Impossible Mission (1984)
The 1984 Commodore 64 game, Impossible Mission, is the definitive platform-puzzle game, developed by Dennis Caswell and published by Epyx. It was later ported to several other platforms, including the ZX Spectrum, Atari 7800, and NES. The game is renowned for its perfect blend of fast-paced platform action, puzzle-solving mechanics, and a distinct sense of urgency, all set within a futuristic, espionage-themed world.
In Impossible Mission, you play a secret agent infiltrating the underground base of the evil genius, Professor Elvin Atombender. Your mission is to stop him from launching a devastating attack on the world. Search the base, find the pieces of the puzzle, and assemble them to gain access to Atombender's control room. Players must complete the mission in a fixed amount of time.
Impossible Mission stands out from other platform games of its era thanks to its focus on exploration and puzzle-solving, rather than just action. The game's environment is made up of a series of rooms, each filled with computer terminals, furniture, and other objects that the player must search for puzzle pieces. However, while searching, the player must constantly evade patrolling robots that shoot lasers or attempt to capture them. The player must evade these robots using skillful platforming maneuvers, such as running, jumping, and somersaulting. This game is different from other platformers of the time. Combat isn't a central focus. There are no weapons. The player's objective is to evade enemies, not fight them.
The puzzle elements of Impossible Mission add an extra layer of complexity. As the player searches for puzzle pieces, they must also solve the puzzles by arranging various shapes into coherent patterns. Complete the puzzles and unlock new parts of the base. Confront Atombender. This combination of action and puzzles makes the game more than just a typical platformer. It requires strategic thinking and quick reflexes—and it delivers.
The game's time limit intensifies the sense of urgency. The player must complete the entire mission within a limited amount of real-time hours. The time limit is reduced each time the player is caught by a robot or falls into one of the traps scattered throughout the base. The time pressure adds stress and forces the player to make quick decisions, balancing thorough exploration with the need to conserve time.
Impossible Mission was a visually impressive game for its time. The game features smooth animations, especially the protagonist's fluid somersaults and movements. The robots are distinct and menacing, and they add to the tension as they patrol the base. Each playthrough offers a different layout because the rooms in the base are procedurally generated, which adds to the game's replayability. The environments are functional and create a stark, high-tech atmosphere suitable for the game's espionage theme, despite being somewhat repetitive in design.
The sound design in Impossible Mission is one of the most memorable aspects of the game. The game opens with the iconic digitized voice of Professor Atombender taunting the player with phrases like, "Another visitor!" Stay a while... stay forever! This use of synthesized speech was groundbreaking and became one of the defining features of the game. The background sound effects, such as the hum of machinery and the ominous tones when robots are near, are essential to the game's atmosphere and enhance the tension.
Impossible Mission was a smashing success when it first came out, thanks to its groundbreaking gameplay and technical achievements. The game's unique blend of platforming, puzzle-solving, and time-sensitive objectives set it apart from other games of the time, which often focused on either action or reflexes. The non-linear structure, which allows players to choose the order in which they explore the rooms, adds depth and allows for a variety of playstyles. The randomization of room layouts in each playthrough guarantees that the game remains fresh even after multiple attempts.
However, the game was not without its challenges. This game is not for the faint of heart. It requires precision in both evading enemies and solving puzzles. Some players found the time limit stressful because it left no room for error or experimentation. Additionally, while the puzzles were innovative, they were also somewhat abstract, which led to frustration for players who struggled to see the solution.
Impossible Mission is a classic in the history of video games, despite the difficulties. Its combination of platforming action, puzzles, and strategic planning was unquestionably ahead of its time, influencing future generations of puzzle-platformers. The game's success led to sequels, including Impossible Mission II, as well as remakes and re-releases for modern platforms.
Impossible Mission is a testament to the innovative design and technical capabilities of 1980s video games. Its unique blend of action and puzzles, combined with a tense, time-limited structure, makes it a standout title that remains influential in gaming history. If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding retro experience, Impossible Mission offers a thrilling journey through a world of espionage, strategy, and high-stakes platforming.
