jcfst@unix.cis.pitt.edu (John C. Fossum) (11/17/89)
I recently picked up PowerDrome by Electronic Arts. The screen
shots looked ominous and I later realized when I played the game that
the looks were not decieving. The game involves picking from 6 different
vector rendered tracks that are similar in design as luge snow tracks
but you are in a hovercraft-type spaceship. The tracks and atmospheres
are varied as some go underground, some having sulfur,methane, ammonia,
or oxygen atmospheres and unexpected weather conditions arise (ie.
thunderstorms with lightning). Damage is measured on the window
interface as you fly through these courses and qualify against 4 other
crafts. Engine burnup and fuel consumption is also measured for your
ship can kick in its afterburners (LOOK OUT!). A force field device can
keep your ship in a reasonable center of the track for steering is pretty
difficult without it. Autopilot is optional. Pitstops are needed to
repair damage as you side warp out of the track into the pit area as
you replace nosecones, refuel, replace wings and burned out engines and
fine tune your craft (meaning having the option of using Economy, Nitro,
or Super Nitro Burning gas; wing lengths on rudders for banking and stopping;
as well as some other goodies). The game runs incredibly fast and sounds
as well as playabilty are great. Joystick control takes some getting used
to but mouse and keyboard control is optional. High scores are recorded
and winners get to see a win ceremony. For a fast paced vector graphic game
that puts you on the edge of your seat, this has all the ingredients
to keep you riveted. Siskel & Ebert-=> 2 thumbs up!
-THIS IS NOT A COMMERCIAL PLUG. I'M JUST VOICING MY OPINION.-
-Steve M. Suhy