Eldritch Force (ZX Spectrum Next)

This software runs on the ZX Spectrum Next home micro  - System/Next 22.10

To run, copy the folder and contents onto your Next's SD Card, then select "Eldritch Force.bas" from the browser.

It is advised that you hard reset your machine before running.

* * * 

Although dismissed by my peers, my study of the Voidstone Talisman - a curiously nebulous artifact - has not only led me to believe I have discovered its potential location, but also driven me to an uncontrollable desire to travel there in person and discover it for myself.

It has been all I can think about for several months now, even invading my dreams; dreams of strange shapes in the mist, or eyes peering at me from the darkness. Although the mythology of the Talisman says it has a power to open a gate from another reality, I'm sure that this is just fanciful thinking, although I do not doubt that it has some sort of power over the mind.

From my research I believe that it has been broken up into several tight-fitting pieces, and the last credible sighting of one of these was in Hydanford - a small, somewhat unheard of town to the north-east. This is where I am headed now, thankful for the night train that speeds me to the conclusion of my studies.

* * *

INSTRUCTIONS

Eldritch Force is a Lovecraftian game of exploration, suitable for those who like mapping. There is no action and no Game Over.

Controls are Q A O P to move. M will interact - usually this will involve searching an object at the back wall in a screen (such as a barrel, cigarette vending machine, box or dustbin).

The central eye indicates your state of mind. This will change with strange occurrences. Below and to the left are items that you have collected - what are they used for? To the right will show parts of the Voidstone Talisman. The Diary area is where messages will appear.

Depending on certain factors, you may experience one of three different endings.

DEVELOPER NOTES

While I'm aware that Eldritch Force is not really a fully rounded 'game' as such, I do hope that is provides some interest to those who like to draw out maps of rooms and item locations, as well as being somewhat atmospheric.

I was inspired to try making a multi-room exploration game in Next BASIC after thinking of games like Enigma Force and Spy vs Spy on the Spectrum. 

CREDITS

By Paul Weller/Sunteam 2023 www.sunteam.co.uk