Paint by Wheels
CarVup is a scrolling driving/platformer released in 1990 by Core Designs. We play the part of a cheerful car that appears to love painting the road by simply driving. Yes, it's a fairly familiar idea, but one that will certainly appeal to the more mature gamer (just like me!) who remembers Painter. #AncientGamer
Each screen has many platforms in need of a new coat of paint, and this easy task soon becomes tricky because of the numerous baddies that populate the playing field. Don't think about shooting your way through because there are no weapons (without collecting optional power-ups), so baddies must be avoided.
This will be troublesome as your car has no brakes and loves driving constantly in a kamikaze fashion! So these unreal mechanics force you to constantly flip direction to find an alternative route whilst frantically searching for that last tile that needs a dollop of paint. It's fun, it's frantic, it's pointless - it's Painter!
So, it's time for the first screenshot, which contains a bunch of handy information...
Follow the instructions and learn the different jumps; otherwise, it's Game Over, buddy boy.
Input & Output
This is a game that would sink like a lead balloon if it had anything less than perfect controls. So I'm grateful they are indeed responsive and well thought out. Many platforms are difficult to reach, so precise timing is required, which becomes even more challenging when the enemy is blocking your path. CarVup always requires quick reactions to avoid losing a life because you never know what might appear.
Each level looks superb with lots of colours and a cartoony design. Personally, I think Core did a great job throughout with this appearance, and its smooth scrolling and cute sprites. The sound effects are nice and do their expected job well, but it's the chiptunes, which are all foot-tappingly superb. (key 'M' to toggle).
It's time for another screenshot, and this one is from the game, you will be happy to know...
Always be on the lookout for dangerous items, strange obstacles, or even dodgy enemies!
The CryptO'pinion?
CarVup may not appeal to everyone, especially those old enough to remember how boring Painter was! However, I think they've taken that old format and jazzed it up nicely. As an ancient gamer, I found myself enjoying its "just one more go" appeal. And that's about it, a fun spin on Painter. I really enjoyed playing CarVup!
The One magazine released a demo containing levels NOT in the commercial release!
Note: If you press the 'Z' key during gameplay, it stops the car!
Enter these codes into the high-score table :
infinite lives - R.J.TOONE
infinite bumpers - BUMPER
9 lives - PUSSYCAT
faster turn speed - WOOAARRGGHH
level skip - WHOOPSIE
extra points - ARNIECAR
more points - BARMY CAR
