Home of Retro PC Gaming
Currently hosting 54 platform games!
|
Home of Retro PC Gaming
Currently hosting 54 platform games! |
| Abuse 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Crack dot Com | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Crack dot Com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 640×400×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
One of the most innovative platform games ever, Abuse is a cult classic. Players move using the arrow keys on their keyboard, but aim their weapons using the mouse. This allows the hero to fire in 360°, even while running in the opposite direction. The story changed between versions, though the rest of the game is largely unchanged. In v1.05, the game takes place in 2021, and Nick Vrenna is a Unified Underground agent fighting against the Ants. In v2.0, Nick Vrenna is wrongly incarcerated in the year 2009. Genetic experiments that isolated the aggression gene, called Abuse, have caused everyone in the prison to transform into hideous monsters. Using battle armor, Nick must prevent the Abuse-infected water supply from contaminating the outside world. The graphics are dark and almost photo-realistic, and the sound effects and music are terrifying. Monsters scream as they ambush, and the entire game has the feel of a science fiction horror movie. There are a variety of weapons, and various switches, doors and elevators, breakable walls, hidden areas, and teleports are arranged as puzzles that must be solved in order to advance. The commercial version has 17 levels, 12 network-only levels, and more weapons, enemies, sound effects and artwork. DownloadsAbuse v2.0 Shareware Episode (3055k) Play online AvailabilityCrack dot Com has generously released this game as freeware.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adventures of Captain Comic, The 1988 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Shareware (full version) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Michael A. Denio | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Michael A. Denio | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Captain Comic was one of the first DOS platformers to gain popularity. The backgrounds are unusually detailed for EGA graphics, and the game is noted for being extremely large. Playing the galactic hero, Captain Comic, your mission is to recover three treasures from the planet Omsoc, which have been stolen by an alien race known as Tambians, and taken back to their planet. Your character can have up to five shots on the screen at a time, though he has a shot meter that can be used up, and recharges when he isn't shooting. DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adventures of MicroMan, The 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | Win16 Win9x Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The Adventures of MicroMan is a complete game built with Brian Goble's Windows Animation Package, based on an earlier playable demo called MicroMan. The hero, Bob Jones, was shrunk to micron size as part of an experiment, and is now trapped in a computer full of unfriendly robots. It features a variety of mechanical enemies, three weapon upgrades, a super jump ability and a shield, moving platforms, platforms that fade in and out of existence, transporters, a mirror room where MicroMan is mirrored vertically and horizontally, and a total of 54 rooms and three bottomless pits. Changes from the demo include the addition of springboards, invisible platforms, and new enemies. There are platforms that will only move when MicroMan is standing on them, and platforms that will only move when he isn't standing on them. Version 1.5 added background music and save points, improved the sound effects and allowed multiple sounds to play simultaneously, allowed MicroMan to have more shots on the screen at a time, made the animation even smoother, and made three rooms much easier. In 1999, version 2.0 was released for Win32. It doubled the default game speed, added joystick support, changed some of the voices and sound effects, made three rooms easier and added a save point to another. There are 2 adventures in this game, with only the first adventure playable in the shareware version. Adventure 1: Crazy Computers Downloads
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game. Brian Goble's company, HipSoft, still sells a new Win32 game called MicroMan's Crazy Computers.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Alien Carnage 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Interactive Binary Illusions, SubZero Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
This game was originally called Halloween Harry, presumably because everyone on Earth has been turned into a zombie. Version 1.0 was an incomplete version that only appeared in a UK Magazine. Following version 1.2 version, the game was renamed Alien Carnage and the version number returned to 1.0. The only other difference is that Mission 3 became Mission 1, and vice versa. Despite this change, it is still legal to distribute the shareware version of Halloween Harry, so you can try out Mission 1 and 3 before you buy! You play Harry, and your goal is to defeat the aliens who are turning everyone into zombies, killing the zombies that get in your way. You get a number of weapons and a jetpack to fly around levels. Gameplay looks and feels a lot like Hocus Pocus. The graphics and animation are good (even sexy in places), and most of the soundtrack is awesome. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Mission 1 - Sewers DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityJohn Passfield and Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Alien Carnage Freeware License in May 2007.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Arctic Adventure 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Micro F/X Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software, Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The sequel to Pharaoh's Tomb, this Nevada Smith adventure takes place 6 months later. This time you're searching for Viking treasure in the arctic. Gameplay is virtually identical to Pharaoh's Tomb. This time Nevada has infinite lives, which is good because the levels are much harder. There are 20 levels in each episode, but you have some flexibility in which order you complete the levels because this game adds a map screen. Version 1.0 was published by Micro F/X Software, before George Broussard merged his operations with Scott Miller's Apogee Software. Version 2.0 was published by Apogee. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee generously released this game as freeware under the Arctic Adventure Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bio Menace 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
An odd little platform game in which a mutant army created by Dr. Mangle has invaded Metro City. As Snake Logan, a CIA agent, you have to shoot everything that moves and rescue the citizens. Graphics and sound aren't great, but the irreverent dialog is humorous. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Dr. Mangle's Lab DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee generously released this game as freeware under the Bio Menace Freeware License in December 2005.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charlie II 2001 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8.5 | DOS Win9x Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Wiering Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Wiering Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Charlie II is a nice improvement over the original, Charlie the Duck. Every level is full of hidden and secret areas, and the challenge is to find them in order to collect coins and diamonds. Charlie can't leave the level until he has found enough coins, which is determined by the difficulty setting. There are also hidden levels to unlock. The game looks better and has more types of enemies than the original, and Charlie can now enter some areas by diving in the water. Starting with version 2.0, each version includes both a DOS version and a Win9x version that takes advantage of DirectX, adding Scale2x image smoothing, as well as background music and realistic quacking. Both versions are in the same archive. There are 18 levels in this game, with only the first 6 levels playable in the shareware version. There is also an expansion pack that adds 18 additional levels to the registered version. Downloads
AvailabilityWiering Software still sells the registered version of this game for $15 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charlie the Duck 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Wiering Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Wiering Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Charlie the Duck is a beautifully animated sidescroller designed to be appropriate for gamers of all ages. Charlie can bounce on his enemies; jump, but not fly; and wade in the water, but not dive or swim. The boss of the first level is a giant fish that spits fireballs and is protected by two smaller, invincible fish. You have to jump directly onto its eyes five times to defeat it. After studying the demo video, I was able to beat the level after a few dozen attempts, but it's unlikely that any child born of human parents can beat this level, so just tell your kids that they've won when they get that far. There are 3 worlds in this game, with only the first world playable in the shareware version. Downloads
AvailabilityWiering Software still sells the registered version of this game for $7.50 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Clyde's Adventure 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8.3 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Clyde's Adventure is one of those games that you either love or hate. It's a platformer by the developer of Hocus Pocus, which means that the goal is exploration and puzzle solving. Clyde is searching for treasure and must find every single gem in every level, but he uses energy when he walks, jumps, or falls from a great height. He has a wand that can temporarily remove some bricks and light bombs that can permanently destroy others. There are no enemies, so the challenge comes from avoiding traps and explosions, triggering invisible platforms and teleports, and finding the most efficient route before Clyde runs out of energy. There are helpful, and often humorous messages to help you along the way. It takes many attempts to master each level. This game can be extremely frustrating, but it's also very rewarding when you finally win. The graphics are some of the most impressive ever featured in an EGA game, and each level is full of glowing, glittering or flashing platforms and backgrounds. Featuring parallax scrolling, there is a foreground, background, and a deep background outside the windows, and a sort of fake fourth layer where birds can be seen disappearing behind the clouds. The gems are often arranged so that the sound effects play music as you collect them. A very clever game for very clever people. There are 2 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Lost Treasure of Tahookaboo DownloadsClyde's Adventure v3.0 Registered Version (289k) Play online AvailabilityMoonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Clyde's Revenge 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9.3 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The sequel to Clyde's Adventure, featuring VGA graphics and enhanced sound. This time there are four difficulty levels. There is a pure exploration difficulty level for kids that makes Clyde invincible and health irrelevant. In the other three difficulty levels, Clyde still takes damage from traps and falling from a great height, but he no longer loses health as he walks or jumps, eliminating the need to plan the entire level in advance and play as efficiently as possible. This makes the game much less frustrating while maintaining most of the challenge. Gold and silver keys are added to the game, as well as magnets and other types of terrain. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. DownloadsClyde's Revenge v1.5 Registered Version (2392k) AvailabilityMoonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commander Keen: Aliens Ate My Babysitter 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by id Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by FormGen Corporation, Precision Software Applications | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In the final episode of the Keen series, Commander Keen must rescue his babysitter from aliens using nothing but a gun and a pogo stick. As in Goodbye Galaxy, you start with the pogo stick, which is really helpful. Excellent level design and imaginative enemies make this a fitting finale to a beloved series that is known for simple graphics and gameplay, but excellent replayability and fun factor. A "Special Demo Version" was distributed in North America by FormGen, and a "Promotional Release Version" was distributed in the UK distributor by Precision Software Applications. There are 17 levels in this game, with only the first few playable in the shareware version. Episode 6: Aliens Ate My Babysitter Downloads
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game. It is the only Commander Keen game on id Software's website that doesn't have a "Buy It" link.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7.3 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by FormGen Corporation, id Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The sequel to Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons, with a new engine and much improved graphics and sound. Once again, you must save the world armed with a gun and a pogo stick, against new aliens and through new worlds. This time you don't have to find the pogo stick, but you can find scuba gear to help you swim. Episode numbers in Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy continue from the original trilogy, making the two games a series. A CGA version was also released, and FormGen distributed a five level demo of the EGA version. There are 2 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 4: Secret of the Oracle DownloadsComplete version history:Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy v1.4 Shareware Episode (712k) Play onlineCommander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy v1.2 Shareware Episode (567k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy v1.1 Shareware Episode (582k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy v1.0 Shareware Episode (614k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy Special Demo Version v1.0 (527k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy CGA v1.4 Shareware Episode (493k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy CGA v1.1 Shareware Episode (491k) Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy CGA v1.0 Shareware Episode (474k) AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download. id Software still sells the registered version of this game with Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons for $10 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by id Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In one of the most popular platform games of all time, you play Billy Blaze, the intrepid Commander Keen, who has built a space ship and flown to Mars to stop a Vorticon invasion. You get a gun and can find a pogo stick to help you make your way through levels with a number of different aliens, some of which are friendly. Suitable for all ages, this game has universal appeal. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Marooned on Mars DownloadsComplete version history:Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons v1.31 Shareware Episode (238k) Play onlineCommander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons v1.3 Shareware Episode (156k) Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons v1.1 Shareware Episode (191k) Commander Keen: Invasion of the Vorticons v1.0 Shareware Episode (Still searching) AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download. id Software still sells the registered version of this game with Commander Keen: Goodbye Galaxy for $10 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cool Spot 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Virgin Interactive | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Virgin Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Despite being an advertisement for 7 Up, this platform game about Cool Spot's quest to collect 7 Up spots is really good, winning fans and even awards for its music. Cool Spot can shoot soda bubbles in eight directions, and can jump and grab onto things like balloons. The game features challenging gameplay and smooth graphics. Cool Spot searches for spots in a number of beach levels, and can rescue a Cool Spot who is locked in a cage when he collects enough spots, which depends on the difficulty level. If he collects enough spots, he can go to a bonus level. A time limit prevents you from taking forever to find all 100 spots in each level. Virtually identical to console versions of the game. Only the first level is playable in the shareware demo. DownloadsCool Spot Shareware Demo (409k) AvailabilityVirgin Games no longer sells this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cosmo's Cosmic Adventure 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 6.5 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A simple but fun platform adventure. Cosmo is a young alien who is heading to Disney World when their ship is forced to crash land on a strange planet. Cosmo's parents are abducted while he goes exploring, and now he must rescue them. Cosmo can stick to walls and jump on enemies. There are lots of hidden items and bonuses and secret areas to search for. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Crystal Caves 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 5.5 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A very simple EGA platformer. You play Mylo Steamwitz, a miner who dreams of owning his own twibble farm. You go from planet to planet finding jewels in the mines to make your dream come true. A map screen allows you to play the levels in almost any order. Ammunition is limited, and some levels have reverse gravity, so you have to use your head a bit more in this game than most. The graphics and sound are ugly even by EGA standards, but the game itself is a good diversion. Version 1.0 may cause your system clock to lose 100 years if run from Windows XP. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Trouble with Twibbles DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dark Ages 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Scenario Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Dark Ages is an extremely primitive-looking platformer in which you play a prince who was kidnapped by an evil wizard and raised by a peasant who turned out to be a hero. Trained to use magic, you must save your kingdom from the dark ages by defeating the evil wizard, Garth, who has given the kingdom to undead creatures and rules with an iron fist. There are 3 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: Prince of Destiny DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee generously released this game as freeware under the Dark Ages Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disney's Aladdin 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Virgin Interactive | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Virgin Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Based on the Disney animated movie, Aladdin must escape capture in the marketplace and, ultimately, defeat the wizard Jafar to save the kingdom. The animation is extremely smooth and looks very much like the movie. Aladdin can throw apples and fight with a scimitar, as well as jump and climbing. There are save points within levels so that Aladdin doesn't have to start the level from the beginning if he is defeated. The game is virtually identical to the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive game from which it was ported. Among the impressive music and voice acting in this game is a vocal rendition of "A Whole New World" at the title screen. There are 10 levels in this game, with only the first level playable in the shareware demo. DownloadsDisney's Aladdin Shareware Demo (1336k) AvailabilityVirgin Games no longer sells this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Duke Nukem 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The game that started it all. Duke Nukem is a sidescrolling game robots, aliens, and lots of weapons. Your goal is to defeat Dr. Proton who is trying to take over the world. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Shrapnel City DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Duke Nukem II 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The sequel to the popular original Duke Nukem game, with vastly superior graphics, sound and gameplay. Duke has been captured by aliens and needs to frag his way through alien worlds. This time Duke can fire up and down, and can also scroll the screen up and down. The intro features beautiful 256 color VGA graphics, but the game reverts to 16 color graphics once the game starts. Still, the graphics are so good that it's hard to believe that you're only seeing 16 colors. There are 4 episodes in this game, creatively named Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3, and Episode 4, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Electro Man 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by xLand Games | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames, xLand Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A very unusual platformer. Your play a cyborg named Jack, a human modified to look like Robocop in order to fight robots who killed your family. Your goal is to locate three computer chips in every level. Your gun only fires when you can find energy for it, and you have infinite lives, which is good because this is a very hard game. One of the difficult aspects of the game is the attempt at realistic physics. You can't change your direction in mid-air, meaning that you can't jump straight up and then push forward, you must be moving forward to jump forward. Once you've jumped, you can't push in the opposite direction to try to come down closer. Not being able to change direction in mid-air may be a difficult adaptation if you're used to console video games; inertia is a real consideration in this game. The graphics and sound are quite good, and there are voices. Originally published by CDV Software as electro BODY, the name was changed to Electro Man when published by Epic. There are 8 levels in this game, with only the fourth level playable in the shareware version. DownloadsElectro Man Creative Commons Registered Version (887k) Play online AvailabilityDeveloper xLand generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 license on 25 June 2006.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Heros I: The Sanguine Seven 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Jeffrey Fullerton | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Safari Software (Epic MegaGames), Jeffrey Fullerton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Heros is an EGA platformer with FM sound and a comic book theme. You can play as seven different heroes, including a flying squirrel who can glide short distances, a woman with a rocket pack, and a wad of bubble gum who can climb walls. The heroes must stop the reign of terror of an evil rabbit named Wild Hare. Comic book stereotype phrases like "Bam" and "Oof" appear when heroes or villains are hit. Originally published as full version software by Jeffrey Fullerton, Safari Software (then a division of Epic MegaGames) later published a shareware version (with correct spelling of the word "heroes") called "Heroes: The Tantalizing Trio" because only three of the heroes are playable. There are 50 levels in this game, with only the first 11 different playable in the shareware version. Downloads
AvailabilityAuthor Jeffrey Fullerton generously released this game as freeware under the Heros Freeware License on 22 June 2005.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hocus Pocus 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 2.5 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Proof that the simplest concept can lead to some of the best games. Guide a young wizard through strange worlds and shoot enemies with lightning bolts. It's fun, and it even has excellent graphics and sound. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Time Tripping DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jazz Jackrabbit 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7.7 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Jazz Jackrabbit is a combination of several styles of platform game. Being a rabbit, Jazz can run very fast and speed is a major component of the game, warranting instant comparison to Sonic the Hedgehog. There are a lot of items to collect, which requires extensive exploration, something that Sonic wouldn't have time for. Finally, Jazz carries a big gun and finds many different kinds of ammo. He's also a great jumper, so perhaps he's Sonic, Mario, and Duke Nukem rolled into one. The graphics and sound are excellent, and Jazz Jackrabbit is generally regarded as one of the best DOS games ever. Originally, episodes 1-3 and 4-6 could be purchased separately, and three new episodes, A-C, were added in the CD-ROM version, Jazz Jackrabbit CD. There are 9 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Turtle Terror DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityThe registered version of this game is still sold through www.epicclassics.com for $25 on CD-ROM.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jazz Jackrabbit 2 1998 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | Win9x Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames, Orange Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Gathering of Developers, Project Two Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Jazz Jackrabbit moves to Windows 95 to take advantage of DirectX and 16-bit color. This time around you can play as either Jazz or his brother Spaz, who has the ability to double jump instead of Jazz's helicopter ears. New to Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is the ability to pound the ground. The graphics and sound are excellent, and really take advantage of DirectX 5's capabilities. Jazz Jackrabbit 2 went through a number of publishers, being published by Project Two Interactive up to v1.20, and through Gathering of Developers as of v1.23. There are 6 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Shareware Demo Downloads
AvailabilityEpic no longer sells this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Released as "Jazz Jackrabbit Christmas Edition", this freeware episode lists itself as "Episode X: Holiday Hare" on the episode selection screen, beneath the 9 episodes from Jazz Jackrabbit. Episode X was never added to the original game, so Holiday Hare is a standalone game based on the Jazz Jackrabbit engine. Featuring the same awesome graphics as the original, tons of weapons, and a rock and roll soundtrack based on a medley of Christmas carols, Jazz travels to the wintry planet Holidaius to fight more tortoises and other enemies. DownloadsJazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare (1404k) AvailabilityThis game was originally released under a freeware license.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare 1995 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
For the second year in a row, Epic released a freeware episode of Jazz Jackrabbit that lists itself as "Episode X: Holiday Hare" on the episode selection screen, beneath the 9 episodes from Jazz Jackrabbit. Despite the identical name and episode designation as 1994's "Christmas Edition", Holiday Hare 95 is a new standalone game based on the Jazz Jackrabbit engine. Featuring the same awesome graphics as the original, tons of weapons, and an incredible remix of Carol of the Bells for the soundtrack, this time Jazz travels to the planet Candion to fight more tortoises and other enemies, and eat lots of candy. Downloads
AvailabilityThis game was originally released under a freeware license.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jetpack 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Adam Pedersen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Impulse Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
One of my all-time favorite games. Jetpack has similarities to Lode Runner, except that you control a character who has a jetpack that allows him to fly (when he has fuel), in addition to the ability to temporarily phase change bricks in order to trap enemies or move through walls, floors and ceilings. In every level various enemies try to kill you, and you must collect all of the green orbs and make it through the door to advance to the next stage. The levels and challenges are excellent, and make good use of stairs, barriers and different types of terrain. There is also an extremely good level editor, and hundreds of user-created levels can be found on fan sites throughout the internet. Originally published by Software Creations, the name changed to Impulse Software by v1.4. There are 100 levels in this game, with only the first 10 levels playable in the shareware version. DownloadsComplete version history:Jetpack v1.5 Registered (484k) Play onlineJetpack v1.4 Shareware (337k) Jetpack v1.3 Shareware (441k) Jetpack v1.2 Shareware (299k) Jetpack v1.1 Shareware (280k) Jetpack v1.0 Shareware (296k) AvailabilityAuthor Adam Pedersen generously released Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe! as freeware under the Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe Freeware License on 17 December 1998. They are both in the same zip file.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jetpack Christmas Special! 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Adam Pedersen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Software Creations (Impulse Software) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In this free promotional Christmas version of Jetpack, you play as Santa Claus! Instead of green orbs, you now need to collect all of the Christmas presents to move to the next level. Santa has a jetpack that allows him to fly (when he has fuel), and he can temporarily phase change bricks to trap enemies or move through walls, floors and ceilings. The levels and challenges are excellent, and make good use of stairs, barriers and different types of terrain. The Christmas edition still comes with a level editor, so you can make your own Christmas-themed levels. There are 10 levels in the game. Downloads
AvailabilityThis game was originally released under a freeware license.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jill of the Jungle 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 3 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Jill can jump really high and throw various weapons in this mediocre platformer. Most of the thinking in this game involves figuring out how to get Jill to jump to new areas, which can be a bit tedious. It does feature an innovative map screen, which can also be explored, and there are voices. The graphics are far less impressive by comparison. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Jill of the Jungle DownloadsJill of the Jungle v1.2 Shareware Episode (300k) Play online AvailabilityThe registered version of this game is still sold through www.epicclassics.com for $19 on floppy disk.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jumpman Lives! 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Public domain | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Shamusoft Designs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A remake of the original Jumpman. Explosives have been scattered throughout a laboratory on Saturn, and you play an elite anti-terrorist agent trying to prevent the destruction of the planet. You must climb ladders and jump around with special high jump boots, collecting all of the little orbs that represent bombs on each level, while avoiding enemies and trying not to fall too far. It's a bit like Jetpack, without the jetpack, or Moraff's Escapade without the ability to move blocks. The commercial version has 45 levels. DownloadsJumpman Lives! Registered Version (142k) Play online AvailabilityNOTE: Apogee does not distribute, sell, register, or retain copyright on this game. This is officially abandonware.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Keen Dreams 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 5 | DOS Shareware (full version) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by id Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Softdisk Publishing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Under contract to make another game for Softdisk, id created a Commander Keen game called Keen Dreams. It was published between Invasion of the Vorticons and Goodbye Galaxy!, and is often referred to as Episode 3.5. The graphics will be instantly familiar, but Keen no longer has a pogo stick or ray gun. The story takes place in Commander Keen's dreams, which explains why he wears his pajamas. Keen finds himself in a vegetable kingdom ruled by Boobus Tuber, an evil potato king Boobus Tuber (Super Mario Bros. 2 anyone?). Keen can still jump really high, duck, drop from platforms, and climb fire poles, as he can in Goodbye Galaxy!, but he uses "Flower Power" seeds to temporarily turn enemies into flowers. The graphics and sound are very similar to Goodbye Galaxy!, minus the incredible backgrounds. I find the game to be more difficult than most others in the series, in no small part because Keen throws seeds in an arch, rather than firing a raygun charge in a straight line. The seeds will bounce around for a while before disappearing, so sometimes you hit an enemy on the rebound. Downloads
AvailabilitySoftdisk's new publisher, Flat Rock Software, still sells the registered version of this game for $9.95 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lion King, The 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Virgin Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Virgin Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Based on the Disney animated movie, Simba must survive long enough to grow up and avenge the death of his father. The animation is extremely smooth and the game looks very much like the movie. The Lion King was acclaimed for the quality of Simba's animation. Simba crouches, jumps, and pulls himself onto ledges so realistically that he seems like a real lion. Simba can roar at enemies to stun them, or kill them by jumping on them. When he grows up, he can also slash them with his claws. Virtually identical to console versions of the game. The soundtrack features songs from the movie. Only the first level is playable in the shareware demo. DownloadsThe Lion King Shareware Demo (1336k) AvailabilityVirgin Games no longer sells this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Magic Pockets 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by The Bitmap Brothers | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Renegade Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c EGA 640×200×16c VGA 640×400×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Magic Pockets is an incredibly straightforward platformer. You play the Bitmap Kid, whose pockets hold an infinite number of toys. Some of your toys have captured by monsters escaped, so you must enter worlds inside of the pockets, throwing objects from your pockets to kill enemies. Sometimes you find a helmet which will transport you to a secret area, or give you powers like the ability to fire lasers. The gameplay is a bit slow, but the graphics are decent. Only the first level is playable in the shareware version. DownloadsMagic Pockets Shareware Demo (240k) Play online AvailabilityThe Bitmap Brothers no longer sell this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mega Man X 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Capcom | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Capcom | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
An excellent DOS port of Mega Man X for SNES. In the 22nd Century, a new Mega Man named X must fight an army of maverick sentient robots led by Sigma, a robot who used to lead the Maverick Hunters. X has most of the abilities of the previous Mega Man, and can charge his beam and wall jump. The game features highly detailed graphics and beautiful backgrounds taken directly from the SNES game. There are 15 levels in this game, with only the first level playable in the shareware demo. DownloadsMega Man X Shareware Demo (1031k) Play online AvailabilityCapcom no longer sells this game. It can be ordered from Amazon: Mega Man X.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| MicroMan 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | Win16 Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
MicroMan was created as a playable demo to promote Brian Goble's Windows Animation Package. It features a variety of mechanical enemies, three weapon upgrades, a super jump ability and a shield, moving platforms, platforms that fade in and out of existence, transporters, a mirror room where MicroMan is mirrored vertically and horizontally, and a total of 14 rooms and two bottomless pits. The free demo led to the creation of an entire game, The Adventures of MicroMan. Although designed to show off the abilities of WAP, the game is quite challenging and even includes a Cheat Mode to help players complete the game. Downloads
AvailabilityThis game was originally released under a freeware license.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Monster Bash 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A Halloween-themed game with lots of animated blood and gore, by the standards of the time. You play a kid named Johnny Dash, and you need to rescue your dog, and many other cats and dogs, from a bunch of monsters using only a slingshot. Version 2.1 was also released as "Monster Bash Lite", which included only the first three levels to make it a smaller download. There are 3 episodes in this game, creatively named Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. DownloadsComplete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Monuments of Mars 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Scenario Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Based on the FAST engine, Monuments of Mars takes most of the best elements of Pharaoh's Tomb and adds new challenges. Astronauts have been disappearing in ruins on Mars, and your job is to discover the secrets and rescue the survivors. Gameplay is quite different from the Nevada Smith series because many areas only become accessible after tripping invisible switches, and there are movable blocks. Having a changeable environment is a great twist. Your character has infinite lives, but it's still a good idea to save in case you get stuck somewhere and can't die. Poor collision detection makes some of the later levels more frustrating than necessary. Developed by Scenario Software, Todd Replogle misspelled the name of his own company, listing it as "Scenerio Software" on the title page! There are 20 levels in each volume, which must be played sequentially because there is no map screen. There are 4 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: First Contact DownloadsComplete version history:Monuments of Mars v1.0 Registered Version (201k) Play onlineMonuments of Mars v1.0 Shareware Episode (78k) Play online AvailabilityApogee generously released this game as freeware under the Monuments of Mars Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Moraff's Escapade 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by MoraffWare | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MoraffWare | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A maze platformer with platforms that are can be reached by ladders or climbing across ropes, Escapade is a lot like Jumpman, except that the levels generally have to be solved by trapping the enemies by picking up and dropping bricks. Your goal is to collect all of the diamonds in each level. Your character can fall from any height without dying, and can even walk on the heads of some enemies! Escapade claimed to be the only 1024×768 arcade game at the time but, like many MoraffWare games, it hardly looks like it takes advantage of that resolution. In the MCGA version (320×200 and 256 simultaneous colors from a palette 262,144), the hero is drawn with only two colors: red and green. The Tseng Super VGA mode, which is 1024×768, features a very detailed background, but there hero is still composed of only three colors: red, blue, and green. There are 10 difficulty levels with 5 levels in each. The registered version contains more levels. Moraff's Escapade Shareware (138k) AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game, and it is not listed on Moraff's website.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pharaoh's Tomb 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Micro F/X Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
You are Nevada Smith, an archaeologist and adventurer who is exploring an Egyptian pyramid. You can jump and shoot arrows, and there is sometimes hidden treasure in some of the blocks if you hit them from below, like Super Mario. There is no sidescrolling, though. Each level consists of a single, appropriately named room, and there are 20 levels in each episode. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Raiders of the Lost Tomb
AvailabilityApogee generously released this game as freeware under the Pharaoh's Tomb Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pickle Wars 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Redwood Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MVP Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A strange platformer in which the peaceful planet Arcadia has been invaded by aliens who look like pickles. You must guide both the hero and heroine as they find ancient weapons to fight off the invasion. The hero and heroine look surprisingly real, but the graphics and sound are otherwise not very impressive. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Invasion of the Pickle People Pickle Wars Shareware Episode (1550k) Play online AvailabilityRedwood Games still sells the registered version of this game for $12 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Rayman 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ubi Soft Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Ubi Soft Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Rayman is an unusual platform game originally released Atari Jaguar and DOS. Initially Rayman can only jump and avoid enemies, but he quickly acquires useful abilities such as his telescopic punching fist, the ability to grab onto ledges, and helicopter hair, which allows him to levitate for a few seconds during a jump. The telescopic punching fist needs some explanation: Rayman fights by literally throwing his fist! It returns to him, of course, and causes damage while going and returning. The longer he winds up, the farther his fist goes. The worlds are full of power-ups such as "Tings": blue orbs which give Rayman an extra life when he collects 100 of them. Rayman already has the telescopic punching fist in the shareware demo, but not the highly useful helicopter hair. The original demo was released in a self-extracting zip file which must be run with the "-d" argument in order to extract the necessary directory tree. Ubisoft later re-released the demo in a Win32 self-extracting archive which resolves that problem. There are 6 worlds in this game, with only one level from the first world playable in the shareware version.
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Realms of Chaos 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A challenging platformer where you can switch between a hero and heroine during battle. The hero is strong but has only a sword for a weapon, while the heroine can jump higher and throw fireballs, but casting magic costs gems. Characters often need to be switched between to complete levels, and since the characters have separate health meters, characters can also be switched to save a character is weak until health potions can be found. The first level is extremely difficult because anything that touches you will knock off you of the platform onto the spikes below for an instant death. Once you get through the first level, the game becomes easy by comparison and the game becomes fun. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Complete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Robomaze II 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Wetware | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MVP Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c EGA 640×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Despite crude graphics, bad title screen music and challenging controls, Robomaze II is a fondly remembered platformer. You are a freedom fighter in a country dominated by two massive structures known as The Tower and The Dome. Using the special "Stalker Robot", you enter The Tower through a tunnel created by The Resistance, and must fight your way through 5 levels of 20 floors each. A powerful boss robot occupies the top level of each floor. There are keys to open doors, teleporters that only you can use, and teleporters that drop enemies into the room. You have an unlimited amount of ammunition with your basic weapon, but better weapons can be picked up from time to time. You can also use money that you find throughout the game to buy skills that you need at any time, such as the ability to temporarily super jump, or just zap everything in the room. Speed can be increased or decreased with the + and - buttons, but the three speeds seem to be designed for, say, XT, AT and 286 computers, so they will tend to be too fast or too slow when emulating on a modern computer. You can save your game at any time, but you can only continue every 5 levels, so if you save on level 4, you'll continue from level 1! There are 3 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: The Lobby Robomaze II Shareware Episode (119k) AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Secret Agent 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 4 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Basically this is Crystal Caves, except that you're Agent 006 and you travel islands instead of planets. The Diabolical Villain Society has stolen blueprints to a satellite-based laser and you must stop them. Like Crystal Caves, you have infinite lives and a map screen that gives you some flexibility in the order you complete the levels. Some EGA games actually have good graphics and sound, but this game does not. It does have interesting enemies, cheesy James Bond references and puns, and fun gameplay. Another fun little diversion. Version 1.0 may cause your system clock to lose 100 years if run from Windows XP. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - The Hunt for Red Rock Rover Complete version history:
AvailabilityApogee still sells the registered version of this game for $5.99 by download.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skunny: Back to the Forest 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Copysoft | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Copysoft | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Skunny: Back to the Forest is a speedy sidescroller that attempts to be the PC version of Sonic the Hedgehog. You can play as either Skunny or Rosie, who seem to differ only in their gender. Rather than health, there is a time limit. Time is removed from the clock when you are hurt by enemies, and replaced when you eat food. Skunny and Rosie have no weapons and can only kill enemies by jumping on them. Your goal in each level is to find a nut that makes you invincible and allows you to fly and destroy everything in your path, landscape and all. Once invincible, you can defeat the evil toad in each level and save your friend. There are 10 episodes in this game, with only the first 2 episodes playable in the shareware version. Skunny: Back to the Forest v1.0 Shareware (570k) Play online AvailabilityCopysoft still sells the full version of this game for $30.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skunny: Save Our Pizzas 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Copysoft | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Copysoft | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
An evil chef has caused everyone in the world to forget how to make pizza and only a squirrel named Skunny can restore pizza to the world by going back in time to ancient Rome to recover the recipe and ingredients. I am not making this up. In this platformer, Skunny can jump on mindless Roman soldiers or blow them up with bombs, which apparently were plentiful at the time. There are 10 episodes in this game, with only the first 2 episodes playable in the shareware version. Skunny: Save Our Pizzas v1.1 Shareware (470k) Play online AvailabilityCopysoft still sells the full version of this game for $30.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skunny: Wild West 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Copysoft | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Copysoft | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A western platform game starring Skunny the squirrel. Attempting to return from ancient Rome following Skunny: Save Our Pizzas, Skunny's time machine takes him to the wild west in 1909 where his parents are living. His father's sheep have been stolen and Skunny must save every single one of them. Skunny can carry and drop items, and the background moves when Skunny jumps, to create the illusion of depth. The registered version has more and longer levels. Skunny: Wild West v2.0 Shareware (644k) Play online AvailabilityCopysoft still sells the full version of this game for $20.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Space Chase 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Safari Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Safari Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The graphics, sound and engine should remind you a lot of Crystal Caves and Secret Agent in this simple EGA platformer. There's no map screen, though; this game is linear. In Space Chase you play Jason Storm, a former marine who can really jump. Your mission is to defeat the leaders of Evil Guys, Inc. Levels are full of jewels and other bonuses, as well as monsters and robots. Ammunition is limited, so it's sometimes wiser to avoid enemies rather than shoot everything that moves. The graphics and sound aren't the greatest, but they're better than some EGA games I've played, and the fun factor makes the game worth playing through. Prior to the June 1993 release of the game, Safari software released a shareware demo of the game, which was then known as "Space Chase: The Wild Adventures of Jason Storm". Part one was called "Hero for Hire!", before being renamed to "City Under Siege" in the official release two months later. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: City Under Siege Space Chase v2.02D Shareware Episode (410k) Play online AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game, and it is not listed at www.epicclassics.com.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Super Angelo 1997 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Wiering Software | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Wiering Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Angelo is a guy with a big nose and a mustache who must save a princess from a dragon in a world that has a lot of pipes and blocks in it. Yes, it's a Super Mario Bros. clone, including enemies that look like Goomba, Koopa Troopa, Spiny, Cheep-Cheep and Podoboo. Angelo becomes Super Angelo when he eats a strawberry, and can shoot bullets in a straight line when he gets a gun. If he gets another gun power-up, he can shoot three shots at once and run much faster. There are no mid-way save points, so dying requires you to start at the beginning, although you can save at any level. The game is short, but everything Wiering Software makes is kid-friendly, so this is a good diversion for younger gamers. There are 3 worlds in this game, with only the first world playable in the shareware version.
AvailabilityThis game has been discontinued, but registered users of Charlie the Duck can use their code to register Super Angelo.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Superfrog 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Team17 Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Team17 Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×240×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
As the old fairy tale goes, a witch turns a prince into a frog and kidnaps his girlfriend. Superfrog is a pretty standard platformer with deliberately cartoony graphics. Superfrog must collect a certain number of coins in each level before he can leave through the exit, like Charlie the Duck. And, like many platformers by smaller game publishers, the control feels very loose, and much of the challenge comes from preventing the hero from sliding off of ledges. Superfrog can jump on some enemies, like Mario. Team17 created a demo that only included World 1, and another that only included World 2. There are 5 worlds in this game, with only one playable in each of the shareware versions.
AvailabilityCopyright holder Team17 Software no longer sells this game. It can be ordered from Amazon: Superfrog.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Vinyl Goddess From Mars 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Six Pound Sledge Studios | Compatibility guide | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Union Logic Software Publishing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Originally developed for Epic to be Jill of the Jungle II, the game became Vinyl Goddess From Mars when Union Logic decided to publish games independently. Gameplay is certainly reminiscent of Jill of the Jungle, but the graphics look more like Xargon, especially the identical overhead map system. This game takes place in the year 200 billion, when Vinyl's spaceship crashed on a strange planet while she was on her way to the esteemed intergalactic B Movie convention. Vinyl can jump very high and use a variety of weapons to fight monsters during her quest to gather pieces of her spaceship so that she can make it to the convention on time. There are a lot of secret areas, making exploration important. Controls are generally good, although Vinyl slides a bit when she stops running. The graphics, music and voices are also pretty good. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Forests of Old
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Xargon 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8.7 | DOS Shareware-turned-freeware | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
In Xargon you play Malvineous Havershim, an archaeologist who was studying ruins in Madagascar when a trap caused him to lose consciousness and wake up in a strange world ruled by the evil Xargon. Presumably this planet has very low gravity because you can jump very high and fall from great heights without injury. I question the ethics of the hero at times. He's an archaeologist visiting a new world and some of the creatures in the earlier levels seem to be minding their own business and merely defending their territory, but he gets points for killing them anyway. The monsters and power-ups are interesting, and the graphics are extremely detailed and shiny. The music sets the mood well, and there is a reasonable variety of voices. The difficulty level is lower than many platformers, reducing the frustration factor, and the game focuses on exploration and has many secret areas, which is exactly the way I like a game to be. The quality of the graphics, music and exploration remind me of Hocus Pocus. A score card or completion indicator to let you know when you've found everything would have been nice, but otherwise the game is quite enjoyable by any audience. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Beyond Reality DownloadsXargon v3.0 Registered Version (1357k) AvailabilityAuthor Allen Pilgrim generously released this game as freeware under the Kiloblaster and Xargon Freeware License on 4 August 2008.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Zool 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Shareware (partial game) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Gremlin Graphics | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Gremlin Graphics | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Zool was originally touted as a Sonic the Hedgehog competitor for the Amiga, though many gamers may remember it from one of the many console systems is was ported to, including Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, Super Nintendo, Amiga CD32, and Atari Jaguar, as well as Game Boy and Game Gear. Zool is a ninja of the Nth dimension. In order to get ninja ranking, he must survive six "zones", such as Sweet Zone and Music Zone. Zool can run, jump, leap off of walls, shoot, and swing his sword while he's in the air. While the idea of a ninja fighting amongst chocolate bars and candy canes is a bit strange, the game is a challenging platformer with colorful graphics. There are 6 zones in this game, with only the first of three stages in the first zone playable in the shareware version. Downloads
AvailabilityI have found no ordering information for this game.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
