REVIEW

AT 7,30; "SOKOMATH!"

Reviewer: Cowboy
Developer: R Tape
Genre: Maths Puzzler
Platform: Spectrum 48K
Language: BASIC

"SOKOBAN + MATHS = FUN!!" exclaims the loader of this latest entry from R Tape in which he combines classic Japanese warehouse management puzzler Sokoban with Key Stage 2-level multiplication.

Before we move onto the game-proper, however, it's worth noting that this loader - like Bob's New Kidney and the main game in Yes Dear before it - features an interesting use of dithering, BRIGHT and colour combinations that gives the impression of an extended Spectrum palette. Very swish.

As if that wasn't enough of a treat there's also a bonus hidden credit text. Keep your eyes peeled (and your Fast Loader off.)

The object of Sokoban, for those unfamiliar with the game, is to move the (in this case yellow) boxes into the (in this case red target) 'storage areas.' You can only push the boxes and, frequently, you'll find there's a wall or another box blocking your path. The trick is to find the order in which to shift objects around (often multiple times) so that you're in the right position to push the box into its target area.

R Tape has recreated the original game mechanic perfectly and is at risk of having accidentally developed something a bit too good for the CSSCGC.

Luckily, after a record-breaking year in the hot seat, he's learned a trick or two about crapifying otherwise competently written software.

In this case he's decided to break up the 'warehouse reorganisation' element of the game with some rudimentary accounting - before you can move your (um.. racing car?) you have to answer a simple multiplication question, i.e.: What is 5 multiplied by 4? What is 11 multiplied by 7?*

* 20 and 77. No calculator. Be impressed.

Assuming, like me, you can match the mathematical skills of a 6 year-old you can then use Q, A, O and P to manoeuvre your little green.. um.. forklift truck?.. before moving on to the next sum.

I'm not sure if it's the distraction of the maths, or that I'm just rubbish at brain-games (There's my vote - Ed,) but I couldn't quite figure how to beat the first level. I even tried to cheat by looking up Sokoban solutions online, however, in the end I had to go back to R Tape with my tail between my legs and ask for help.

He was kind enough to send me an .RZX recording of the solution (with the maths suspiciously removed) which, in turn, enabled me to complete the level (and this review.)

At this point the icing on this particular crap cake was revealed; the level ends rather abruptly with a "RETURN without GOSUB" error. No Level 2, not even a "Well Done. You Success" message.

With additional levels, some AY-music, an unnecessary background starfield effect and (I'm sad to say) the maths removed, this could easily have been a commercial game back in the early 80s.

As it is, it's right at home here in the CSSCGC 2014.

[ Top of Page ]