Computer Gamer


Wizard's Lair

Publisher: Bubble Bus
Machine: Amstrad/Commodore 64

 
Published in Computer Gamer #7

Wizard's Lair

This is an action adventure in the mould of Knight Lore but much faster and more difficult to play. The aim is to collect golden lions which will allow you to escape from the hell hole you are in.

The rooms are seen from above and the graphics are quite good. Even when you are doing well against the numerous enemies there is always the chance that a wizard will show up to zap you. To help you survive there are items which have various attributes to protect or reinvigorate your character.

The building which you are exploring has seven floors which are reached through trapdoors but there are also matter transporters which can teleport you to a chosen level as long as you know the name of the floor you want to go to.

Wizard's Lair

On each level rooms are entered through doors (surprise, surprise). Some doors are always open while others slam open and shut. With the speed of the onrushing horde, these slamming doors can be a nuisance and if it wasn't for the fact that you are carrying a weapon all would soon be lost. Unfortunately, your weapon has limited ammunition and it is best to seek out a protection helmet whenever possible. A set of wings to double your speed can also be of use but all items found only work for a limited period so only grab them at the last minute.

This game is certainly challenging but the relentless pursuit does get tiring. Luckily there is a a pause facility for those times when it all becomes too much to bear.

Interestingly, Bubble Bus have released this as a two machine tape with an Amstrad version on one side and the Commodore version on the other. This might make good economic sense to the company concerned but it certainly does not benefit the purchaser, who loses out by not having a second chance of a successful load if there is a drop out on one side of the tape.

It did give me an opportunity to try both versions which I found compared favourably though the C64 version had a slight edge on overall quality and speed.