Elixir (video game)

Elixir

Developer(s) Richard Williams, John Llewellyn, Chris Hyde
Publisher(s) Superior Software
Platform(s) Acorn Electron, BBC Micro
Release date(s) 1987
Genre(s) Platform game, Puzzle game
Mode(s) Single-player
Distribution cassette, floppy disk

Elixir is a computer game for the Acorn Electron and BBC Micro released in 1987 by Superior Software. It is an arcade adventure platform game in which the player takes the role of a shrunken scientist.

Gameplay

Laboratory's shelves, navigated by Cyril to the lower right (BBC Micro)

The story follows a scientist, named Cyril, who accidentally manages to shrink himself. In order to restore him to his normal size the player has to navigate their way around the laboratory, collecting vitamin pills and finding the elixir of the title.[1]

Release

The game was released in 1987 for the Acorn Electron and BBC Micro on a wide variety of media. It was available on cassette and 5.25" DFS floppy disk as well as ADFS 3.5" disk for the Acorn Electron Plus 3 and Master Compact. It was included on the Play It Again Sam 5 compilation in 1988 and also re-released in 1990 as part of the Superior/Blue Ribbon budget range.

Critical reception

Elixir was not as widely praised as other Superior releases. When reviewing the PIAS 5 compilation, Electron User found the game lacking compared to the "superb" Imogen (also on the compilation), saying "Elixir is an arcade adventure that originates from the opposite end of the quality spectrum".[2] Acorn User said "The logical puzzles are well thought out... and give players something to get their teeth into".[3]

References

  1. Dave Edwards (2007-08-01). "Elixir". The Complete Electron Games Guide.
  2. "Continuing Compilations", Carol Barlow, Electron User #6.5, February 1989
  3. Play It Again Sam 4 inlay, Superior Software, 1988