Academy (video game)
| Industry | Video games |
|---|---|
| Founder | Pete Cooke |
| Products | Academy, Tau Ceti, Micronaut One, A Whole New Ball Game |
Academy is an action and simulation video game launched in 1986 by the CRL Group. It was made available on several platforms, including the Commodore 64, MS-DOS, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and Amiga. This title serves as a follow-up to Tau Ceti, created by the same developer, Pete Cooke.
Gameplay
Expanding upon the foundation set by Tau Ceti, players control a 'skimmer' navigating through three-dimensional settings that feature improved physics simulating various planetary environments and stellar influences, resulting in diverse gameplay scenarios. Unlike its predecessor's expansive single open world, Academy adopts a mission-driven structure, allowing players some flexibility in selecting the order of their assignments.
A notable feature from a business perspective is the capability for users to craft personalized skimmers by modifying engine specifications, armaments, equipment loads, and the arrangement of control panels. This level of customization enhances the simulation's complexity and targets a specialized segment of experienced gamers.
The user interface utilizes a cursor-and-menu approach similar to that found in Pete Cooke’s other works such as Micronaut One and A Whole New Ball Game.
Plot
Set in the year 2213, the narrative revolves around the Galcorp Academy for Advanced Skimmer Pilots (GASP), founded following a disastrous event on 61 Cygnus in 2197 caused by pilot error. GASP’s mission is to train elite operators for military skimmers employed in colonization and reconnaissance efforts. Players are tasked with completing 20 missions across five tiers to graduate, reflecting a structured training regimen that supports the game's mission-oriented design.
Reception
The game received high praise, with Your Sinclair awarding it a 9 out of 10 score along with a Megagame distinction; reviewer Phil South emphasized the innovative skimmer customization system and demanding missions. Similarly, CRASH rated it at 92%, applauding its refined presentation, mission framework, and three-dimensional graphics quality.