The Amstrad CPC version of Argonaut Software‘s classic 3D shooter, Starglider, was developed by Realtime Games Software, who also coded the excellent ZX Spectrum version. It could be argued that it is even better than the Spectrum version, because it runs faster and also uses more colours in the polygons, although the game does have a smaller cockpit and play window than the Spectrum version.

Just like in the original Atari ST version (and the Spectrum version), control of the AGAV craft that you’re flying is dictated by the position of the aiming reticule in the centre of the screen. Rather than the reticule being fixed, it can move around, allowing for subtle changes in the craft’s movement. Forward speed is controlled by either the keyboard, or you can choose “one-handed mode”, which allows you to adjust flying speed by holding down the fire button on the joystick and pushing up or down to speed up or slow down.

The aim of Starglider is to score as many points as possible by destroying enemies, while at the same time surviving for as long as you can, by constantly docking at bases to re-arm and re-fuel. You must also keep your craft’s energy levels up, by occasionally flying between energy towers to re-charge. If your shields, or energy levels, reach zero, then it’s game over.

Some of the larger enemies cannot be destroyed using the AGAV’s lasers, so instead must be shot with missiles. Firing a missile will put you in control of it, with a TV view of the trajectory, through the missile’s nose cone. You have a limited time to guide the missile onto its target, before it self-destructs.

Starglider on the Amstrad was published by Rainbird in 1986, and it has stood the test of time well. It’s still a decent game to play now, and is one of the best games on the system.

More: Starglider on Wikipedia