Game Review - Lode Runner: Legend of the Seven Stars
Lode Runner is an addictive puzzle-platform adventure game, originally released by Broderbund Computer Entertainment Software in 1983. The game-play mechanics of Lode Runner are very much similar to that of the Space Panic from decades ago. In addition, it includes a nice little story line, and several different endings depending on how you complete the game. Lode Runner: Legend of the Seven Stars follows the life of bounty hunter Jody who falls out of a sky-orbit crash. Here, you play the role of a space traveler who must find his way back to earth while battling a series of aliens, creatures and the occasional tough guy.
The game is very much like a mixture of adventure, platforming, puzzle and action, using mainly, but not exclusively, the elements of lightheartedness, humor, and excitement. Each level of the game comes with its own special challenges and goals, and once you complete each level you unlock a new star, thus advancing your game status. There are two main weapons in the game: the pistol and the bow. The bow has many types of upgrades, such as increasing the power of the arrows and the reload speed. The enemies are also very well drawn and have excellent AI, which makes them really feel like they are on another world, unlike the bland and quite plain enemies seen in other similar video games. Other additions that could be considered for this game are the hidden items, the star wheel and the time management techniques.
Although the enemies are not as varied as the ones in other Lode Runner games, the enemies do enough to provide a challenge to players. The unique aspect of Lode Runner: Legend of the Seven Stars is the different environments you traverse through, all depicting places found in the original Lode Runner film, which are based mostly on desert terrain. These areas are also filled with traps, puzzles and obstacles which must be overcome before moving on to the next level.
