When the demoscene and game industry join forces!
Five dreaded levels are about to be flooded - our adventure begins in a dingy castle before heading outside to hop his way through the trees and then up into the clouds. As each level begins, the waters begin to rise just as in games like Flood, Goin' Down With The Captain or Killing Game Show. So, be quick and get moving!!
Before any more waffling from me, let's take a look at the first level...
Level one is pretty cool but it also introduces you to the cruel mechanics and an overpriced shop!
Level one is pretty cool but it also introduces you to the cruel mechanics and an overpriced shop!
Prepare thyself!
...for a world of hurt! This game features cruel, wicked environments, many traps, and frustrating jumps. We must also contend with moving platforms, acid droplets, spikes, disappearing ledges and much more. Not only all that, but the local wildlife is never friendly and will zap your energy with a single touch.
Thankfully, there's nothing better than arming yourself with a weapon. It's natural to see a kid carrying a pistol in any 16-bit world! Best of all, this can be upgraded (along with health and more). Yep, you heard me, there are actually shops on the way up to Heaven. Who would have thought that? Well, brace yourself because I'm told there are also hidden side games and annoying puzzles (Grr!!). Something for everyone.
Thankfully, there's nothing better than arming yourself with a weapon. It's natural to see a kid carrying a pistol in any 16-bit world! Best of all, this can be upgraded (along with health and more). Yep, you heard me, there are actually shops on the way up to Heaven. Who would have thought that? Well, brace yourself because I'm told there are also hidden side games and annoying puzzles (Grr!!). Something for everyone.
Want more screenshots? Of course, you do! So here is a couple from the second and third level...
I liked level 2 the most which also reminded me of Elf but I found level 3 a killer and really annoying!!
I liked level 2 the most which also reminded me of Elf but I found level 3 a killer and really annoying!!
Platforming never looked so good!
The visuals are by Bram Leyten, aka Sense of Hotline, and are stunning with incredible attention to detail for both the environment and cute sprites. This game looks incredible! Animations that are nice but Bud walks like he's rushing to the toilet - gotta laugh at his zippy legs!! Not only do these graphics knock you for six but they slide down your screen at a graceful 50fps using sync-scrolling. Thank you #demoscene!!
This method screws up my VGA monitor (real ST hardware) each time it attempts to scroll. It works dandy using a standard CRT monitor/TV. So, I guess it must be a VGA issue with my current setup?
Audio has not been forgotten and if you remember Monster Business' outstanding tunes then you're in for a treat. Laurens Tummers, aka Lotus, has done it again to provide stunning examples of timeless chip music. In fact, I would say No Buddies Land has some of the best tunes I've heard in any game. Stunning results.
Both levels 4 and 5 feature disappearing platforms which I really, really, REALLY hated!!
The CryptO'pinion?
Technically, a masterpiece that proves what the Atari ST is capable of when in the hands of talented people. However, No Buddies Land isn't perfect. The controls are great but jumping diagonally can be awkward unless Bud is currently walking (YMMV). Also, knowing which ledges to hop onto isn't always obvious when some blend into the background scenery. Ultimately, with a little tweaking, everything would have been perfect.
Having said that, this is a belting platformer and I've really relished playing it. It's nothing like I first expected and is actually enjoyable, unlike that disappointing platformer by TCB (sigh). The range of levels is extraordinary with each featuring different environments that are as challenging as they are gorgeous.
A belting game, with a few niggles, but otherwise thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.
