Squish

Squish is a video game in the action genre and published by Palace Software, Ltd. originally released in 1984. It is currently playable on VIC-20.

Squish was a revolutionary game released in 1984 for the VIC-20, a home computer system developed by Commodore. This game quickly gained popularity due to its unique concept and addictive gameplay. Developed by Garry Kitchen, Squish was one of the first games to utilize the VIC-20's advanced technology, making it a standout title in the early days of gaming.

The premise of Squish is straightforward but challenging. The player takes on the role of a spider trying to defend its web from invading bugs. The goal is to squish as many bugs as possible before they reach the web and destroy it. The game features varying levels of difficulty, with more bugs appearing and moving faster as the player progresses. This adds an element of excitement and tension to the game, keeping players on their toes.

One of the standout features of Squish was its graphics. While the VIC-20 was not known for its powerful graphics capabilities, Kitchen managed to create an aesthetically pleasing game with vibrant colors and smooth animations. This was no small feat considering the limitations of the system at the time. The background music, albeit simple, was also a nice touch and added to the overall immersive experience.

What made Squish truly unique was its use of a joystick controller, a relatively new concept in gaming at the time. Instead of using the keyboard to control the spider, players could now use a joystick, making the gameplay more intuitive and enjoyable. This innovative approach to controls set Squish apart from other games of the era and paved the way for future titles to follow suit.

Another aspect that contributed to Squish's success was its addictiveness. The game was easy to pick up but difficult to master, keeping players coming back for more. It required quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and good hand-eye coordination, making it a challenge for players of all ages. The feeling of satisfaction after successfully squishing a line of bugs was unparalleled and kept players engaged for hours on end.

Squish also had a competitive element, as players could compare their high scores with friends and family. This sparked friendly competition and added to the game's replayability. Kitchen's attention to detail in creating a well-rounded and enjoyable gaming experience paid off, as Squish became a must-have title for VIC-20 owners.

It is possible that we have multiple downloads available when different versions exist.