Commodore User


Blast Off With Basic Games For Your Vic 20

Author: Kevin Bergin
Publisher: Prentice-Hall
Machine: Commodore Vic 20

 
Published in Commodore User #14

Blast Off With Basic Games For Your Vic 20

A games book for the Vic with 25 playable games. Ah yes you say, but what about the errors in the book, as with other games listings? Yes, I did find some errors, but nothing serious enough to put me off. The problem seemed to be that the programs had been typeset, although the introduction claims they were reproduced directly from a daisywheel printer. All the Vic's symbols have been replaced with abbreviations and each game comes with an explanation of the program.

There are nine arcade games, some of them have a joystick option. One draw routine that uses a joystick, a decipher game, a piano keyboard tutor and a clever game called Mixup, is just a sample of the delights included.

There is a flowchart for each game which is very useful and is a nice touch, especially if you decide to adapt the program or you just want to find out exactly what's going on. There are a couple of games that require expansion, but any expansion will do. All games that are not for the 3.5K Vic or those that use a joystick are clearly marked. The range of programs covers most types of games.

The book is an American import and this is reflected in the price. Despite that, this book is worth a look if you really are interested in games and eventually want to write your own. All of the programs work (eventually!) and are easy enough to enter and follow.

Kevin Bergin