| Alchemist | |
|---|---|
Screenshot of Spectrum version |
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| Developer(s) | Ian Weatherburn |
| Publisher(s) | Imagine Software |
| Platform(s) | ZX Spectrum |
| Release date(s) | 1983 |
| Genre(s) | Action-adventure |
| Mode(s) | Single player |
| Media/distribution | Cassette |
Alchemist is a computer game developed by Ian Weatherburn for the ZX Spectrum and released by Imagine Software in 1983. It is an action-adventure video game in which the player controls an alchemist who may transform into a golden eagle.
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Alchemist was authored by Ian Weatherburn and Paul Lindale, and was Imagine's first arcade adventure.[1] This release was also the first piece of software to be released on a gold-coloured cassette and box.[2]
The player controls a skilled alchemist, who has been summoned to defeat an evil warlock. The game takes place in the warlock's castle, with the objective of finding four pieces of a magic scroll. This will allow the alchemist to use the "Spell of Destruction" to defeat the warlock.
The alchemist can transform into a golden eagle, requiring the use of spell energy. Transforming between the two is essential to completing the game: The alchemist can hurl lightning bolts and other spells, but the eagle form is required to negotiate steep hills or drops.[3] The alchemist can only carry one item at a time and food needs to be found during the game to keep stamina levels up. Movement, bumping into objects, or transforming depletes stamina.[3] Fighting monsters also reduces stamina although this can be mitigated by carrying an axe or sword.[3]
Alchemist was critically well received on release. Its atmosphere and play style drew comparisons with Atic Atac.[2][3] Sinclair User highlighted Alchemist's cartoon graphics and storyline.[2] CRASH praised the game's presentation, graphics and "spooky organ tune". While the exploration of the castle was a draw for one reviewer, overall opinions about the game's addictiveness was mixed.[3] In CRASH's 1984 retrospective, it was felt that the graphics in Alchemist, whilst detailed, had not aged well. The jerky scrolling and poor keyboard layout, and lack of replayability were also criticised.[1] Your Spectrum highlighted the alchemist character's graphic, and his eagle transformation animation.[4]