Deep Space Hitch | Objectives | In Play | Verdict | Rating
Product: 3 Deep Space
Computer: BBC Model B
Price: £7.95 (Cassette)
Publisher: Postern
Reviewer: Andrew Willis
Rating: 3/5
3 Deep Space ()
3 Deep Space ()
3 Deep Space ()
3 Deep Space ()
3 Deep Space ()

Deep Space Hitch

The television screen is of course a two-dimension affair, so when someone tries to add a third dimension to a space battle game, we should at least take notice. This is in essence an Arcade type space battle, with you the only thing between Earth and damnation. The difference is that here you can move your interceptor in and out of the plane of the screen, flying in front or behind the enemy.

Objectives

Waves of Andromedan spaceships wing towards you on their way to Earth, and it is your task to let as few past as possible. There are five types, of which the Dragon class must on no account pass by, for then the end of the world is assured.

You must place yourself in the correct position both vertically on the screen, and also in depth, for otherwise your laser bolt will miss. If the going gets too tough, your ship is also equipped with a few handy X-bombs, that somehow destroy everything on the screen except you.

In Play

Postern seems to have done everything right with the packaging of this game. It comes in a nice wallet with an excellent set of instructions, and a pair of those red and blue 3D specs.

Despite the lengthy instructions however, I could not obtain a good 3D effect on my TV. This may be due to the particular room, but does at least demonstrate that difficulties can be met.

Having said that, the game was fun anyway. At least with the early waves of baddies, you can tell at what depth they are by their size. Later waves however are fitted with image distorters. The controls are easy to use, and the sound adequately noisy.

Verdict

This is a clever attempt to achieve 3D. Unfortunately it probably won't work too well on most TVs. Wearing the glasses can be uncomfortable and irritating. The game itself is standard enough but without a full 3D effect is frustrating and pointless.

It's possible that the best approach to 3D will not be via two-colour viewing but by perspective graphics such as those used in Luna Crabs, Ant Attack and so on.

Sometimes the best ideas don't quite work out in practice.

Rating

Lasting Appeal 3/5
Playability 3/5
Use Of Machine 2/5
Overall Value 3/5

Deep Space Hitch | Objectives | In Play | Verdict | Rating