Spinning Image (2024)
a FREEWARE game by ‘Carleton Handley’, ‘Saul Cross’ and ‘Ilija Malentijevic’ for Commodore 64
Written for BrewOtaku #002 by Syed Raza
Do you like exciting and challenging puzzle games, with a little slice of action? ‘Spinning Image’ by ‘Carleton’, ‘Saul’ and ‘Ilija’ features another old concept, but with a twist.
SPIN AND REPLICATE!
A grid of 16×16 blocks displays an item on the right side of your screen. On the left side of the screen, you own a modified copy. You have been given a tool to rotate the grid, and its content, and you can place and remove blocks. The amount of blocks you own is limited. The task now is to copy the right item 1:1. Only then you will be able to proceed. The first levels are easy and act as an introduction to the game. Designed with someone who has a brain, so you can just play and learn the game mechanics on the go, without reading a manual. Once a level is solved, it unlocks the next one. The game comes in five sets of 10 levels. The next set only unlocks when you have completed a minimum of eight stages from the previous one. Wrong decisions will drain your brain and by time you either get frustrated or you accept the challenge and try to beat the level at any cost. Be ready to treat your nerves well.
You get to see how the difficulty increases steadily. You have to think, coordinate and plan your next brick to make sure things fall in the right place. This is where things get interesting, as soon as you progress, you are also introduced to obstacles like bouncing walls or portals that further challenge your mind and reflexes.
Sometimes you need to place a ‘floating’ brick, be sure to build a tower first, to reach there, rotate and return unused blocks to your account. It’s tricky!
Conclusion
One of the better puzzle games out there for the Commodore 64. If you like puzzle games, this is for you. Design, graphics, music, and playability are superb! A little gem! Can we have a sequel, please?
