Computer Gamer


Knight Games
By English
Amstrad CPC464

 
Published in Computer Gamer #16

Knight Games

Knight Games is a collection of medieval combat games in which you can compete against human or computer opponents.

Each fight can be over 5, 10 or 15 minutes, which is represented by a candle that slowly burns down during the bout. Within that time you must stab, hit, thump and generally abuse your opponent with a variety of weapons. In the two swordfight events (logically called swordfight 1 and swordfight 2), eight joystick-controlled movements allow you to attack your opponent and defend yourself from sword blows. Each time you make contact, an impressive metallic clunk is heard as one of ten roses is lost. Lose ten roses and you lose a shield. Lose ten shields and the game is lost.

The Pikestaff, Quarterstaff, ball and shain and axe events all have a similar idea but wth subtly different moves including my favourite quarterstaff move when you lean on the stick and kick him with both feet.

Knight Games

The archery and crossbow events are not only tests of skill but also races against time as you have to hit as many moving targets within the time limit.

The archer must hit wooden horses that trundle between distant trees whereas revolving targets are the aim for the crossbow.

It is the detail of the graphics that makes Knight Games stand out from the other combat games. Each event features superb animation on incredible backdrops with each screen completed by the wax that dribbles down the burning candle.