Is it time for another ripoff?
Not too dissimilar to Gauntlet, is The Chaos Engine the Bitmap Bros released in 1993. It's a top-down arcade shooter where you choose from a selection of characters before running around levels with one purpose, killing baddies! Okay, there is a [minor] puzzle element but this game is about reaping death!!
It's now that I can imagine the look on your faces. Why attempt to take on Gauntlet? Read on...
" Sometime during the last century, an experimenter with time, space and early computers created a bizarre machine. The inventor's name was Baron Fortesque and the machine was... THE CHAOS ENGINE!Although primitive the machine became incredibly powerful and went crazy, turning ordinary humans and household pets into razor-toothed, armour-plated killing machines. "
The characters; you can be one of six mercenaries each with their own skillset. Chose wisely...
So who are you gonna be? Let me know in the comments who you choose.
Who ya gonna be?
Each character has unique skills so I advise that you should play each one to find out what you prefer. Personally, I tend to prefer the Mercenary or Thug! Each of the environments is extremely interesting with wicked mechanics and beautiful visuals, helping to create a wonderful Victorian England theme, etc.
Co-op is enabled whether you play solo or with friends and is a treat. I love having a computer-controlled player alongside you and that extra firepower comes in handy. That helps, especially in the later levels, and is implemented well without ever taking over. However, it's embarrassing when he grabs the coins so quickly!! Argh, this is one of those games that demands practice before you can even think about beating it!
Co-op is enabled whether you play solo or with friends and is a treat. I love having a computer-controlled player alongside you and that extra firepower comes in handy. That helps, especially in the later levels, and is implemented well without ever taking over. However, it's embarrassing when he grabs the coins so quickly!! Argh, this is one of those games that demands practice before you can even think about beating it!
Hey, let's take another break for a couple of screenshots...
The first level is brilliant and works well with the computer-controlled guy.
Level two increases the difficulty but it's still damn good fun!
Bitmap aesthetics!
The graphics are literally outstanding. From start to end, beautiful artwork, detailed sprites, and gorgeous landscapes. I love each of the environments which have all been enhanced for the lovely Atari STe by using the hardware scrolling and extra colours. One of the best-looking games on the Atari ST/e. Period!!
All audio is cool - the chip music will stay playing in your head all day and the sound effects do their job well. However, I must admit to being a little disappointed that this talented bunch failed to use the DMA audio for sampled sound effects. They're already utilising the STe so why not use the DMA for samples?
All audio is cool - the chip music will stay playing in your head all day and the sound effects do their job well. However, I must admit to being a little disappointed that this talented bunch failed to use the DMA audio for sampled sound effects. They're already utilising the STe so why not use the DMA for samples?
So, it looks and sounds great especially when played on the Atari STe. Agree or disagree? Let me know...
I struggled with the third level or rather my old man reactions did!
...and again for the frantic fourth. So tough!!
The CryptO'pinion?
I have always ranked the Bitmap Brothers as one of the best 16-bit developers. The freakish charm of Chaos Engine certainly helps to prove that. I cannot say whether it's better than Gauntlet because it's similar but, different. It's marmite and I think people will find themselves split over these two crackers?
My only gripe is the difficulty on later levels which I fear is over the top. This means I need to cheat, which isn't good if you think about it. However, there is a passcode system which is a fantastic feature to have.
This is a remarkable and addictive shooter stuffed full of action. Glad I bought this - I love it!!
LEVEL CODES
World Two = T6MV6J4LGLCZ (Thug + Mercenary)
World Two = 73VBPXY1PZV1 (Brigand + Navvie)
World Two = QLVKM4YKJQVS (my own code!)
World Three = 4WQZTTRG61MZ (Navvie + Gentleman)
World Three = 2#YNLN7SR94W (Navvie + Brigand)
World Three = JSP99G416LY2 (I've no idea where I found this!)
World Four = PK2R9J6G5W4K (Navvie + Gentleman)
World Four = C8737KFPBCDB (Navvie + Preacher)
Bitmap Bros have a cool website with maps, guides and more.
Let's Play has a great page with loads of info.
I love this game so much that I went "out" and bought the Apple Mac version.
