Assassin (video game)
| Industry | Video game development |
|---|---|
Key people | Martyn Brown (project overseer) |
| Products | Assassin (video game) |
| Parent | Team17 (publisher) |
Assassin is a platformer video game incorporating shoot 'em up mechanics, designed for the Amiga. Created by Psionic Systems and published in 1992 by Team17, the company renowned for the Worms titles, it was later revised and reissued in 1994 under the title Assassin: Special Edition.
Gameplay
In this game, players assume the role of an assassin tasked with eliminating the villain "Midan," starting by sabotaging his energy source deep within hostile territory. The character wields a sharp-edged boomerang, with controls optimized for joystick use.
Difficulty is adjustable through three tiers—Rookie, Arcade, and Ultimate—each increasing challenge and unlocking additional content. Higher difficulties introduce more formidable adversaries while offering enhanced rewards.
The assassin traverses various stages confronting enemies ranging from aggressive dogs to automated laser turrets. Movement capabilities include scaling walls and ceilings to evade threats. Attack options consist of the primary boomerang weapon along with special armaments acquired by achieving specific objectives.
Development
Psionic Systems developed the game in collaboration with Team17, with project oversight provided by Martyn Brown. Programming responsibilities were handled by David Broadhurst and Haydn Dalton, supported by Mike and Andrew Oakley. Audio composition and sound design were created by Allister Brimble.
Reception
Assassin garnered favorable reviews from critics. The One Amiga awarded a 92% rating, commending its creative sound design while mentioning some sparse background areas. Amiga Power gave it an 89% score, praising its immersive atmosphere, visual presentation, and animation quality, though noting resemblances to Strider and Turrican. Similarly, CU Amiga rated it 89%, highlighting the expansive game world that encompasses over 1500 screens spread across five levels.
The British television program Bad Influence! assigned it 4 stars for female viewers and 3 stars for male viewers out of a possible 5.
Despite positive critical reception, Team17 co-founder Martyn Brown regards Assassin as their least commercially successful release, attributing this outcome to its niche market appeal.
Legacy
Two years following the initial launch, Assassin: Special Edition was introduced with modified gameplay features. This version omitted the original opening level and removed canine enemies, replacing the boomerang weapon with a laser gun instead. Although rated lower at 79% by Amiga Power, this edition was recognized for its enhancements over the original.