Life & Death
| Industry | Video games |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Life & Death (video game) |
Life & Death is a computer game released in 1988 by The Software Toolworks. In this title, players take on the role of a surgeon specializing in abdominal procedures. The original release package included a surgical mask and gloves as part of the presentation. Its follow-up, Life & Death II: The Brain (1990), transitions the focus toward neurosurgical operations.
Gameplay
Players act as a surgical resident at the fictional Toolworks General Hospital, where they evaluate and manage medical issues including kidney stones, arthritis, appendicitis, and aneurysms of the aorta. Surgical intervention is necessary for appendicitis and aneurysms.
Reception
The game received commendation from Compute! for its proficient use of CGA graphics paired with PC speaker audio, along with a thoughtful advisory for individuals sensitive to blood imagery. An article on Gamasutra emphasized the game's intricate simulation aspects and the challenge it presents through mouse-only controls.
In a review for Macworld, Franklin N. Tessler, M.D., praised the Macintosh edition for its educational merit and realistic approach despite encountering some inaccuracies in the documentation. He acknowledged the graphic content and level of difficulty but criticized the copy protection system, monochrome visuals, and absence of a save function.
Life & Death earned nominations from the Software Publishers Association in categories such as Best Game, Best Simulation, and Best Use of Technology.
Reviews
- Games issue #99