A.M.C.: Astro Marine Corps
| Industry | Video game development |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1989 |
| Founder | Pablo Ariza |
| Products | A.M.C.: Astro Marine Corps |
A.M.C.: Astro Marine Corps is a platform shooter from 1989, created by Creepsoft and released by Dinamic Software. It became available on multiple systems, including Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, MSX, and Amstrad CPC. The programming was handled by Pablo Ariza, while the soundtrack was composed by José A. Martín.
Gameplay
In this title, players assume the role of an Astro Marine Corps soldier assigned to prevent the alien faction known as the Deathbringers from dominating the galaxy. The core gameplay centers on moving horizontally across levels, jumping over hazards, and eliminating foes. Collisions with enemies or their attacks either deplete health or cause immediate loss of life, with players starting out with four lives. Occasionally, power-up crates descend from above; shooting these crates uncovers various enhancements such as health boosts, grenades, alternative weapons like flamethrowers or spread shots, and short-term invincibility (though some enemies still inflict instant death).
The game is divided into two timed segments. The initial phase requires players to navigate to planet Dendar, seize control of the Deathbringers' spacecraft, and defeat the alien boss Krauer. The second phase challenges players to fight through the Deathbringers' home world to eliminate their supreme leader, the Great Alien King, thereby ending the alien assault.
Reception
Retro Games Review commended the title for its enduring replayability. ACE: Advanced Computer Entertainment labeled it as polished yet uncomplicated. The One acknowledged its contribution in elevating the "monster mashing" category. ST Format regarded it as a capable shooter, while Amiga Reviews emphasized its impressive visual presentation. On the other hand, The Games Machine criticized it for being monotonous and excessively challenging. Meanwhile, ZZtap64 humorously remarked that it might be mistaken for a military simulation.