sings praises for the game's imaginative elements, citing instances like planting a seed in prehistoric times and discovering a fully grown tree in the future. The solutions to puzzles, while not obvious, follow a logical progression, making the gameplay both challenging and compulsive. Whether on the Amiga or the C64, "Time Machine" captivates with its cartoonish visuals, speech bubbles, and entertaining details, earning high recommendations for enthusiasts of exploration, puzzle-solving, and reflex challenges.
In conclusion, "Time Machine" by Vivid Image stands out as a marvellous arcade adventure, offering a seamless and engaging experience across different time periods. With its inventive gameplay and impressive graphics, it's a must-have for those who appreciate the fusion of intellect and action in gaming.
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