Games developed by Sphere, Inc.
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Falcon 3.0
Falcon 3.0, released in 1991 by Spectrum HoloByte, is a military flight simulator game for DOS that revolutionized the genre with its realistic graphics, complex gameplay, and attention to detail. This critically acclaimed game was the third installment in the Falcon series and quickly became a fan favorite among gamers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
One of the most striking features of Falcon 3.0 was its cutting-edge graphics for its time. The game used advanced 3D modeling, making the landscapes and aircrafts look incredibly realistic. The attention to detail was unmatched, with every switch and button in the cockpit being fully functional, providing players with an immersive experience. The game also offered different display options, including a full-screen cockpit view and a bird's eye view, giving players a complete control over their flight experience.
In addition to its impressive graphics, Falcon 3.0 also set itself apart from other flight simulator games with its complex and realistic gameplay. Players were required to learn and master the intricacies of combat aviation, including weapons systems, radar, and communication techniques. The game also offered a dynamic mission generator, creating a different experience every time a player entered a mission. This added an element of surprise and challenge, keeping players engaged and entertained for hours on end.
Moreover, Falcon 3.0 was also known for its attention to detail in terms of aircraft models and weapons systems. The game featured a wide range of aircrafts, from fighter jets to bombers, each with its own unique characteristics and capabilities. Players could also customize their aircrafts with different weapons and loadouts, making each mission feel like a new challenge. The developers also incorporated real-world data and information, ensuring that the game was as authentic as possible.
Another noteworthy aspect of Falcon 3.0 was its multiplayer mode, which allowed players to compete against each other or work together to complete missions. This added a whole new level of excitement to the game, as players could test their skills against others or join forces and tackle missions together. This feature was particularly popular among military and aviation enthusiasts, who enjoyed the realistic and strategic gameplay.
Falcon A.T.
Essentially Falcon 2, but somehow marketed differently, Falcon AT is the second release in Spectrum Holobyte's revolutionary Falcon series of hard-core flight sims. Despite popular belief that Falcon 3.0 was THE dawn of modern flight simulators, Falcon AT is actually a huge leap over Falcon, with crisp EGA graphics, and plenty of realistic options and greatly expanded campaigns. The game remains the modern air combat simulation, with excellent tutorials, varied missions, and precise flight dynamics that Falcon fans have come to know and love. Among its many innovations are amazing multiplayer options, including hot seat and modem. Largely forgotten now, Falcon AT serves to explain the unexplained gap between Falcon and Falcon 3.0.
Undoubtedly a groundbreaking simulation in every respect, and a must-have for any armchair pilot. two thumbs up!
Stunt Driver
Stunt Driver is a Spectrum Holobyte stunt car simulator with a 1966 Shelby Mustang ready for you to drive to perfection. The game is very similar to Distinctive Software's Stunts, both in design and premise, although it is not as popular.
There are several tracks to race on, ranging from an oval training track to more complicated stunt tracks with loops, bridge jumps, etc. As in Stunts, the game also offers a track editor that allows you to design your own challenges. On each track you will have to qualify by beating a certain time in training mode, which will allow you to enter a race with up to 3 computer-controlled opponents. But there is also the option to connect another computer to play against a friend (via modem, cable or network), something not found in the more popular Stunts. The graphics are fine for their time, as are the controls, but one of the best things in technical terms is the excellent sound, even through the old PC speaker. During the race, there are several views to quickly see what's going on behind or to the left of you, and the VCR-like recorder lets you review your race later.
Overall, Stunt Driver is a fun game that certainly deserves as much attention as the better known and better selling Stunts (although admittedly inferior). Unfortunately, the game has many problems on modern computers. A slowdown utility is a must for anything faster than a 486, as the game clock and computer opponents won't work if your computer is too fast. Highly recommended, especially in multiplayer mode.
Super Tetris
Super Tetris, released in 1991, is a classic DOS game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. Originally developed by Spectrum Holobyte, this addictive puzzle game puts players in the shoes of a block-stacking master, as they must quickly and accurately stack various blocks in order to clear lines. The game features an intuitive interface and easy-to-learn controls, making it accessible to even novice gamers.
Super Tetris is set in a classic 8x8 grid, and players must move and rotate blocks in order to fit them into the given shape. As the blocks are stacked, the lines are filled, and once the lines are completely filled, they are cleared and the player is rewarded with points. The game also has several different power-ups, such as bombs, which can be used to clear lines quickly. There is also a time limit, which adds to the challenge and keeps players on their toes.
The game also features several different modes, including a two-player mode, which allows players to challenge each other in a race to clear lines. The game also features a practice mode, which allows players to hone their skills without the pressure of having to compete against other players. Additionally, Super Tetris features an in-game store, where players can purchase additional power-ups and items to use in the game.
Super Tetris is a classic DOS game that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet engaging gameplay, combined with its various modes and power-ups, make it a must-play for puzzle game fans. Its accessibility and timelessness make it a game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels.
Tank: The M1A1 Abrams Battle Tank Simulation
Tank is a modern tank simulator that showcases Spectrum Holobyte's strength in ultra-realistic simulation, although it never quite reached the level of acclaim that Falcon 3. 0 achieved. Tank is similar to Microprose's best-selling M-1 Tank Platoon in its realistic modeling of modern tanks, intuitive interface, and integration of strategic elements with first-person action.
Although it is a simulation of the M1A1 Abrams like Damon Slye's excellent Abrams Battle Tank, it places much more emphasis on strategy and larger unit operations than on graphical realism. Although there are only 5 missions, each is packed with vast terrain, plenty of enemy tanks to destroy, and wargame-like options such as reconnaissance and air support. The training mission eases the player into the game interface, and the strategic options add a fun dimension to what could have been a normal 3D tank simulation.
The graphics are good, and the ability to zoom in (to the 3D interface) and out (to the strategic map) is innovative and well executed. The uneven terrain, however, still presents logistical problems, as with many tank sims of the era, but Tank has enough to satisfy both the sim fan and the wargamer interested in hands-on experience inside a tank.
Vette!
Vette! is a racing simulation game that was released for DOS in 1989. Developed and published by Sphere Inc., it quickly gained popularity amongst gaming enthusiasts for its realistic gameplay and graphics. The game allows players to experience the thrill of driving a high-performance sports car through the streets of San Francisco. It was one of the first games to feature a detailed and accurate virtual recreation of a real-world city.
The premise of the game is straightforward – players begin with a limited budget and have to purchase a used car in order to participate in various races around San Francisco. As they win races and earn money, players can upgrade their car or even purchase a new one. The ultimate goal is to become the reigning champion of the city's street racing scene.
One of the most impressive aspects of Vette! is its attention to detail. The game features a variety of real-life car models such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Ferrari Testarossa, and Lamborghini Countach. Each car has its own unique performance and handling characteristics, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay. The game also perfectly captures the look and feel of San Francisco, with its iconic landmarks and winding streets.
The gameplay itself is a combination of arcade-style racing and simulation. Players have to navigate through traffic, obey traffic signals, and go against opponents in exhilarating races. The races take place on different tracks, each with its own challenges and obstacles. Whether it's over a steep hill or through a busy intersection, players must have quick reflexes and precise driving skills to come out on top.
Another notable feature of Vette! is its soundtrack, which complements the gameplay perfectly. The game's soundtrack features a mix of upbeat songs that add to the adrenaline-pumping experience of racing through the city streets. The sound effects are also top-notch, from the rumble of car engines to the screeching of tires, making the gameplay even more immersive.
Despite being released over three decades ago, Vette! still holds up as an enjoyable and challenging racing game. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its attention to detail, make it a timeless classic. The game also spawned several sequels, solidifying its place in the DOS gaming world.
