I was asked for 10 games to try out for any non C64 users, to showcase the computer. These were some picks but to be honest I could have easily picked a whole load more but these offered the gamer a nice challenge, good graphics and sound. These were the days
These games showcase the variety and creativity of the platform, from action-packed adventures to mind-bending puzzles.
1. The Last Ninja
Few C64 games are as iconic as The Last Ninja. This action-adventure game combines isometric graphics with a deep, immersive storyline. You take on the role of Armakuni, the last ninja, seeking revenge against an evil shogun. The gameplay involves solving puzzles, engaging in hand-to-hand combat, and navigating through a variety of beautifully designed levels.
The graphics were groundbreaking for the time, featuring lush environments like gardens, dungeons, and waterfalls. The soundtrack, composed by Ben Daglish and Anthony Lees, is a masterpiece, blending oriental melodies with the electronic sounds of the SID chip.
The controls can be challenging to master, requiring precision to navigate the isometric perspective. However, the reward of unraveling its intricate puzzles and defeating enemies makes it a must-play for C64 fans.
A great game which I found extremely tricky, especially those precise jumps – a masterpiece.
2. Elite
Elite redefined what a game could be with its ambitious open-world space simulation. You start as a humble space trader with a basic ship and set out to explore a vast universe. The game offers complete freedom: trade goods between planets, engage in piracy, or become a bounty hunter.
The wireframe 3D graphics were revolutionary, offering players a sense of depth and scale unmatched at the time. Each star system felt alive, with bustling trade routes and dangerous space pirates. The game’s procedural generation ensured no two playthroughs were alike.
Elite also featured a steep learning curve. Piloting your ship, managing resources, and mastering combat required patience. However, the satisfaction of earning the coveted “Elite” combat rank made the journey worthwhile.
3. Maniac Mansion
Maniac Mansion brought Lucasfilm Games’ signature humor and storytelling to the C64. This point-and-click adventure follows a group of teenagers trying to rescue their friend from a mad scientist’s mansion. The game’s non-linear design allows players to choose different characters, each with unique abilities, leading to multiple solutions for puzzles.
The mansion is filled with quirky characters, including the scientist, his bizarre family, and a sentient meteor. The humor is sharp, with satirical nods to B-movies and teen horror tropes. The innovative SCUMM engine made navigating the game intuitive, even on the C64.
The graphics and music, though limited by the C64’s hardware, capture the game’s eerie yet comedic tone. With its depth and replayability, Maniac Mansion remains a standout title.
4. Wizball
Wizball is a surreal and innovative shooter from Sensible Software. You play as Wiz, a wizard turned into a bouncing ball, tasked with restoring color to his world. The game combines fast-paced shooting with exploration and resource management.
The controls are initially challenging, as you must master bouncing and shooting simultaneously. Once you collect power-ups, the gameplay becomes smoother and more dynamic. The ability to switch between Wiz and his feline companion, Catellite, adds depth to the game’s mechanics.
The visuals are striking, with colorful gradients filling the screen as you progress. The soundtrack by Martin Galway is another highlight, perfectly complementing the game’s quirky style.
5. Turrican
Turrican is a run-and-gun platformer that pushed the C64 to its limits. You control a powerful warrior armed with a vast arsenal, battling through sprawling levels filled with enemies and secrets. The game’s fast-paced action and tight controls make it a joy to play.
The graphics are stunning, with detailed sprites and fluid animations. The soundtrack, composed by Chris Hülsbeck, is a masterpiece, featuring epic tunes that elevate the gameplay experience.
Exploration is rewarded, as hidden paths and power-ups are scattered throughout the levels. The sheer variety of enemies and weapons ensures that Turrican never feels repetitive.
6. International Karate+
International Karate+ (IK+) is one of the best fighting games on the C64. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel features three fighters competing simultaneously, adding a layer of chaos to the gameplay. The game’s responsive controls and varied moves make it a favorite among fans of the genre.
The graphics are smooth, with well-animated characters and detailed backgrounds. The soundtrack is catchy, keeping players engaged during intense matches. The humor, such as random objects appearing on the screen, adds to the game’s charm.
IK+ offers single-player and multiplayer modes, making it a great choice for competitive play. Its simplicity and polish ensure it remains enjoyable even decades later.
Special mention to Way of the Exploding fist in this type of game category
7. Impossible Mission
“Stay a while, stay forever!” The chilling voice of the villain in Impossible Mission sets the tone for this tense and challenging game. You play as a secret agent infiltrating a villain’s lair, solving puzzles, and avoiding traps to stop his evil plan.
The game’s randomly generated rooms and puzzles ensure high replayability. Navigating the lair requires careful timing and precision to avoid deadly robots and other hazards. The graphics are minimalist but effective, and the digitized speech was groundbreaking for the C64.
The sense of urgency, as you race against the clock, keeps players on edge. Impossible Mission is a perfect blend of action and strategy.
To hear speech in a game was amazing at the time – one of my favourites all round
8. Boulder Dash
Boulder Dash is a classic puzzle game that requires quick thinking and careful planning. You play as Rockford, digging through dirt to collect gems while avoiding falling boulders and enemies. Each level presents unique challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh.
The physics-based mechanics are the game’s standout feature. Rocks and gems react to gravity, adding a layer of strategy to your movements. The colorful graphics and catchy music enhance the experience.
As the levels progress, the difficulty ramps up, requiring precise timing and clever use of the environment. Boulder Dash is a timeless classic that remains addictive.
9. Paradroid
Paradroid is a top-down shooter with a unique twist. You play as a robot attempting to take control of a spaceship by eliminating hostile droids. The game’s core mechanic involves transferring your consciousness into other robots, each with unique abilities.
The strategic element of choosing which robots to possess adds depth to the gameplay. The graphics are simple but effective, with clear visuals and smooth animations. The music and sound effects create an intense atmosphere.
Paradroid’s innovative mechanics and challenging gameplay make it one of the most original titles on the C64.
10. Ghosts ‘n Goblins
This port of Capcom’s arcade hit is a brutal yet rewarding platformer. You play as Sir Arthur, battling through hordes of monsters to rescue a princess. The game is infamous for its difficulty, requiring precise timing and quick reflexes.
The graphics capture the eerie charm of the original, with detailed sprites and atmospheric backgrounds. The music, though simplified for the C64, retains the iconic tunes of the arcade version.
Despite its difficulty, Ghosts ‘n Goblins is highly replayable. Each victory feels hard-earned, making it a favorite for fans of challenging games.
A port of an arcade game that wasn’t a let down – there were a few disappointments in this area.
Conclusion
The Commodore 64’s diverse library showcases its versatility as a gaming platform.
Whether you enjoy action, adventure, or strategy, these 10 games offer something for everyone. There are many more I could add but that will be a future article