Crash


Spectipede
By Mastertronic
Spectrum 16K/48K

 
Published in Crash #8

Spectipede

There's little to surprise in this game - the name says it all. Spectipede offers the full scope of the arcade original with centipedes, spiders, fleas, scorpions, mushrooms and poisonous mushrooms. On higher levels, there are two centipedes to contend with. The players may move the firing base upwards for the traditional four squares to avoid segments of pede which make it to the bottom. Segments will also fall straight to the bottom if they pass over a poisonous mushroom. Specipede may be played by one or two players.

Comment 1

It's odd to see that the cheapest 'Centipede' type game available for the Spectrum is also the best of all those around. Graphics are excellent, true to the original arcade version; they are clear, very detailed, well animated and have excellent use of colour. The keys are well positioned and movement is responsive and fast.

This is clearly a well thought out game with good demo, instructions and sound. It's worth every penny of £1.99 - a Mastertronic winner.

Comment 2

Spectipede

There are so many versions of the venerable creepy about that it's hard to see why anyone should want to put out any more. However, this is the cheapest around, and it's certainly up with the best and most expensive.

It has all the proper details and fast moving graphics. The scorpion even flashes different colours - not much seen on the Spectrum. As to the game itself, well when it's well done, as here, 'Centipede' games are still a good, fast and ennervating shoot-'em-up worth anyone's half hour between times.

Comment 3

A good 'Centipede' can be very addictive to play, and Mastertronic have a very good version here. The only thing is that the game is so old hat now, I wonder whether anyones that interested any more? But if you are, than at its price, this is certainly the one to buy.

For once, a low price provides a good version, but I think the price also reflects the age of the game itself.

Comments

Control Keys: CAPS/Z left/right, K/M up/down, L to fire, or cursor keys and 0 or 9 to fire.
Joystick: Mikro-Gen, Kempston, Cursor type
Keyboard Play: Sensible keys and responsive
Use of Colour: Very good
Graphics: Small, one-character size, but detailed and fast
Sound: Very good, continuous
Skill Levels: Progressive difficulty
Lives: Three
General Rating: We suspect a re-release, but if you haven't got a 'Centipede' type game in your collection, well worth its price.