We are a wizard, again!
Fifi can only be rescued from the dark fortress by collecting ten magic eyes scattered across the levels. It's the usual quest through lands filled with monsters and demonic guardians. Will you help Wizard Willy?
Come on, I know you will so let's check out the first screenshot from the game...
The graphics are great but sometimes it feels cluttered with umm too much going on?
The graphics are great but sometimes it feels cluttered with umm too much going on?
It all sounds incredibly original, right?
He begins his journey in a forest that leads to the castle where she is imprisoned. This is a great start which introduces us nicely to the gameplay mechanics: our hero can walk, leap, climb trees, shoot fire bolts and even mash up magic spells using a rather large cauldron. Health status is displayed at the top of the screen and will decrease if you happen to touch enemies or a dangerous object. Gold coins can be collected (after a kill) and these are used as currency inside a cauldron that can mix magical power-ups, ammo, or health.
Collecting the magic eyes allows us to battle the first guarding boss - a wasp-like critter who isn't exactly intelligent and therefore an easy kill. This grants us access to the castle via the creepy dungeons but the guardian is a bit of a bonehead (you will see why). This castle takes us deeper into our quest but continues with the same theme, with lots more tricks and traps to fool you. I really am enjoying this journey!
This ain't no rushed port, the quest is massive so let's celebrate with another screenshot...
The first boss is a giant wasp who is a bit dumb and quite easy to kill. I like bosses like that!
Aesthetics
Spellfire has stunning visuals and I love the contrast between lush nature and medieval environments. Sadly, it can feel "busy" and I dreamt of a background without so much clutter. However, the game is colourful using a gradient sky. I liked the erupting volcanos and awesome skeletons when raised from the dead. Everything you see is complemented by smooth scrolling that never lags and keeps up with the pace.
The audio is impressive and can be set to chip music or effects. Whatever you decide, you will love it.
Isn't it great when something looks & sounds as good as it plays! Screenshot time...
Watch out for tricks that will catch you out which makes for great replay value.
Watch out for tricks that will catch you out which makes for great replay value.
The CryptO'pinion?
I've enjoyed Spellfire The Sorcerer, it reminded me of a cross between Stormlord and Chronicles of Omega. It's easy to get into, so instantly entertaining with good levels, excellent monsters and power-ups that work nicely. However, I did feel that the screens were a little too (visually) cluttered albeit very, very pretty.
I'm grateful this isn't a lazy Amiga port and plays every bit as good as it looks. Code Masters released what I can only describe as a hidden gem. Challenging but stick with it and you have a fantastic platformer!
I'm grateful this isn't a lazy Amiga port and plays every bit as good as it looks. Code Masters released what I can only describe as a hidden gem. Challenging but stick with it and you have a fantastic platformer!
