Firezone
| Industry | Video game publishing |
|---|---|
| Products | Firezone |
Firezone is a 1988 computer wargame created by Arcadia and released by Personal Software Services (PSS) on the Amstrad CPC. It belongs to PSS' Wargamers collection. Subsequent versions were developed for the Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS platforms.
Gameplay
Set in the 21st century amid a clash between the Pacific Combine and the European League, Firezone is a turn-based strategy title played on a hexagonal map. Each turn, players either maneuver their units or engage enemy forces, with combat outcomes partially determined by luck. The objective is to destroy opposing units or compel them to retreat. The game incorporates futuristic technology such as grav tanks and energy beam weapons. The disk edition offers nine different scenarios, whereas the cassette release contains three. Additionally, it includes a scenario editor and supports two-player multiplayer mode. The DOS version features compatibility with both CGA and EGA graphic standards.
Reception
The Amstrad CPC iteration received a score of 710/1000 from ACE, which highlighted its vivid visuals but noted sluggish screen refresh rates, describing it as "a straightforward wargame with a challenging AI opponent." The Amiga port earned a higher rating, commended for enhanced scrolling mechanics and audio effects. Conversely, Amstrad Action pointed out the simplistic graphics and sound design, limited play area, and brief scenarios as drawbacks. According to .info, the game serves as an enjoyable pastime without significant depth, while Amiga User International found it both uncomplicated and compelling. The Australian Commodore and Amiga Review praised its intuitive interface and solid overall presentation, recommending it as an accessible choice for beginners that still provides a test for experienced players. On the other hand, Datormagazin discouraged purchasing it due to superior strategy games available on the Amiga.
Additional review scores include: 734/1000 (Atari ST) and 735/1000 (Amiga) from ACE; 64% from Amstrad Action; 39/60 (ST) by ASM; 14/20 (DOS) from Tilt; 85/100 (Amiga) by The Australian Commodore and Amiga Review; 3/10 (Amiga) from Datormagazin; 7/10 from DOS International; 84% (Amiga, ST) by Génération 4; 3/5 (C64) from .info; and 7/10 (DOS, ST) from Jeux et Stratégie.