Games published by VIC-Soft
Select a publisher to browse its games.
We provide a complete list of games published by this publisher.
Deflect
Deflect, released in 1981 for the Commodore VIC-20, is a classic arcade-style game that captured the hearts of gamers everywhere. Developed by Texas-based software company Roklan Corporation, this fast-paced game grabbed the attention of both casual and hardcore gamers with its simple yet addictive gameplay.
The premise of Deflect is fairly straightforward – players control a paddle at the bottom of the screen and must use it to deflect a bouncing ball towards a wall of bricks. As the ball hits the bricks, they disappear and the player earns points. However, with each level, the bricks become more challenging to break and the ball speeds up, putting players' reflexes to the test.
One of the key factors that made Deflect such a popular game upon its release was its compatibility with the VIC-20. At a time when most games were only available on more advanced consoles, Deflect stood out as one of the few games that could be played on the more affordable and accessible VIC-20. This allowed it to reach a wider audience, making it a staple in many households.
But it wasn't just its accessibility that made Deflect a hit – it was also the game's simple yet addicting gameplay. The controls were easy to master, allowing players to focus on perfecting their timing and strategy. With each level becoming progressively more difficult, players were constantly challenged, keeping them engaged and coming back for more.
Beyond its gameplay, Deflect also stood out for its impressive graphics and sounds. Despite the limitations of the VIC-20's hardware, Roklan Corporation managed to create vivid and vibrant visuals that added to the overall appeal of the game. The sound effects and music also added to the immersive experience, making players feel like they were truly in an arcade.
Deflect's popularity led to several ports of the game to other platforms, including the Commodore 64 and Atari 2600. While these versions had improved graphics and gameplay, the original VIC-20 version remained a fan favorite due to its nostalgic charm.
Today, Deflect may be considered a relic of the past, but for those who grew up playing it, it is a cherished piece of gaming history. Its simplicity and addictiveness have stood the test of time, with many still playing it on emulators or seeking out the original hardware to relive the experience. And for those who have yet to experience it, Deflect is a must-try game that showcases the creativity and innovation of early video game developers.
Fire Trek
Fire Trek was a groundbreaking video game released for the VIC-20 in 1981. Developed by Commodore International, it was one of the first games to showcase the capabilities of this new home computer. It was a space-themed shooter game that captured the attention of gamers worldwide with its intense gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative features.
One of the most notable aspects of Fire Trek was its unique blend of 2D and 3D graphics, something that was unheard of at the time. The game was played on a 2D playing field, but the objects and enemies within the game were rendered in 3D, creating a more immersive experience for players. Additionally, the game featured multiple levels, each with its own distinct look and challenge, keeping players on their toes and wanting more.
Fire Trek also introduced a new control system to the gaming world. Using the keyboard or joystick, players could maneuver their spaceship in multiple directions, giving them a sense of freedom and control that was not present in many other games at the time. The controls were easy to learn, but difficult to master, making the game accessible to players of all skill levels.
The game's premise was to navigate through space, battling enemy ships and avoiding obstacles to reach the ultimate goal: destroying the enemy's mothership. As players progressed through the levels, the enemies became more advanced and the challenges more difficult, keeping players engaged and on the edge of their seats. And just when players thought they had mastered the game, Fire Trek introduced a bonus level that required players to navigate through a dense asteroid field, testing their skills and reflexes to the limit.
Aside from its innovative features, Fire Trek also had impressive sound effects and music, adding to the overall immersive experience of the game. The beeps and boops of the VIC-20 computer were perfectly integrated into the gameplay, creating an atmosphere that kept players engaged and on the edge of their seats. The game also had a high score feature, encouraging players to compete with their friends and family for the top spot on the leaderboard.
Fire Trek was a game ahead of its time and set the standard for future space-themed shooter games. Its success on the VIC-20 paved the way for its release on other platforms, including the Commodore 64 and Atari 2600. The game received critical acclaim for its graphics, gameplay, and innovative features, solidifying its place in the history of video games.
Nim
Nim, released in 1983 for the VIC-20, is a game that has stood the test of time. It may not have the flashy graphics or complex gameplay of modern video games, but its simplicity and addictive nature have kept players coming back for more for decades.
The premise of the game is straightforward - players take turns removing objects from a pile, with the goal being to force the other player to take the last one. This may sound simple, but as the number of objects in the pile decreases, the strategic choices become more complex. Nim is a game that requires both cunning and patience, making it a challenging and engaging experience for players.
One of the most interesting aspects of Nim is its origins. The game has been played in various forms for centuries, dating back to ancient China. However, in 1983, it was brought into the modern age with the release of the VIC-20 game. This allowed people from all over the world to enjoy the game, and it quickly became a popular pastime in homes and arcades.
The VIC-20 version of Nim also included a computer opponent, making it possible for players to challenge themselves against the computer. This added another layer to the gameplay, as players had to outsmart the computer's moves. The difficulty settings ranged from beginner to expert, so players of all skill levels could find a suitable challenge.
Another unique aspect of the game was its use of graphics. The VIC-20 was not known for its advanced graphics, but the creators of Nim still managed to make the game visually appealing. The objects in the pile were represented by shapes and colors, adding a visual element to the gameplay. This may seem basic compared to modern 3D graphics, but at the time, it was revolutionary.
Nim's enduring popularity can also be attributed to its accessibility. Unlike many modern games that require expensive consoles or powerful computers, Nim can be played on almost any device. This has made it a go-to game for casual players and retro gamers alike.
Space Zap
Space Zap was a revolutionary game released in 1982 for the VIC-20, a popular home computer at the time. It was developed by legendary game designer, Bob Smith, and quickly became an instant hit among gamers. The game boasted impressive graphics and challenging gameplay, making it a must-have for any VIC-20 owner.
The premise of Space Zap was simple yet captivating - players were tasked with defending their space station from invading aliens. Armed with a laser gun, players had to shoot down the alien spaceships before they reached the station and destroyed it. The game featured multiple levels, each with increasing difficulty, keeping players on the edge of their seats and fully engaged.
One of the most notable aspects of Space Zap was its graphics, which were ahead of its time. The game utilized the VIC-20's limited color palette to create a visually stunning galactic environment. From the detailed space station to the intricate alien ships, every element was well-crafted and brought to life on the screen. The smooth movements and animations of the objects added to the overall immersion of the game.
In addition to its impressive graphics, Space Zap also had a memorable soundtrack. The pulsating electronic music, composed by industry veteran, Tim Jones, perfectly complemented the gameplay and added to the intensity of the game. The sound effects were also top-notch, with the laser blasts and explosions sounding realistic and gratifying.
One of the reasons for Space Zap's success was its addictive gameplay. The controls were simple yet responsive, making it easy for players to maneuver their laser gun and shoot down the alien ships. The game also included power-ups that players could collect for temporary benefits such as speed boosts or invincibility, adding an extra level of excitement to the game.
As with any popular game, Space Zap also had its share of cheat codes and secrets that kept players coming back for more. From hidden levels to bonus points, players were always on the lookout for ways to improve their high scores and bragging rights. The game also featured a two-player mode, allowing friends or family members to compete against each other for the top spot.
Space Zap's success on the VIC-20 led to its adaptation on other platforms, including the Atari 2600 and Commodore 64. However, fans of the game will attest that the VIC-20 version remains the best and most memorable. Even years after its release, Space Zap continues to have a cult following among retro gamers and is considered a classic in the realm of vintage video games.
Ten Pins Bowl
In the early 1980s, as home computers were becoming increasingly popular, video game company Commodore released the VIC-20 computer. Among the various games available on this platform, one of the most notable and popular ones was Ten Pins Bowl. Released in 1981, Ten Pins Bowl quickly became a favorite among gaming enthusiasts due to its simple yet engaging gameplay and graphics.
Ten Pins Bowl is a bowling game that allows players to experience the excitement of a bowling alley right in the comfort of their own homes. Developed by Lawrence Holland, the game features impressive 3D graphics for its time and a user-friendly interface that made it accessible to even the most amateur players. The goal of the game is to knock down as many pins as possible in ten rounds, just like in a real-life bowling game.
What made Ten Pins Bowl stand out among similar games of its time was its level of customization. Players were able to choose from three different difficulty levels – beginner, intermediate, and professional – as well as adjust the speed of the ball and the angle of the throw. This allowed players to tailor the game according to their skill level, making it appealing to both beginners and more experienced players.
Moreover, Ten Pins Bowl offered an additional feature that made it even more exciting – a multiplayer option. Up to four players could compete against each other, making the game perfect for game nights with friends or family. The multiplayer option also had a unique twist – players could change the order of their turns, making it more strategic and challenging.
Aside from its customizable options and multiplayer feature, Ten Pins Bowl also had a leaderboard that showed the highest scores achieved. This added a competitive element to the game, motivating players to beat their own records and those of their friends. This competitive nature of the game made it even more addictive and entertaining.
Despite its simple gameplay, Ten Pins Bowl received mostly positive reviews from critics and gamers alike. The game was praised for its smooth and responsive controls, realistic sound effects, and overall enjoyable experience. It even won awards such as "Best Sports Game of the Year" by Creative Computing Magazine in 1982.
