Another GEM lurking within the ST's library!
This is a typical platformer with many pitfalls and even the odd puzzle to solve using special keys and teleporters. This journey will eventually lead to a battle with that deranged-looking Bolda. During a rather crude end-of-level boss fight. Hey, remember this wasn't commercial - so keep an open mind and forget comparing it until you've played it.
Think less Magic Boy or Rainbow Islands when you gander at my screenshot...
There are many baddies but watch out for the little green alien thing - I hate those!
It's time to be a 2D hero again!
Any platformer needs responsive controls that blend well with the mechanics of the game. The joystick controls are perfect and I love how agile Kevin's movements are. This is a typical platformer but there are a few neat touches that I love: keep this Krazy Kid busy otherwise, he complains that he's bored using a speech bubble. Not new but a fun characteristic.
Actually, that bubble is also used to indicate whenever Kev's hurt. Along with any items/power-ups he has collected. Floor panels are randomly placed and stepping on one will reward you with extra points or a smart bomb that kills everything on-screen. However, this is totally random and may cause a rockslide, alert the baddies to your location or reverse the controls. Are you ready to take a chance? I know right, it's something different whilst being familiar.
Lots of bonuses are scattered throughout and offer a variety of features:
- QuintStar contains the value of five individual stars.
- Aurora Of Invincibility provides temporary invulnerability from everything but spikes.
- Hero Head ... well, don't get too excited because it's a 1UP!!
- Power Heart boosts Kevin's health.
- Sands Of Time adds to the ever-decreasing time limit.
- Oh, and Kevin's also partial to playing arcade games, if you happen to find one.
Right then, it's time for another screenshot! This piccy features Katherine plus the mean and nasty Bolda...
Shoot Bolda in the face to save your girlfriend from this fiend!
Aesthetics
A platformer needs to have a clear and concise design. One that not only looks nice but isn't too visually obtrusive so the enemies are clearly visible, objects aren't easily missed, and you don't want to accidentally bump into something deadly. Well, Kev's World might not look as good as Rick Dangerous but its design is superb and eye-catching.
A platformer needs to have a clear and concise design. One that not only looks nice but isn't too visually obtrusive so the enemies are clearly visible, objects aren't easily missed, and you don't want to accidentally bump into something deadly. Well, Kev's World might not look as good as Rick Dangerous but its design is superb and eye-catching.
The sprites look ace and very comical. Some of the nasties are cute and it's obvious Ben spent most of his time getting these just right. Sadly, no Atari STe hardware is being utilised so STOS is struggling somewhat.
The audio is also excellent with tons of samples used throughout the game. However, like the visuals, Kev's World isn't using the Atari STe's DMA hardware. This means the effects are rough and the playback feels like it's pushing STOS to its limits. Don't get me wrong, I love the effects but I think the YM chip would have been a better option.
Games like this prove why the Atari ST has/had a fantastic PD scene. Here's the final screenshot...
Argh, that damn Bolda. My girlfriend is (slowly) whisked off once again!!
The CryptO'pinion?
What I love about Kev's World is its traditional oldskool gameplay which is just downright excellent and enjoyable. The joystick controls are superb and responsive plus I liked the gameplay mechanics with the additional bonuses, smart bombs, and other surprises. These help make the game stand out from most other PD/Shareware platformers available on the ST.
I have enjoyed playing this two-level demo and is definitely something I would have bought in the mid-90s. What a cool platformer and I hope Ben finds the full-registered game someday soon. We need to play that!!
Completed!! I made 12th place and even beat Metallica. Can you beat me?
