Commodore User


Biggles

Author: Richard Bradbury
Publisher: Mirrorsoft
Machine: Commodore 64

 
Published in Commodore User #34

Biggles

Biggles is here. What do you mean, boo? So you've already seen the film. Well, maybe the game will be a little better.

Anyway, here's the story. Biggles is sitting peacefully at home (probably reading Commodore User) when - kappow! - he is transported to 1917 where he's sitting in a two seater bi-plane with Jim. By the way, Jim is Biggles' 'time-twin' who's also been transported.

Between them, they must fly across enemy territory to locate and photograph "the weapon". Obviously they're constantly under attack from enemy field guns and menacing, mean and merciless Captain Erich von Stalhein (boo, hiss). Our heroes have only two bombs to begin with but can get more by hitting enemy weapon dumps.

Biggles

If the plane is shot down (which it frequently is) Biggles and Jim are transported to '86 where they must climb and jump across London rooftops patrolled by SAS guards. You control either one or the other player, changing control from one to another to avoid the guards. There are also a few sniper firing at you from windows. Luckily they don't fire straight ahead, only at angles. One hit and they're back to 1917 on a First World War battlefield.

Here, Jim or Biggles (I can't tell which) must battle his way past the enemy to find the 'weapon' test site. This section reminds me a little of Rambo or Commando - one man's efforts against a whole army. The screen is split in two showing the ground itself as well as the underground caves and trenches. You climb down ladders into the trenches to collect grenades for lobbing at the enemy pill-boxes.

Again, if you're hit you're back to the bi-plane - and so it goes on. I think sections appear randomly but you must complete them in order: bi-plane, London rooftops and then the battlefield. The latter two can't be completed until you've finished the first.

Biggles

Below the actions screen are three symbols - a plane, a bag and a helicopter - corresponding to the three sections. Each gradually disintegrates when Biggles is in danger. The game ends when one of these symbols is completely gone.

One bonus is that side two of the tape contains a helicopter simulator in which Biggles is seized by a 1986 helicopter and is transported back to 1917. Here you must locate and destroy the 'secret weapon', picking up spies, guns and ammunition on the way to help you.

Graphics for both sides of the game are pretty blocky and not very special, and the music (which plays throughout) is mediocre. But the game itself is fun to play, although the constant switching between sections may annoy some people.

Richard Bradbury

Other Commodore 64 Game Reviews By Richard Bradbury


  • Ark Pandora Front Cover
    Ark Pandora
  • Zub Front Cover
    Zub