Horror Zombies From The Crypt

Bring out your dead!

I've always been fascinated with Astral's haunted house platformer from all the way back in 1990. It's like a 16-bit B-Movie in its own right - full of charm with a comical edge hidden amongst the horrors. Also, no haunting would be the same without lots of frightful creatures, which it has. There is everything from witches, zombies, werewolves, vampires, ghosts, and even the odd, weird statue that sticks out its tongue at you.

Each level has a particular task, which is described to us during a mini-intro at the start of the stage. The objective is to hunt down and collect all the skulls and lay their souls to rest. However, that won't be easy because this is one tricky platformer using a maze of creepy screens that often contain infuriating traps to catch you out. This is no arcade-style platformer, more of a Fire and Brimstone, so keep your composure and wear your patient head, Worzel. And by that, I mean it starts easy but ends up 'challenging'!

I've adored 'horror' theme games since playing Chiller, so let's check out the first scary screenshot...

The artwork is beautifully creepy, and I love the attention to detail - look at those eyes!!

Enter the haunted house!

The first level introduces us nicely to the freaky horror with some puzzle-solving, along with a variety of classic baddies: zombies, headless ghosts, and a Morticia Addams lookalike. The puzzles are quite easy and shouldn't tax the grey matter too much: move a table to reach an item, find keys to unlock doors, and wear cute booties to creep past something scary. Things heat up on the next level with tougher monsters and trickier-level designs.

Level passes Wolfman, Hammer, Lugosi, Nosferatu & Garlic.

Every character is different and, I must admit to liking the wolfmen - but I hate the old hunchbacked witches who will drop rocks with surprising accuracy! Hint: look for hidden rooms leading to secret objects, different keys, and more. Every level has a password, so there is no need to restart from the beginning each time, which is excellent (I wish more games would have this support. Yes, I'm talking to you, Navy Seals!).

This game is tough and no pushover, so expect lots of comical deaths. Like this one right here...

Oh no, a skeleton with a bow!!! Gets me every time...

Aesthetics

The visuals are perfectly apt for the 1950s cinematic theme with smooth scrolling, spooky artwork, and freaky characters. The horror aspect is typically cheesy, and I love it. Everything you see is superbly animated - like when you die and see yourself shudder before violently suffering a Scanners-like headache (no matter the cause). I'm impressed with the palette; each level looks tremendous with super attention to detail.

The audio is nothing short of incredible, with a chippy rendition of Montagues and Capulets (I'm sure I'll be humming that all day long). The sound effects are high-quality samples, with the wolf howls being my favourite. However, I'm disappointed there is nothing for my head-exploding deaths? That's weird!

Sound and vision are almost perfect in every respect! So let's look at an evil witch with her pet wolf...

I hate it when the old witch drops objects on my head!

The CryptO'pinion?

This is one of those games that will eat away your spare hours, but it requires practice and a lot of it. In fact, it's often infuriating on the later levels, just try Family Chapel if you don't believe me. Oh, and Horror Zombies From The [Atari]Crypt is the perfect title for such a cheesy platformer. See what I did there? heh

Yes, I wish it were easier on some screens, but I'll never get bored with killing wolfmen and zombies, but those piercing glares of a vampire are tremendously scary! Overall, this is a great platformer with good puzzles throughout a landscape of cruel design. Like with Fire & Brimstone, it's tough, but it's excellent.

The HDD download can be found on D-Bug

Floppies can be sourced via Old Games Finder

River Raid for Mega STe

Thank you, Carol Shaw!

I fancied a blast with a favourite ZX Spectrum game - RIVER RAID!! Okay, I know it's lame compared to the Atari 2600/5200 games, but I have happy memories. I figured I should use the Mega STe muscle and boot up the Speccy emulator for some colour-clash action (There was never an official Atari ST version).

Obviously, I cannot record directly off my Mega STe, so I duplicated the setup in Hatari to make this video: a stock 16Mhz Mega STe (TOS 2.06) runs the game well. It's almost at the same speed as a real Speccy. Hey, could my recording fool people into thinking it is real? Until they see the GEM desktop at the end!!

If you wanna emulate more computers on your Atari ST, then check out this section of my website.

Biomechanoid Locomotion

I spent some time last night listening to many incredible tunes from the SNDH Archive. Biomechanoid Locomotion, by Shinobi (aka Marcus Andre Rousseau) was probably my fave of the night so click the green arrow to hear it :-)

Turn up the volume and use these Atari ST programs to play everything from this amazing archive. 🎧

Pole Position

The arcade is within your Atari STe

Pole Position is a classic arcade racer from a time when the computing world was youthful and fresh. I played it on the Atari 2600 at a friend's house, but I mostly played the ZX Spectrum version. The Atari ST has a raft of great driving games, but sadly, it never received an official port of this old favourite. Until now.

Official might be the wrong term to use, but don't get your knickers in a twist. A brand new version has been developed by Jonathan Thomas, who reverse-engineered it from the arcade machine itself. He has also implemented many cool features, using real-time sprite scaling, DMA sounds, and more.

The requirements are 1MB RAM, a joystick, and an appreciation of what is nothing less than a brilliant racer. It's quite surreal to have such an iconic arcade racer on the ST. Upon first booting up, I got a giddy feeling at having a phantom arcade machine in the house. Hey, no need to find any 10-pence coins!

I should break for the first screenshot, and I love it for obvious reasons...

I'm feeling like a kid in a Blackpool arcade, spending all my pocket money!!

Yes, put your money away!

It's not an overstatement to say this is authentic, as it even features the same (ripped) visuals and sonix I fondly remember. Now, if you're looking at the screenshots and wondering why the gaming display is narrow, then blame Namco because it's all down to the arcade's vertical monitor. The Atari STe was meant for a different display, so it isn't the same ratio. It merely attempts to replicate the slim ratio.

Playing is tough, and initially, I was all over the road. Slipping and sliding into cars or skidding off into roadside objects. In fact, it felt like I was purposely trying to hit everything - and doing a great job of it!! Ideally, I need a wheel, but stick with it, put aside half an hour to master the controls. The corners are a killer!

I don't think we need a boring screenshot? So how about an animation instead? Here ya go...

The actual framerate is twice as good as you can see here in my capture.

The gory details

The latest release candidate has major improvements and delivers near arcade-busting gameplay:

• 60fps framerate to bring the speed and difficulty correctly in line with the arcade machine. Can you keep up with that?
• You can thank the Blitter Chip for whizzing the graphics so fast and furious. If only more games had used this chip!
• Sprite scaling is utilised for ultra-smooth results. Check out that road zooming up close, so impressive.
• Even good 'ol Mount Fuji is displayed in all its glory!
• The sky gradient is back, along with numerous glitches fixed, and it looks very nice using a good flow pattern.
• The sound effects are taken from the arcade game using the DMA coprocessor. Doesn't get any better than that - gorgeous!
• Code compiled with GCC 7.1 for a significant performance increase. Sounds good to me, but what would I know about programming!
• Many new optimisations, mainly around text rendering for authenticity.
• Emulation is fine, but it's BEST played using a real Atari. By far.

If only those tyres would look like they're rotating (come on, Jon) :-)

The CryptO'pinion?

It's impressive to think that here we are in 2017 with a version of Pole Position that's been reverse-engineered from the arcade machine. Everything looks, sounds, and feels like we remember, with only a couple of missing features: the animated tyres are nothing more than a bit of a colour wobble (needs fixing)

Pole Position is very addictive, a cracking arcade port making use of the Atari STe hardware: I love its framerate, audio, and authenticity. Possibly one of the toughest racers, but it certainly keeps dragging you back for more - kicking and screaming!! Pole Position is nothing less than a spectacular arcade racer.

What are you waiting for? Come on and play this outstanding game!! (Download from AtariMania).

Space Monsters

Don't panic!

Space Monsters was developed by Darren Ithell for Goodman PDL, and I'm sure you've already guessed it's a conversion of the arcade classic, Space Panic. I'm often a little dubious of 16-bit conversions for old arcade or 8-bit classics because, quite often, they don't work or it feels like something is missing. So I tightly crossed my fingers and booted it up.

Initial impressions are great, the game looks good with each screen having the expected platforms and ladders with horrid nasties roaming. It's instant death if you bump into one, so Spaceman has discovered the best way to kill these critters is to dig a trap. Once they've foolishly got themselves stuck (for a few seconds), he has the opportunity to whack 'em with his spade for a splattery death. Spaceman is a truly gruesome fella, but whatever works, right?

Let's check out the different types of nasties that you'll encounter. . .

Oh, the nasties in this game are so... well... nasty!! The Boss is tough, but Don is a killer!!

No matter how much I try, I still panic!!

Yup, there are only three types of monsters, but that doesn't mean their numbers are limited or boring. The first is a "Creature" and is pretty gullible and easy to avoid or kill. However, the other two aren't so dumb and possess a freakishly cunning AI. Next is "Boss", who is tough, and then "Don", well, he's the real boss. Try not to anger them!!

Also, it takes a greater falling distance to kill the stronger nasties, but you are rewarded with lots of extra points. However, if you fail to smash in their faces with a spade, then they angrily climb out looking for blood!! Finally, watch out for that time limit. Don't dawdle and get these beasts killed before your oxygen runs out - I'm never a fan of timers!

Right, let's check out an in-game screenshot...

Right, we've got him just where we want him. Quick, club the sucker!!

Input & Output?

The controls are superb!! This is a relief, as I've played a few similar games, which required pixel-perfect alignment with the ladder before you're allowed to climb it. That's always a pain, which I'm happy to say doesn't exist here. Digging holes and caving in the heads of aliens is easy and so much fun. My only quibble is not being able to fall down a hole; otherwise, the authenticity for both style and gameplay has been perfectly captured, and I love that.

Visually, well, it's Space Panic, so everything you expect it to be with a clean-cut design and cutesy sprites. It won't win any awards, and nor should it, but who cares? The audio is far better with nice sampled sound effects throughout - that ROAR as a monster climbs out of a hole will scare you to death!! I just miss the lacking background chiptune.

Well, you guessed it! Yes, it's time for another screenshot, so keep on scrolling...

'Creature' is a cute but gullible goon, and temporarily falling into a hole will make him angry!!

The CryptO'pinion?

Space Monsters is fantastic and perfectly captures that oldskool vibe in both look and style. The gameplay itself gradually increases for that expected stressful experience, and trying to tactically dig the right holes whilst worrying about what could creep up on you is truly a PANIC. Yep, this is literally one of the best conversions I have played.

Grab the DOWNLOAD right now!

Sabre Team

I always wanted to be Lewis Collins!

Sabre Team was released in 1992 by Krisalis by Richard Teather (I think this was his only AtariST game?). This is a turn-based war zone fuelled by hardcore strategy. Yep, straight to the point there, as this isn't an arcade runaround shooter, it's tactical turn-based. Still interested? Great! Let's play.

We are in control of an elite SAS squad, who enter the lion's den to kill bad guys, rescue hostages, and save the day. This ain't a fake arcade action affair, but instead, tries to be realistic and thus requires stealth and tactical thought. So, a wrong move could end without assessing the situation, and it could get the team killed. And dead means dead; there are no second chances in this world. It's brutal, so be warned.

The first job is to select a 4-man team from eight warriors. Equip these guys with the right weapons for each mission whilst taking into consideration type, rate of fire, ammo, weight, and noise. There is a lot of hardware to choose from, like machine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, stun grenades, and gas canisters.

Choose your weaponry wisely and specifically for the mission at hand. Remember, some weapons need a reload after each shot. You're not superman, it's often advisable to wear a bulletproof jacket. I hear there are a limited number of medkits? But these will certainly help to recover from injuries.

The next screenshot is of you after your workout! Is it lifelike? Well, take a look...

This guy is ripped yet still manages to look a bit gay. Put on a shirt, mate!

Think covertly

There is a lot to consider, so put aside any ideas you had of an arcade shooter. Sabre Team demands careful, calculative and strategic thinking, so your assault should be executed with a stealthy approach that protects your men from danger. For example, don't stand near a window! The terrain isn't just something nice to look at; use it for cover as the enemy won't know you're there if they cannot see (or hear) you.

The battlefield is viewed isometrically, and our soldiers are controlled through the use of action points. This means your men are allowed a specific number of moves before the computer gets a turn. The user interface is excellent with helpful animations to identify their purpose (just hover the mouse over them).

These icons are used to turn, walk, shoot and other fun stuff like searching dead bodies. The compass not only controls the soldier's direction but also displays the number of action points required for each particular task. Plus alerts for what a soldier might be able to see (red) or hear (blue). Play as if you were there!

The next screenshot explains the mission's task. Read it carefully and don't be daft...

Always read the backstory and gather as much detail as you can. It will help.

No manual to read?

Sabre Team provides incredible insight into the tactical strategy like few others. Using your action points to run into a situation, guns-blazing will only get you and your teammates killed. Take your time, think about your moves - there's no rush as it's turn-based, so the computer will wait. However, when it’s the computer’s turn, you’re stuck waiting 3/4 minutes for it to decide the baddy's actions.  This wait is particularly brutal, not only because of its length but also because you’re watching your team take hits due to your mistakes.

It's now that you need to read this tip:) Press and hold the mouse button to speed up the computer's process. It's like hitting fast forward on a tape deck (or a DVD player for the youngsters!)

Right then, let's see another screenshot taken with my phone on my real Atari ST...

Sometimes I hate emulator screenshots and prefer using my real ST. Sometimes it's a bit naff!

Graphics & Sounds

We begin at the title screen depicting a sinister SAS soldier emerging from the darkness, ready to assassinate terrorists. It's like a post-apocalyptic/Who Dares Wins, and is incredibly impressive. Phil Hackney did a superb job with the in-game graphics, as each environment has superb attention to detail for the landscapes and their scenery. I adore how all levels take on a realistic scene without feeling cheap or tacky.

The sound effects are excellent, with samples used to complement the tension of tactical warfare. Great quality, and I'm excited to see they didn't wimp out by using samples for weaponry, cries, and other effects.

I need another screenshot from my Atari ST that shows how great I am at the game... He says...

Another shot from the ST, and here I am helping a poor civilian to safety.

The CryptO'pinion?

Never have I enjoyed a game that demands such a truly tremendous amount of tactics, stealth, and strategic thinking, all within a complex turn-based world. Take your time, plan your every move, and use those action points wisely, before anxiously watching the computer do exactly the same (it's very good!).

There is a learning curve, so don't expect a cakewalk. Initial attempts will end with laughable casualties as you uncover the joy of its realism. It’s cruel and takes no prisoners, but addictive. Sabre Team demands thought, patience, and wit to be successful. Covertly eliminating nasty terrorists is extremely satisfying.

Stop what you're doing. Don't miss this game. Play it right now!!

8BitChip has a hard drive game, floppies at Atari Legend.

Trusteft has a great video from unboxing to gameplay!

                            

PouifOuf

English translation, please?

PouifOuf is a French word, but it seems no translator understands it. Well, it's the name of a unique platformer developed by Le Glod for the Atari ST using the old favourite: GFA Basic. Firstly, don't go off the familiar visuals because it's nothing like you might imagine, and there are no magic pockets, either!

This familiar-looking platformer also features a kid. But his journey is different, and he must run around, almost like a headless chicken, collecting items scattered on each screen. It's manic with a frantic style, reminding me of a cross between Roger and CarVup. We can walk left or right, but cannot jump or use any weapon with our idle magic pockets. Thankfully, there are platforms with "springboards" to use. These propel us upwards to reach those higher places. It's now that you realise the cunning thought needed to beat its design.

Curiously interested, or have you already walked away? Here is a screenshot for those still here...

Hang on, is that the Bitmap Kid I see? The little fella is running around collecting everything!

Boing!!!

The gameplay is very different from what I expected. It's a little crazy, and there are lots of silly enemies who love to get underfoot and make our lives hell. They aren't lethal but will humorously bounce you around the screen like a pinball. The emphasis here is Zool-like speed and fun, which is a breath of fresh air.

Sometimes, fruit items fall from the top of the screen, but they don't appear much more than something to be collected. Simple stuff, but I now assume PouifOuf is an unfinished project? I would love to know more about this hidden GEM, and I've contacted Le Glod, but have heard nothing back yet. So, gather those items because we can only move on to the next level once all are collected. Yep, very simple, and darn good fun!!

Glad you stayed? Of course, you are, because this game is cool. Here's a screenshot...

I was enjoying the game, and then a giant face appeared in the middle of the level. Wonder how it is ;)

Aesthetics

The visuals are lovely, and everything scrolls perfectly smoothly to complement the gameplay requirements. Ignore the ripped graphics and enjoy the blistering speeds. Note, I cannot stress this enough: play using real hardware for the best possible experience. Wonderful programming for a wonderful game.

Sound effects or music can be activated at any time using the F-keys, but I prefer the gorgeous chiptune.

It zips about like a drunk driver on a busy high street! Let's see another screenshot...

Use the springboards, but watch out for the baddies who will make you tumble!

The CryptO'pinion?

I have thoroughly enjoyed playing this platformer, which is a refreshing surprise - and nothing like I first imagined. It had me smiling like a Cheshire Cat thanks to its hectic playability. I might not be able to pronounce "PouifOuf", but I know a great game when I see it. And this is a blummin' furious platformer!!

Simple gameplay that is incredibly fun. I cannot recommend it highly enough, so grab yourself a copy.