Solomon’s Key: February featured game
Solomon’s Key is a single player arcade/strategy platformer conversion from the arcade game of the same name.
The aim of the game is to escape each level by collecting a key to unlock the exit. You are equipped with a magic wand which can be used to create or destroy blocks to help you do this. To reach the key you will need to arrange blocks so you can move yourself around enemies. To stop you reaching your goal there are various enemies roaming around each level. There are fairies to save while attempting to collect your key and reach the exit. You can rescue fairies by collecting the bells. If you think that sounds a little too easy then you should know there is also a time limit for each level so, while you’re working out the best path in your head the timer is ticking down.
Gameplay
The Spectrum version is an excellent attempt at an arcade conversion and really does it justice. The gameplay is identical to the arcade version and offers a lot of playability. The further you venture into the game, the more frustrating it can be trying to figure out a way around the enemies to collect the key and rescue fairies before making it to the exit; all while keeping one eye on the clock.
Graphics
The graphics are smooth and offer a small amount of colour without any of the obvious colour clash the Spectrum is usually famous for. Clearly put together without flicker the sprites are crisp and a respectable size.
Sound
Beyond the title screen there is very little music in the game although what music there is during levels is faithful to the arcade version. The sound effects are there and, again, come from the arcade version. For a 48K machine the title music is done well. I think the potential was there for a 128K version with level music but alas that didn’t happen.
| Gameplay: |  (4.0 / 5) |
| Graphics: |  (3.5 / 5) |
| Sound: |  (2.0 / 5) |
| Final Score: |  (3.2 / 5) |
Publisher: US Gold Ltd
Release Year: 1987
Players: 1
Genre: Arcade: Platform
System: Spectrum 48K
Controls:
-
- Redefinable Keys
- Interface II
- Kempston
