Rana Rama

We. Are. A. Frog. Really?

Most action games have you playing as something cool, like a wizard, a warrior or perhaps even a Hollywood hero with a deadly automated weapon that never runs out of ammo. Well, not so with Ranarama. You're a novice magician called Mervyn who has accidentally turned himself into a frog? That's right, you're a frog!

Wizards have invaded and brought a horde of monsters who killed everyone, although luckily, they ignored this unassuming frog. So it's time for you to leggit and deal a hefty dose of revenge on them! Played through an overhead view, you crawl through a dungeon, battling the minion slaves of the powerful wizards.

Wanna see who you are up against? Check out these minions of evil...

   

Make the time to check out your foe and find out who you're battling against.


   
Not only that, but a chance to view the gorgeous artwork!!

An amphibian gauntlet?

First impressions are of an action-packed Gauntlet clone; although it looks aesthetically similar, it's different. Beginning in the upper area of this 8-level dungeon, you must kill the baddies and defeat the wizards. Interestingly, only the places explored are visible, and the baddies themselves are only seen when you’re in the same room. This makes entering new rooms an anxious moment - who knows what lurks!

Monsters come in various scary shapes and sizes, starting with the humble Dwarf (I love those) and leading up to the mighty Gargoyles. All can be killed with increasing efforts, and wizards need to be defeated in a Countdown-style sub-game that has you rearranging letters to form the word "Ranarama". It's not easy, and later wizards are very tricky, but once won, he dies and leaves behind his rune goodies.

Magic plays its part in Ranarama, and Mervyn has four categories at his disposal: offensive, defensive, effect and other powers. All movement and monster hits will reduce energy; fear not, because you can cast a spell or collect the energy cells, which are frequently available. Finally, use the floor-based glyphs to activate special features like a map, status, and casting spells. Quite confusing at first, but don't give up!

Check out this screenshot. Looks a little like Gauntlet, but... it's... not...

As you can see, the rooms are displayed only when they have been explored.

Aesthetics

The graphics are superb, with fine attention to detail and great use of colour, and the sprites are beautiful. I love how each screen isn't instantly viewable in full - not until you've actually explored that region. This is a great idea, and it makes the journey far more interesting because you never know what's around the corner.

The in-game Sound effects are extremely good, using a style that shows just what the ST's Yamaha chip is capable of. All chip music is by Dave J. Rogers, of Exolon and Zynaps fame, so absolutely superb. Basically, the audio is wonderful and certainly proves that chip music will live on forever. Gorgeous sounds.

Ranarama was one of the first Atari ST games with speech (that I owned).

Thus I adore the fuzzy girl speaking. It's historically humourous but also very epic!!

I love the red eyes of Mr Froggy, and each character has fascinating attention to detail.

The CryptO'pinion?

If you expected a run-of-the-mill Gauntlet clone, then you will be happy, as Ranarama is different. It offers a long-term mix of arcade action with hints of role-playing whilst venturing through the cunning levels. It's difficult but very rewarding, so expect many late nights - if you're brave enough to accept the challenge?

An utterly engrossing Atari ST game, once again by legends Hewson. Absolutely fantastic, in every respect.

The best download from 8BitChip (hard drive)

Atari Legend should be better for floppy dudes!

ASCII art

Unreversable demo (2013) by M.E.C for Atari ST

Credits : bob_er (code) | Dhor (music) | gwEm (code/music)

I came across this rather uniquely mesmerising demo the other night on Demozoo and just had to record it. Unreversable is an ASCII art sensation accompanied by funk and dunk chip music for an outstanding experience. Perhaps most amazing is that it's only 64kb, quite incredible... How do they do it?

Anyhow, I hope you enjoy this outstanding demo as much as I did.

Unreversable is by a group of talented 8Bit'ers called Masters Of Electric City.

 (creators of Unbeatable - a monochrome Atari ST demo!!)

Gauntlet

Dandy!

Gauntlet is an arcade masterpiece with a design that is simple yet genius. It's a combination of a dungeon crawler with an extreme kill-em-all, and this results in an unstoppable solo/multiplayer experience. Yep, 1-4 people can hack & slash through tons of hellish underground levels! Absolutely gaming heaven.

We can play as one of four groovy characters: a Warrior, an Elf, a Wizard, or a Valkyrie. Each has its own characteristics for strength and battling the nasties. I'm always the Warrior because he's bound to be the Samson of the group, and thankfully, there is no Delilah. Each needs to be fed, so don't do anything daft like shooting food, as that affects your health lol. Come on, you know how to play this classic!

Let's slap a pause on the reading for an animated GIF of Gauntlet...

A timeless arcade classic. Simple as that, really.

Four heroes against millions of monsters?

The monsters are among the most varied I have seen, which adds so much to the dungeon's feel. We have ghosts, demons, grunts, lobbers (I hate those!), and more. They have their own attributes and are usually born from a Generator - so destroy those first to cease the onslaught of hatred against you.

The objective is simple: kill the monsters and escape. We're trapped in a 100-level creepy dungeon, and everything lurking here wants to eat you. So it's up to you (and any potential co-op players) to kill everything and find the exit in order to escape the hellish catacombs. Keys are scattered everywhere to access restricted areas. You shall also note the booty conveniently left for you and collect it for extra points.

Finally, Death is here. Yep, literally Death himself, and he is almost impossible to kill, so try to avoid him if possible. This brings me nicely to the magical potions you can discover scattered about most levels. By collecting these, your chance of survival is greatly improved and will certainly help during an encounter with Death. Hint: do not assume he is a single individual making a single appearance, so be wise with your potions.

Before we get to the aesthetics, let's see a beautiful image from the game...

Whether demons or ghosts are attacking, this game is always freakishly GREAT fun!!!

Aesthetics?

Graphically, this has authentically crafted levels that look excellent. The monster sprites are just as good and must count as one of the best-looking arcade conversions for the Atari ST. However, there's a price to pay for all that glam, and it comes at the cost of framerate. This will drop when dozens of monsters are on-screen at once. Of course, faster computers like my 16MHz Mega STe (and emulators) have no such issues.

I love the audio, from the moment we hear the Da-Da-Da-Daaa begin playing. I'm hooked. This is superb and of high quality, further enhanced by in-game sampled effects. Oh, I absolutely love Gauntlet!!

Right then, one final screenshot, otherwise I'll only spoil you...

Argh, they're attacking from all corners of the dungeon!! Heeeeeelp!!

The CryptO'pinion?

There are two conclusions to draw from this 1986 release: If you're using an upgraded ST or have something like a Mega STe, TT, etc, then you're gonna love this game. However, stock STs will suffer a sluggish framerate when the screen is heavily overcrowded. Thankfully, I've just heard that Peter has updated Gauntlet to support the Blitter, which is great news for the Atari STe (that also includes the Mega ST)

Whether you play solo or not, this is an awesome shooter. Gauntlet is one of the best arcade games, and the Atari ST has another winning conversion under its belt. It's pure retro gaming gold. I love it!!

Stop whatever you're doing and download this wonderful game from Klaz' Hideaway (both hard drive & floppy versions). Klaz has implemented support for faster Atari computers and my own Mega STe (16MHz) delivered a far better framerate! This transforms the game completely - it's mind-bogglingly ACE!!

Update: Peter Putnik's version supports the Blitter!!
Download it from his website.

Mad Professor Mariarti

Nutty professor

Professor Mariarti is a platformer in wacky laboratories ranging from a biological lab to space rocket development. However, as a result of a dodgy experiment going mental, everything has come to life and taken over. To make matters worse, they aren't in the best mood and have grown body parts, like eyes and legs.

Hmm, I think we'd better fix this problem and clear out the labs before it drives the Professor potty. Okay, there are four levels to choose from, with a fifth only playable after completing the first four. As if!

Wanna see a couple of near-GEM green screenshots? Of course, you do...

A platformer with brains

I’ve been playing the Computer Lab level, and it’s full of strange creatures, hazards to avoid, and puzzles to solve. Don't worry, these puzzles aren't exactly mind-blowing and are often as simple as flicking a switch. However, some puzzles require a little more thought - take a look at the massive pressure chamber, which is lethal without first wearing a diver's helmet. I love cunning puzzles like that.

The baddies are a most interesting bunch and very humorous, but the slightest contact will zap your energy. It seems nothing you do will permanently kill them. You can use your trusty collection of greasy spanners, and they’ll vanish, but seconds later, they’re back for more. Argh, they are evil and relentless!!

This is a good thing and helps keep things interesting without any empty or boring screens. The weapons can be upgraded by using terminals, but that costs money, so don't forget to collect any coins scattered throughout. Expect nothing less than a challenge that requires time and effort to get the best from it.

Let's pause for more screenshots. Hey, it looks like I'm in the loony bin...

The CryptO'pinion?

Mad Professor Mariarti is a challenging and addictive platformer bursting with personality. While some puzzles are a bit vague and obscure, you’ll soon grasp the mechanics. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a platformer that demands a bit more from the old grey matter. However, be prepared for a significant time investment to fully appreciate it. I wouldn’t usually play a game like this, but I really enjoyed Professor Mariarti.

8BitChip has the download (floppy & HDD)

Update: Stickhead has a great video to watch!

Chuckie Egg II

My favourite Speccy game!

After playing the Atari ST version of Jet Set Willy, I remembered that we had Chuckie Egg II by Lothlorien. This made me happy because I love the original, and I even spent hundreds (thousands?!) of hours exploring and mapping its immensely wacky world. It was a uniquely fascinating and surreal place to explore.

Let's cut to the chase, the Atari ST conversion is awful. It looks/sounds better, but the gameplay is completely ruined - it doesn't feel anything like the original whatsoever. In fact, the controls are diabolical, so guiding Harry around is nigh on impossible. He walks far too fast, and they have altered the basic jumping mechanics. You know, I expected some differences, but this is a joke beyond anything I imagined.

This game is a complete disaster! It’s a terrible port of a brilliant ZX Spectrum platformer. Terrible is the word, because it's shocking to think they thought this was fit for release. I hate saying this because it’s a port of my favourite 8-bit platformer!! Perhaps it's hard to tell, but, yes, I'm disgusted by this game. 😡

Personally, this is the worst game ever released for the Atari ST. #gutted

It's not recommended, but if you're stupid and wanna play this, then the floppies can be found at Atari Legend. A hard-drive-installable game is at 8BitChip. Surely, you're not going to bother?

Jet Set Willy

Willy is back!

Who still plays the Willy platformers on their computer? Indeed, they are the most respected series of 8-bit platformers ever to grace a CRT screen. Sadly, the Atari ST missed that party as people expected more from their 16-bit computer by the late 80s. A fact that saddens me somewhat, as we missed out on a classic.

Software Projects never released this because they felt people's expectations had changed since 1984. I see their point, I really do. However, it's a massive shame because it's timeless. I will always love this platformer.

So, wait a moment!! Am I saying that the game was programmed, but never released? Well, yes. The Atari ST version was finished but ultimately forgotten. Until now! The screenshots you can see are of the Atari ST game, a replica of the original. Yep, it fully mimics the same gameplay style without unnecessary bloatware "improvements". It plays, looks, sounds, and feels exactly as you remember it from 1984.

Wait, are you disappointed how the Atari ST game looks? Perhaps you expected 16-bit aesthetics with more detail & colour?? Stop! Slap yourself!! Did you forget about Chuckie Egg II ???

Matthew Smith had nothing to do with this release, as it was coded for the Atari ST by Carl Whitwell and Paul Taylor. Best of all, this was during their university years. Wow, take 5 mins to think about that fact for a moment... Can you imagine programming this game, possibly as their coursework? Incredible!

I should go and help Willy clean up his messy mansion. Maria is quite angry, so wish me luck...

• Download JetSet Willy from my own Dropbox file server.
• AtariMania has an interesting piece of text to read on its website.
• Here is a pretty darn cool map of the entire Willy Mansion. Ahh, the memories!!
• What? Do you want Manic Miner as well? Then click that link ASAP!!!

I thought this room would be tough, but it's easier than it looks.

One of the coolest screens this (for me). I don't know why, but I love it.

I remember reaching this screen on my Speccy as a kid - waiting for the hoax!

I tried the code... but it didn't appear to work. I wonder if the hidden gem is still here?

The Chaos Engine

Another cheap ripoff

Not too dissimilar to Gauntlet, The Chaos Engine, by the Bitmap Bros, was released in 1993. It's a top-down arcade shooter where you choose from a selection of characters before running around levels with one purpose: killing baddies! Okay, there is a [minor] puzzle element, but this is about reaping death!!

Set in a twisted steampunk version of Victorian England, The Chaos Engine tells the story of a baron whose experimental machine (designed to harness chaos energy) spirals out of control. Of course, it does. It mutated both the land and its inhabitants into something monstrous. Enter the heroes: a band of hardened mercenaries is assembled to venture into the wilderness, battle through wave after wave of grotesque creatures, and destroy the machine. You will be one of six mercenaries, each with their own skill set.

Take a read and make sure you choose wisely...

 

 

 
So who are you gonna be? Let me know in the comments who you choose.

Who ya gonna be?

Each character has unique skills, so I advise that you play each one to find out what you prefer. Personally, I tend to prefer the Mercenary or Thug, but here's the list of all six badass dudes...

• The Mercenary is a good, dependable fighter with strong weapon power and overall toughness. He is less refined in technical ability than some others. His straightforward offensive capabilities make him an effective and dependable choice. A great option to run & gun!
• The Brigand is a nimble and technically gifted character, often suited to players who prefer careful positioning and tactical movement. I feel he is a character for the gifted game! He might feel underpowered in direct firefights, but he is agile and rewards determination.
• The Gentleman is a well-balanced all-rounder and one of the easiest characters for new players. I think he has good speed, firepower and decent resilience. Although he lacks the specialist traits of some of the other mercenaries. Why not start your first game with this guy?
• The Navvie is the brute-force option! A massive guy, packing tremendous physical strength. He can absorb punishment and dish out serious damage, but at the expense of speed. His sluggish movement makes avoiding enemy fire and navigating hectic situations more difficult.
• The Thug is fast, aggressive and built for direct confrontation, with strong mobility and attack power. His main weakness is lower resilience, meaning careless play can get him overwhelmed quickly if trapped. Kinda like the Navvie in many ways.
• The Preacher is the most unusual and often challenging choice. He is useful for interacting with terminals and is an efficient killer, but his weaker combat performance means he demands a skilled player. Even with God on his side, he's hard to recommend.

Each environment is extremely interesting, with wicked mechanics and beautiful visuals, helping create a wonderful Victorian England theme. Movement and positioning are crucial, as simply charging forward will quickly get you overwhelmed by the relentless waves of enemies. Along the way, fallen enemies drop cash, which can be collected and spent between levels on upgrades: speed, weapon power, health and intelligence. This allows you to strengthen your character for the increasingly brutal stages ahead.

Co-op is enabled whether you play solo or not - and is a treat. I love having a computer-controlled player alongside you, and that extra firepower comes in handy. Especially in the later levels, it is implemented well without ever taking over. However, it's embarrassing when he grabs the coins so quickly!! Argh, this is one of those games that demands practice before you can even think about beating it!

Hey, let's take another break for a couple of screenshots...

The first level is brilliant and works well with the computer-controlled guy.



Level two increases the difficulty, but it's still damn good fun!

Bitmap aesthetics!

The graphics are literally outstanding. From start to end, beautiful artwork, detailed sprites, and gorgeous landscapes. I love each of the environments, which have all been enhanced for the lovely Atari STe by using the hardware scrolling and extra colours. One of the best-looking games on the Atari ST/e. Period!!

All audio is cool - the chip music will stay playing in your head all day, and the sound effects do their job well. However, I must admit to being a little disappointed that this talented bunch failed to use the DMA audio for sampled sound effects. They're already utilising the STe, so why not use the DMA for samples?

So, it looks and sounds great, especially on the Atari STe. Agree or disagree? Let me know...

I struggled with the third level, or rather, my old man reactions did!



...and again for the frantic fourth. So tough!!

The CryptO'pinion?

I’ve always ranked the Bitmap Brothers among the finest developers of the 16-bit era, and this game helps to prove that. It's a surreal steampunk world with slick presentation, and an addictive blend of action and strategy makes it far more than a mere Gauntlet clone. Comparisons are going to happen, but while both look similar, The Chaos Engine has its own identity, atmosphere, characters, and great action.

My only gripe is the difficulty on later levels, which I fear is over the top and pushes even the most skilled players to cheat. Thankfully, the passcode system softens that disappointment somewhat.

This is a remarkable and addictive shooter stuffed full of action. Glad I bought this - I love it!!

8BitChip and D-Bug have created superb hard drive installable games!!

Chaos Engine floppy disks: Adrenalin #37A  #37B disks.

LEVEL CODES

World Two = T6MV6J4LGLCZ (Thug + Mercenary)

World Two = 73VBPXY1PZV1 (Brigand + Navvie)

World Two = QLVKM4YKJQVS (my own code!)

World Three = 4WQZTTRG61MZ (Navvie + Gentleman)

World Three = 2#YNLN7SR94W (Navvie + Brigand)

World Three = JSP99G416LY2 (I've no idea where I found this!)

World Four = PK2R9J6G5W4K (Navvie + Gentleman)

World Four = C8737KFPBCDB (Navvie + Preacher)

ST Format has a guide and a walk-through solution (issues: #51 #52 #53 #54)

Bitmap Bros have a cool website with maps, guides, and more.

Let's Play has a great page with loads of info.