Liverpool (video game)
| Company type | Video game |
|---|---|
| Industry | Video games |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Founder | Arc Developments |
| Products | Liverpool (football simulation video game) |
| Parent | Grandslam Entertainment (distributor) |
Liverpool (also titled Liverpool: The Computer Game) is a football simulation video game produced by Arc Developments and distributed by Grandslam Entertainment. The initial release occurred in 1990 for the Amstrad CPC, followed by versions for Atari ST, Amiga, and MS-DOS in 1992, with a Commodore 64 adaptation arriving in 1993. The game focuses exclusively on Liverpool F.C. and accommodates either single-player or two-player modes.
Although a ZX Spectrum edition was promoted, it ultimately never became available.
Gameplay
In Liverpool, players assume control of Liverpool F.C., facing off against clubs within the English football league and the FA Cup tournaments. Gamers can choose team formations featuring actual Liverpool players, modify the playing surface type and match length, and participate in various football actions such as dribbling, ball handling, throw-ins, corner kicks, goal kicks, as well as managing injuries and disciplinary measures like red and yellow cards. Both joystick and keyboard inputs are supported.
The title includes a "Full Season" option encompassing league and FA Cup fixtures, alongside an "FA Cup Only" mode. Achieving the double trophy stands as the primary objective. Each platform’s release incorporated Liverpool’s roster from the season current at that time.
Reception
Critical response to Liverpool differed depending on the platform. The Amstrad CPC edition was rated poorly at 9%, with reviewers citing unresponsive gameplay and difficult controls. In contrast, the Commodore 64 version received high praise with a 93% score, noted for its fluid control scheme and competent AI. The Amiga release earned a 70% rating, criticized for choppy controls and simplistic animations; it was mainly recommended to devoted Liverpool supporters.