Turmoil (1984 video game)

Turmoil

Developer(s) David Turner
Publisher(s) Bug-Byte
Platform(s) ZX Spectrum, MSX
Release date(s) 1984
Genre(s) Platform game
Mode(s) Single player
Distribution Compact Cassette

Turmoil is a computer game released in 1984 for the ZX Spectrum, and in 1986 for the MSX[1] by Bug Byte.

The player takes control of Mechanic Mick who has been employed by a rich Arabian Sheikh. the Sheikh has refused to pay Mick for work done, so Mick decides to steal his collection of expensive cars in lieu of payment. He must build the cars by collecting oil from a dripping oil tank. The oil can also be used as an offensive weapon against the pursuing Arabian guards.[2]

Gameplay

In-game animation taken from ZX Spectrum version

The playing area consists of a number of platforms, ladders, conveyor belts and swinging ropes which Mick must negotiate. First he must collect an oil can, which he must take to a tap which is dripping oil. The oil that has been collected must be taken to the garage. Once there Mick can empty his can, a drop at a time, to fill his car. The car is invisible initially, and is built up as each drop of oil is deposited. On the first level the car is a Mini, but as on subsequent levels the cars become more sleek and expensive.[3]

Also present on each level are a number of enemies (resembling Arabs) who will attack Mick and cause him to lose a life. Unlike other platform games, the main character cannot jump by himself, but must fall onto one of the springs which are present on each level to bounce to a different platform. The Arabs will also make use of the ladders, ropes and springs.[4]

Reception

Reviews were overwhelmingly positive. CRASH gave the game 90% (a "CRASH Smash"),[3] while Your Spectrum called it a "Hit" with 3.5/5.[4]

Dave Nicholls of Your Spectrum said that "The springs are a great idea.",[4] and CRASH called it a "slick, well executed program".[3]

Retrogaming website Retro View, despite commenting on the politically incorrect nature of using Arabs as enemies, claims that "when it comes to pure, fun-filled platforming on the speccy, they don't come much better than Turmoil - the 'It's a Knockout' of 8-bit videogaming" and decided that "Turmoil earned a Crash Smash on its release, and in my opinion, it was well deserved." giving it an overall rating of 93%.[5]

Remake

In 2002 an unofficial version for Microsoft Windows was developed by Steven Watson and Ric Lumb for Space-time Games. In the new version, named Turmoil PC, the "Arabs" are replaced by robots.[6]

References

  1. ↑ http://www.generation-msx.nl/msxdb/softwareinfo/2682
  2. ↑ Mortimer, June (January 1985), "Soft Spot: Turmoil", Sinclair Programs
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Turmoil Review", CRASH, December 1984
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Nicholls, Dave; Willis, Roger (February 1985), "Turmoil Review", Your Spectrum
  5. ↑ "Turmoil Review". Retro View. Retrieved 2008-03-14.
  6. ↑ "Turmoil PC". Retrieved 2008-03-14.

External links