190: Lionheart

Number 190
(10.8 points)
Lionheart
1993: 74

Having just one button on joysticks was a longtime problem for Amiga gamers, but Lionheart tries hard to get past this limitation.

This action platformer stars someone who looks an awful lot like He-Man with long hair, and a big sword to match. The objective is simple in that you just need to make it to the end of the stage, but the controls are the most controversial aspect. It uses a scheme not unlike Barbarian or IK+, whereby holding the fire button while pushing a direction performs different moves. While this enables your character to utilise an impressive array of attacks, some players will find it awkward to pull them off. Still, the excellent graphics and sound was one area which was never called into question.

I'm guessing the control system is the thing that divided fans of this one, but I'm firmly in the positive camp: I got used to it very quickly and had no trouble traversing the levels (people may forget that aside from the method of attacking, the jumping mechanics are pretty solid). All in all, a nice alternative to the mascot platformers of the time.

Recommended TOSEC disk(s):
Lionheart (1993)(Thalion)(Disk 1 of 4)
Lionheart (1993)(Thalion)(Disk 2 of 4)
Lionheart (1993)(Thalion)(Disk 3 of 4)
Lionheart (1993)(Thalion)(Disk 4 of 4)