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Role-playing games are like double-edged knives. If they are good they are really good, and when they are bad they suck on biblical scale. For the very same reason, I usually avoid reviewing RPGs. Many C64 developers attempted to conquer this genre by copying from Japanese counterparts, while others tried to be more creative and introduce new angles. The game I'm reviewing here, Battletech, is a solid addition to this genre on C64 and a worthy addition to Westwood's catalogue.
Battletech gets off on a slow start. It will take a lot of running around before the game opens up, which can put a lot of impatient players off. In the beginning you'd have to join the academy and undergo a mandatory training. But if you persevere, you will be rewarded with a lot of entertainment. After you are out of the academy, there will be a huge world in front of you waiting to be explored. The plot remains rather thin throughout the game, but still with its share of twists turns. The combat system is well executed and the fights are usually welcome, especially since they earn you money for important upgrades to your mechs. The weapons (especially the anti-mech ones) are quite interesting.
In the visual department, Battletech looks bad, considering it was released in 1989. The sprites and the landscape remind me of Atari 2600 games. The sound is nothing to get excited about either. Luckily, the atmosphere and the gameplay are enough hold your attention.
And a piece of advice, try to get your hands on the manual if you can. Some stages of the game will be very difficult to beat without it.
Downloads: Music
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| GRAPHICS - 4/10 |
The graphics are awful, although they do the job. Much more was expected from Westwood, especially in 1989...
| | SOUND - 4/10 |
The sounds are as bad as the graphics.
| | PLAYABILITY - 8/10 |
Battletech is a highly playable RPG with great atmosphere and tons of character. It's a by-the-book entry in an established genre, but well-executed.
| | OVERALL - 6/10 |
The final score is low mostly due to the weak sound and graphics. But if you have the patience to make it through the slow start, Battletech will reward you with a great gameplay.
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| COVER |
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; "Click to zoom!")
