Games published by Artic Computing Ltd
Select a publisher to browse its games.
We provide a complete list of games published by this publisher.
1K ZX Chess
The classic 1K ZX Chess was released in 1982 for the ZX81 computer. It was the first home computer ever created on which a game of chess could be played. As the title suggests, the program was created in 1 kilobyte of memory, giving a new level of playability to the traditional game of chess.
When 1K ZX Chess was first released, it was the only chess game available for a home computer. Players were able to partake in a game of the centuries-old mental sport from the comfort of their living rooms. The simplistic 8x8 game board was displayed in black and white lower resolution graphics, with simple command style input to capture pieces and make moves.
The game was programmed by British computer Scientist, Michael Flear-Penton, who had worked at Sinclair Research and had helped create the Spectrum ZX with Clive Sinclair. He had been involved in creating many software applications for the ZX81 and was keen to tackle the problem of creating a playable game of chess. He implemented a primitive form of Artificial Intelligence, which was able to learn from the player's actions and use them to make more intelligent moves.
1K ZX Chess was a huge success and was incredibly popular among the millions of ZX81 users. It proved to be an incredibly popular and challenging game to play against the computer. Many users mastered the simple chess moves and were elated when they were eventually able to beat the AI on the game.
The game has gone on to have a legacy that is still felt in the computer gaming industry. It ushered in a new age of computer gaming, with new AI technology becoming more mainstream. It demonstrated the far-reaching capabilities which small amounts of memory could achieve, paving the way for future development of classic games and new genre-defining titles.
1K ZX Chess will forever remain in the annals of computer gaming as one of the great and iconic titles. Its significance was further cemented when it was added to the World Video Game Hall of Fame and when a remake version was created for modern devices. The impact of the game is still felt by modern-day chess players, with the game remaining one of the favourite and most accessible titles to play.
Aladdin's Cave
In 1986, an incredibly popular game was released for the beloved ZX Spectrum computer: Aladdin's Cave. Developed by Elite Systems, this game took players on a thrilling adventure through a mysterious treasure-filled cave. With its simple yet addictive gameplay and impressive graphics, Aladdin's Cave captivated gamers of all ages.
The premise of the game is simple - players take on the role of a brave explorer searching for treasures hidden in a cave. But the cave is no ordinary one - it is full of traps, hazards, and tricky puzzles that players must navigate through to find the valuable treasure. Along the way, players must also avoid dangerous creatures and collect useful items to aid them on their journey.
One of the most impressive elements of Aladdin's Cave is its graphics. For a game released in 1986, the visuals are surprisingly detailed and vivid. The colors are bright and eye-catching, and each section of the cave is designed with intricate details. From the sparkling jewels to the realistic movement of the protagonist, everything in this game is visually stunning.
But Aladdin's Cave is not just a pretty game - it also offers challenging gameplay that will keep you on your toes. As you progress through the cave, the puzzles and traps become increasingly difficult, requiring quick reflexes and smart thinking. The inclusion of collectible items adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players must carefully manage their inventory and use items strategically to progress.
To add to the excitement, Aladdin's Cave also features a time limit. Players must find the treasure within a set time frame, adding a sense of urgency and adrenaline to the gameplay. This feature ensures that players are always on their toes, exploring the cave with both caution and haste.
Aladdin's Cave also boasts an impressive soundtrack, with catchy tunes and sound effects that perfectly complement the game's adventurous theme. The music changes with each section of the cave, adding to the immersive experience and keeping players engaged.
Bear Bovver
Bear Bovver, a charming and whimsical platform game, made its debut on the Commodore 64 in 1984. Developed by the talented team at Elite Systems, this delightful title quickly garnered attention for its unique blend of humor and engaging gameplay. Set in a vibrant and cartoonish world, players are invited to step into the shoes of a mischievous bear who must navigate various levels filled with challenges and comedic encounters. The premise revolves around the bear’s endeavors to collect honey while simultaneously dodging the threats posed by irritable bees and quirky enemies.
The gameplay mechanics of Bear Bovver are refreshingly simple yet fun, allowing players of all skill levels to dive right in. Armed with the ability to jump, run, and roll, players must traverse diverse environments, including forests, meadows, and urban settings. The levels are designed with a whimsical flair, featuring colorful graphics that were cutting-edge for the time. Each level presents a new set of obstacles, including pesky trees, swinging platforms, and clever traps that keep players on their toes. The urge to explore and find hidden secrets adds an extra layer of intrigue, making players eager to uncover all the surprises that this vibrant world has to offer.
One of the standout aspects of Bear Bovver is its humorous charm that permeates the entire experience. The game’s lighthearted tone is accentuated by its amusing character designs and quirky animations. From the bumbling bee enemies to the slapstick moments as the bear interacts with the environment, the game effortlessly evokes laughter. The playful graphics and delightful sound effects create an immersive atmosphere that enchants players, making them feel like they are part of a living cartoon.
Moreover, Bear Bovver introduced innovative elements that set it apart from other platformers of its era. The game featured a unique scoring system based on the collection of honey pots. Players were motivated not only by the joys of exploration but also by the prospect of achieving high scores, fostering a sense of competition and replayability. The balance of challenge and comedic relief kept audiences engaged and eager to retry levels for better results, establishing a loyal fanbase that appreciated its distinctive approach.
Despite its relatively simple premise and graphics, Bear Bovver becomes an endearing entry in the pantheon of retro games. It stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of its developers, who crafted an experience that resonates with both nostalgia and joy. Even today, enthusiasts of classic gaming cherish Bear Bovver for its quirky charm, strong gameplay mechanics, and the spirit of fun that it encapsulates. This whimsical adventure continues to capture the hearts of gamers, securing its legacy as a beloved treasure of the Commodore 64 era.
Big Ben Strikes Again
Big Ben Strikes Again was a ZX Spectrum game released in 1985 by Ocean Software. The game was a hybrid of a platformer and a maze game, with the goal of the player being to guide a character called Big Ben through a series of levels.
The game was set in a city in the late 19th century and featured a variety of levels including a bank, a museum, and a railway station. The player had to traverse each level and collect various items such as coins and gems, while avoiding various obstacles and enemies. The game included a variety of power-ups such as a jetpack and a shield, as well as bonus levels and secret areas.
The game was generally well-received by players and critics alike, with some praising its variety of levels and its challenging gameplay. The game was particularly praised for its visuals, which were praised for their use of bright colors and detailed sprites. The soundtrack for the game also received praise for its catchy tunes and its use of sound effects.
Overall, Big Ben Strikes Again was an enjoyable game for the ZX Spectrum. It featured a variety of levels, challenging gameplay, and impressive visuals and sound effects. It was a great example of the type of game that could be created on the ZX Spectrum, and is still remembered fondly today.
Connect 4
Connect 4 is a classic strategy game that was released in 1983 for the VIC-20 computer. Developed by Milton Bradley, it quickly became a household favorite and remains popular to this day. The objective of the game is simple: be the first player to connect four of your colored discs in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Though the rules may be easy to understand, the game is challenging and requires strategic thinking from players of all ages.
With its simple yet addictive gameplay, Connect 4 quickly gained widespread popularity in the 1980s. It was a hit among families and friends who enjoyed competing against each other in this intense and thrilling game. The game was also praised for its compact size, making it easy to store and transport. This made it a perfect game for road trips and family vacations, allowing people to challenge each other wherever they went.
One of the unique appeals of Connect 4 is its ability to be played by people of all ages. While it is often seen as a children's game, it has proven to be just as enjoyable for adults. In fact, it requires a great deal of strategy and critical thinking to win, making it a game of skill rather than luck. This has made it a popular choice for game nights and tournaments, where players can truly showcase their strategic abilities and outwit their opponents.
The game's success also spawned various adaptations and spin-offs, including versions for other gaming platforms such as the Nintendo Entertainment System and mobile devices. It has also been featured in popular culture, from television shows to movies, further solidifying its place in pop culture history. But despite the numerous technological advancements in gaming, the simplistic yet challenging nature of Connect 4 has ensured its longevity and continued popularity.
Apart from being a fun game to play, Connect 4 also has educational benefits. It helps to improve critical thinking skills, spatial awareness, and decision-making abilities. Research has also shown that regular play of strategic games like Connect 4 can have a positive impact on brain development and cognitive abilities. With its colorful design and engaging gameplay, it also helps to develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills in younger players.
Dimension Destructors
Dimension Destructors, released in 1983 by Mastertronic, is an action-packed video game for the ZX Spectrum. Players assume the role of a brave space warrior, tasked with saving the universe from an evil alien race. The object of the game is to travel through four different dimensions, each filled with different alien creatures, and destroy the enemy forces while avoiding their deadly weapons.
The game has a unique graphical style, with cartoon-like visuals and a colorful backdrop. The controls are fairly simple, with the player having to use the direction keys and the spacebar to move and shoot. The game also features several power-ups, such as shields and weapons, which can be collected throughout the levels. These power-ups are essential in order to successfully complete the game's various stages.
The game is divided into four distinct levels, each with their own set of enemies, hazards, and objectives. The levels range from a Space Station to an asteroid field and even a massive space ship. Each level has its own unique challenges, such as navigating through a maze of obstacles, dodging enemy fire, and destroying the various bosses.
The game has a good amount of replay value, as the levels are randomly generated, providing a different experience each time the game is played. The difficulty also increases as the player progresses through the levels, making the game challenging and rewarding.
Overall, Dimension Destructors is a great game for fans of classic arcade shooters. The action-packed gameplay, unique visuals, and random level generation make it a great game for those looking for a challenge. The game is a great example of the ZX Spectrum's capabilities and a fun way to explore the outer reaches of space.
Discs of Death
Discs of Death was released in 1985 for the ZX Spectrum, a popular 8-bit home computer in the United Kingdom. It was developed by the software company Mastertronic and was a single-player game. It is a classic arcade-style game, where the player controls their character, a robotic warrior armed with a laser gun. The goal is to navigate through various levels of a space station, destroying all enemies and collecting discs.
The gameplay of Discs of Death is fairly simple: the player navigates around the level, shooting enemies and collecting discs. The player needs to collect all the discs to progress to the next level. As the player progresses, the levels become increasingly difficult, with more obstacles and enemies. The player must use their laser gun to shoot enemies and destroy obstacles in order to progress.
Discs of Death was well-received upon its release. Critics praised the game's simple but addictive gameplay, as well as its colorful graphics and sound. It was a popular game in the United Kingdom, and was even re-released in 1988 for the Commodore 64.
Discs of Death still has a small but dedicated fanbase, even today. It is still remembered fondly by those who played it in the 1980s, and is a great example of an arcade-style game from that era. It is a testament to the game's lasting popularity that it has been re-released several times, and is still available to play today.
