Ratings and Reviews by jgerrie

The source code for this game seems to be standard Applesoft Basic code put up as an example program for a Javascript version of that Venerable 8-bit computer language. The source code is very well written and the game is very challenging. The parser is able to handle two-word commands and also some more complex sentences for more complex tasks. Some things to be aware of: It doesn't accept short-form commands except for the directions--So "INV" wont work for INVENTORY, for example. Also it uses the convention of "TAKE" instead of "GET" and does not support many synonyms, although "READ" and "EXAMINE" will do much the same things. The clues are very thorough and there are no instances of completely arbitrary deaths. All risks can be foreseen if clues and descriptions are read carefully. A very interesting concept that leaves you wondering--who exactly was uncle Tays?

A walkthrough is available at:
Basic Programming on the TRS-80 MC-10

This game lives up to its name "Teeny Tiny Text Adventure." Its size is probably due to the fact that it was developed on the TRS-100 Model 100, one of the first truly portable computers and a favourite of journalists around the world. Despite its size it provides a solid feeling of adventure. The main puzzle is a bit vexing, but can be solved with some diligent searching.

The Search for the Lost Dutchman's Gold, like so many Basic 8-Bit adventures relies heavily on stereotypes and clichés. Some of these are directed towards native people, but in the overall scheme of the well-worn plot and old-west scenario they are to be expected. Such concerns aside, the plot actually holds together quite well. The most appealing aspect of the adventure is the pseudo miner-49-speak that "yer" guide uses to convey information about your progress. It's kinda half way between pirate-speak and cowboy-lingo, both of which most people are proficient enough in such that it's not likely to present many problems of comprehension. There are no completely arbitrary deaths. You'll have to make some fairly obvious misjudgments to get yourself "dun'in." The puzzles are challenging and coherent. The game would definitely benefit from a game save feature. The MC-10 version I ported and played from a PC version didn't have one, but other versions apparently have them. My version fixes what I believe are some problems with the "mule" interactions of the PC version.

Greg Hassett was a prolific maker of 8-bit Basic text adventures. This entry into the category of "haunted house crawl" has some of Hassett's signature features, including a countdown timer which unleashes random appearances of some deadly adversaries. The game provides a wide variety of locations, which does provide a good sense of exploration, but there is such a disparate variety of plot elements drawn together that it becomes extremely difficult to maintain one's belief in the narrative.

The Treasure of Elgon Adventure is at the top range of your early 8-bit Basic two-word parser games. The puzzles are challenging but not diabolical. There is the possibility of death, but it is not sudden. Nor is it completely arbitrary. The setting is medieval fantasy, but it is hard to get a sense of reality from the various locations and one dimensional characters you run across. The feel is more one of a dream locale or mild nightmare, or perhaps something akin to Alice in Wonderland. If you're someone who can be content with a Basic two-word parser, this is one you should definitely try.