I think Digital Eclipse is onto something with its Gold Master Series.
The company launched its first entry back in August with the ferocious Making of Karateka, which dove into the history of the beloved Jordan Mechner classic. It was so good that I was already wondering who they would cover next – and now we know.
Today marks the arrival of Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story, which takes a closer look into the iconic (and somewhat oddball) career of the designer. It features a number of his games, including Tempest 2000, Gridrunner, Akka Arrh and more, all while delivering detailed history notes, interviews and so much more.
This isn’t just a tremendously cool history lesson, but an interactive one. And the more we get like this, the better.
Getting To Know Jeff
What’s awesome about the Gold Master Series is that it usually leaves no stone unturned covering its historic subject. That’s the case with Llamasoft, as you learn all about Minter’s inspirations with game-making, and so much more. There are quotes, video clips and so much more to unearth, where you closely get more and more into his mind. So, yeah, watch out for yaks and llamas.
It’s done significantly well, like Karateka, and carries its own vibe that lets you rediscover some nifty retro games. Obviously Tempest 2000 is the biggest draw here, but other titles are waiting to be discovered, and a good portion of them are a blast.
The way history intertwines with playability here is beyond impressive, and there’s a lot to do. A number of Minter’s titles are included here, wonderfully emulated by Digital Eclipse with a number of options. What’s more, you get the demo for Attack of the Mutant Camels ’89, which you can finally try. It’s as weird as you expect, but also well worth the play.
Not to mention the thrilling Gridrunner: Remastered, which is a highly enjoyable game in its own right. This alone makes the package worth the purchase, but don’t take my word for it. Dig in.
There are some missing titles, like Defender 2000 (rights issues, so I get it), but otherwise this comprehensive package covers all the bases very well. And the history side will keep you enthralled as well, as you learn more and more about this delightful madman. (That’s a compliment, by the way.)
Once Again, The Presentation Rules
Another thing about the Gold Master Series is how professionally put together it is. The interactive menus are rather easy to skim through, and you can actually find fun little oddball facts if you dig deep enough. Digital Eclipse has been nailing this presentation aspect since the days of Atari 50, so it’s nice to see them keeping up the trend.
As for the video, it’s wonderfully emulated. Along with the menus, the games are true to their source material. Some running choppier than others (that’s age for you), but I can’t fault this work in the least. It’s impeccable, accurate and a blast to both play and watch. (You try to watch a game with mutant camels and try to keep the smile from growing on your face.)
In addition, the sound is terrific as well. Not every game has a banging soundtrack, but the sound effects will take you back to the good ol’ days. It’s also fun to hear Minter and others wax nostalgic on classic game development and other subjects. It’s a bit surprising there aren’t more llama noises (do they make much noise), but I digress.
Llama History In the Making
Just as Karateka was a must-have last year, Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story is a must-own for you historians, as well as those that truly love classic gaming. With the variety of games here and discoverable history, there’s a ton to do; and it’s all handled very well with a smooth presentation.
These guys just keep getting better with each new entry in the Gold Master Series. I can’t wait to see what’s next. In the meantime, get in there and enjoy some Gridrunner and Tempest. For the camels!
GAMERHUB RATING: FOUR (out of FIVE) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Emily and the team at Digital Eclipse for the review codes!
