Beyond the Ice Palace
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Video game development |
| Founded | 1980s |
| Products | Video games, including Beyond the Ice Palace (1988) |
Beyond the Ice Palace is a platform game developed by Elite Systems and released in 1988 for platforms such as the Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum.
Gameplay
This side-scrolling platform title consists of three stages where players confront various monsters, drawing clear inspiration from Ghosts 'n Goblins through its weapon acquisition mechanics. Throughout the adventure, players can call upon two circular-faced Spirits of the Forest that aid in difficult encounters, with additional spirits available to be gathered as the game progresses.
Plot
The narrative unfolds in an enchanted realm where malevolent spirits unleashed by a wicked witch endanger the forests. In response, the ancient forest guardians release a sacred arrow into the sky; whoever retrieves this arrow gains the power to vanquish the darkness and defeat the witch.
Reception
Sinclair User described the game as "not a classic but good enough to occupy you until the NBT (Next Big Thing)." Meanwhile, Your Sinclair praised it as "a rather super little game." Receiving an 83% rating, Crash lauded it as a "slick, playable and extremely compelling arcade adventure."
Gavin Eke of Retro Gamer observed its similarities to Ghosts 'n Goblins, emphasizing its "colourful & smooth" visuals and labeling it a "flattering tribute." Reviewing the Atari ST edition, Gavin Miller acknowledged its difficulty despite having just three levels and complimented its soundtrack, expressing a desire for additional content.
Sequel
The follow-up title, Beyond the Ice Palace II, was announced in April 2024 and subsequently released on March 10, 2025. Created by Storybird Studio, this sequel became available on several platforms including Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.