Zzap


Eye
By Endurance Games
Commodore 64/128

 
Published in Zzap #34

Eye | JR | SJ | Verdict

Eye

The computer version of Eye follows the structure and content of the board game, but provides a computer opponent to pit your wits against.

The action is played on a 'board' of 32 coloured sections, formed by two opposing sets of spirals lying within a circle. Rotating the spirals creates a shifting Moire pattern and causes different coloured sections to appear in one of four set patterns.

To win the game, a player must place a specified number of counters in the corresponding colour sections on the board. The number of counters used depends upon the number of players, and the program accounts for between one and four participants, either human or electronic.

JR

Eye

The Eye packaging is certainly the best I've ever seen on a computer game - but unfortunately the game itself is dire. The graphics are very bland, and there's absolutely no feeling of movement when the spirals are twiddled.

It's very easy to beat the computer opponents (two people did it first go!) and there's nothing to sustain interest or excitement. Replace the computer opponents with real people, and things get a little more exciting - but in that case, why not buy the real game, which is better packaged, and only a few pounds dearer?

As a computer game, Eye is a pretentious, dull and overpriced 'concept'.

SJ

Eye

The unusual board game might be the "game of the decade" (I personally have thoughts to the contrary) but I soon became bored with this version.

The main disadvantage with Eye is that you cannot see the spirals move around the board which makes the game very confusing to follow - most early victories were more courtesy of lady luck than anything else!

There's a distinct sequence of moves which may be used against a solo computer opponent, enabling you to win almost every time without fail. And not only is the computer easy to beat, but it's also a poor strategist, making moves that allow the other computer players to win. Without a decent on-board opponent, this version is pretty superfluous - you may as well buy the board game and call rent-a-friend.

Verdict

Presentation 80%
Great packaging, and the game is well set out - the computer opponents are very poor though.

Graphics 41%
The graphics are simple, clear and functional.

Sound 54%
Raucous beeps and blips signal the completion of manoeuvres or the inability to move spirals. Average title tune.

Hookability 42%
Although the game's structure is quite simple, it will appear confusing at first.

Lastability 28%
Familiarisation with the game quickly displays the ease with which computer opponents can be beaten.

Overall 32%
An underwhelming and poorly implemented version of the board game at a ridiculously high price.

Eye | JR | SJ | Verdict