Berzerk

Comparison Time!

I figured an expansion to AtariCrypt was in order, as there are many other great Atari games to play. We already have sections for the Atari STe and Falcon030, so why not the consoles? The Jaguar has many superb titles, but I admit that I am a noob, which means I'm excited to see what's out there in Atari console land.

So, we're beginning with Berzerk for two consoles and the AtariST...

- A T A R I  2 6 0 0 -

This looks/sounds a lot better than I first imagined, albeit without speech. The control mechanics are spot-on with spritely movements that almost made me forget about the Chicken's limited one-shot mechanic. However, I didn't see Otto during the recording, so perhaps I did something wrong? But the fat man did show up in other games, and he can even be shot. What? Overall, a limited version but without limited gameplay.

  

- A T A R I  5 2 0 0 -

Things feel familiar from the get-go, possibly because it's an authentic conversion and also reminded me of the ST game - both visually and with that funky digitised speech. I enjoyed it, but the speed feels a little slow, and it's extremely difficult. The robots are way beyond accurate - more like ruthless assassins. They're quick, so expect no mercy. I fear my old-man reactions found this very hard. Chicken, fight like a robot...

  





- A T A R I  S T -

The ST/Falcon game was developed by an ST legend who needs no introduction. Those robots might be a little too eager to smash into the walls, but I fear this is one of the best conversions. Bold statement - but it has well-balanced gameplay, is authentic, and incredibly playable. Check out our feature from last year.