Frantick

Munsie power!!

I remember playing Frantick years ago so it's about time I gave this another shot. Well, after today's attempt, I still suck eggs but this is a cracking game. Released in 1994 by the legend that is Dave Munsie, Frantick is a shooter like a 2D Tempest! The documentation states that your reflexes and dexterity will be tested.

It's not wrong! This game is challenging so features two extra game modes to help train you: Easy and Droid. Personally, I preferred the help from my trusty droid who seemed to enjoy sacrificing itself to compensate for my sluggish reactions. I suggest playing in either mode for several games of practice, you'll need it.

Our spaceship is situated within a horizontal stripe along the middle of the screen. We can't escape this area but can move along it and fire up/downwards at the enemies. These blighters ascend on your position, so be quick and kill them before they reach you. One touch and you're brown bread, but there are power-ups to help and bonuses. If things get too crazy then whack the spacebar to activate a limited supply of nukes.

Graphically, things are pretty simple but using freakishly psychedelic styles! There are different aliens and everything comes alive with colour. Heck, there is even an epilepsy warning! The sound effects are superb and STe owners, with enough RAM, can listen to streamed DMA music in-game which I really enjoyed!!

As with Anarchy, this is one of those games that is too fast for old Stevie. Frantick bemuses and overwhelms me with its furious action but it's such a thrill. But boy, what a ride. This is what you'd call a great example of arcade-style gaming. Just make sure you wear cheap sunglasses and drink lots of coffee first!

I've thoroughly enjoyed Frantick; it's nothing less than a ridiculous shoot 'em up!!

Download at AtariMania (registered game).

 [ Install to hdd/ultrasatan for best results ]