Zzap


Deflektor
By Gremlin
Amiga 500

 
Published in Zzap #48

Deflektor

This is a game without a story. There are no aliens to conquer and no riches to be made. Deflektor is an out and out puzzle game.

It takes place on a grid containing a laser emitter and collector. The collector is blocked by some kind of obstacle, which is only removed once all the round 'cells' in the grid have been destroyed using the beam. It's deflected by a series of rotating mirrors and sent through a series of objects (converters, refractors, etc).

Whatever you do, don't let it overload by reflecting into itself - and watch out for the gremlins!

Maff

Deflektor

Here we are with another of my weaknesses - puzzle games. We've had our fair share of decent puzzles recently, what with Oops and Bombuzal. Now, after a long wait Gremlin have converted Deflektor to the Amiga.

The action's fairly straightforward and easy to get into, with nicely defined and coloured graphics. The sound is OK, if a little repetitive (you can't turn it off) but the real problem is that it's just a bit too easy - I managed to get to level 43 on my first go.

It's still a great puzzle game though, and definitely deserves the attention of puzzle fans.

Gordo

Deflektor

I'm the first to enjoy a good puzzle game (well, that's if Kati and Maff don't get there first) and Deflektor gives the impression that it's going to be a cracker.

The graphics are very tidy indeed filling the screen with colourful sprites, but the sound could be better - it seems to go on and on and on... The game itself is easy to pick up thanks to the obvious objectives and well implemented control method, but the thing is that it *stays* easy.

I managed to plough through too many levels too quickly. Hard luck Gremlin, but in my view Deflektor is just that bit too boring.

Verdict

Presentation 61%
Good layout and a great control system, but little in the way of options.

Graphics 75%
Clear and concise with nicely coloured sprites and borders.

Sound 33%
A boppy tune which very quickly becomes annoying.

Hookability 87%
Very easy to get into and compulsive for a while.

Lastability 46%
Shouldn't take too long for experienced puzzlers to complete the game.

Overall 68%
Not a bad puzzle game, but it shouldn't be as easy as it is.