Damocles
| Developer: Novagen | Graphics: |
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| Publisher: Novagen | Sound: |
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| Year: 1990 | Difficulty: |
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| Genre: Adventure | Lastability: |
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| Number of players: 1 | Rating: |
7/10 | |
Also known as Mercenary 2, this sequel picks up where the story left off in Mercenary. After a slight setback and an unintended stop on Targ, you finally reach your intended destination: Eris … but four years late (ironically, that’s how long it took to develop this game!).
You’re scheduled to meet with the planet’s president to offer your assistance. A comet, aptly named Damocles, is on the verge of colliding with Eris. If you accept the mission, you have three hours to resolve the situation (otherwise, brace yourself!).
The game plays exactly like its predecessor, set in a larger universe (the area to explore now spans an entire planetary system). Vector-based 3D has given way to “solid surfaces” (those polygons we loved), but the interface remains practically unchanged, as do the sound effects (after four years of development, I find this a bit lame).
And, like before, the grand world-saving mission is just an excuse to explore vast, flat, empty … and inert lands, but all in complete freedom. However, be aware that there are several ways to complete the mission, and the game continues well after its “resolution”.
There are many secret things and fun references to discover for those who are curious and patient. However, if you’re looking for animation and action, go somewhere else.
Controls:
“R” to run/walk, “B” to enter a vehicle, “L” to exit, a number key to change speed or choose a floor in an elevator. Objects are manipulated using the arrows (don’t use them to emulate a joystick!): “up” to pick up; “down” to throw; “left”, “right”, and “Enter” to select.
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