Dick Tracy, released in the mid-1990s by Sega, was a game that took inspiration from the immensely popular 1989 movie of the same name. However, it’s important to note that this game isn’t about intricate mystery-solving; it’s a straightforward tale of Dick Tracy relentlessly pursuing leads on the notorious Big Boy’s organized crime syndicate.
Gameplay and Controls
The gameplay revolves around three primary buttons. One triggers your standard Tommy gun, firing bullets akin to those seen in Mega Man. You also have the option to engage in close combat by throwing punches. Another button facilitates jumping, a staple in action-packed games. The most intriguing, however, is the machine gun, exclusively employed against background enemies, providing a layer of complexity to the gameplay.
Enemies assail you, firing shots your way, and you retaliate. Occasionally, foes emerge from doors, cars, and windows in the backdrop, launching their own offensive. This dynamic demands precise technique and promises a significant learning curve.
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The concept of simultaneous combat in both foreground and background is undeniably intriguing, but it falls short in execution. Initial excitement dwindles rapidly as encounters become monotonous, with the same handful of adversaries appearing repeatedly. Yet, it’s worth noting that this game serves as an excellent test of reflexes and hand-eye coordination.
Control-wise, there’s room for improvement. The machine gun control is spot-on, but maneuvering with the standard gun proves challenging due to its lack of rapid fire. Additionally, Dick Tracy moves at a sluggish pace, making for less dynamic gameplay. Jumps pale in comparison to the likes of Mega Man, and the visual aspect of this is, frankly, comical.
Graphics and Sound
Graphically, the game is somewhat lackluster. Details are sparse, with buildings and objects in the background reduced to basic one-line, two-color patterns. At any given time, the screen seldom displays more than four colors.
The character designs fare better. Dick Tracy sports his iconic yellow trench coat and hat, while the villains exude a mafia-esque aesthetic, as intended. Strategic decisions often hinge on the color of an enemy’s suit and tie. The level transitions adopt a stylistic approach reminiscent of 1960s comic books, a pleasant touch.
Sound-wise, brace yourself for an onslaught of “POW! POW! RATATATATATATATATAT! POW! POW! POW! RATATATAT!” This repetitive auditory landscape, while realistic, leaves room for additional diversity.
Straightforward Levels and Bonus Rounds
The game’s levels follow an uncomplicated trajectory, arguably among the most straightforward encountered in my 12 years of gaming. The primary variable lies in enemy diversity, with the occasional introduction of a new foe per level. Progression entails a leisurely forward march, punctuated by intermittent combat. Some levels deviate from this norm, introducing hand-to-hand combat or thrilling car chases.
Special bonus rounds inject a welcome change. Here, three cardboard cutouts of individuals surface for a brief moment, aligned with buttons A, B, and C. Quick reflexes and instinct are key in distinguishing friend from foe. Successful selections yield additional lives and continues, a rewarding diversion.
A Test of Reflexes, But Not Without Flaws
While Dick Tracy offers moments of excitement, they are most prominent in the early stages. The game’s inclination towards impulsive decision-making is apparent, though instances of unavoidable damage persist. Maneuvering through a hail of bullets from both foreground and background assailants can be a true challenge.
The game grants eight points of health, with no single attack inflicting more than two points of damage. While this may seem ample, the prolonged and repetitious levels can erode both skill and engagement, occasionally bordering on tedium.
Conclusion: A Momentary Thrill
Dick Tracy succeeds in providing short-lived excitement, making it a potential candidate for quick gaming sessions. However, its limited depth and lack of variety may lead to disinterest over time. With a myriad of other titles vying for attention, allocating resources to this game might not be the wisest investment.
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