Astaroth: The Angel of Death

At first sight Astaroth seems like a slow-moving, unoriginal arcade adventure of the simple type produced years ago. However, playing it for a while reveals an interesting game with plenty to see and do, the inclusion of Mind Powers adding a tactical aspect. Even with the useful save option, making progress requires plenty of skill and patience although the gorgeous backdrops are a real incentive to persevere, creating a surreal atmosphere. Nearly every screen has some new set piece of surreal design, making you gasp at the Pete Lyon's wealth of imagination, and encouraging you to get further into the catacombs. Although definitely NOT recommended for those who like their action fast and furious, Astaroth is a highly polished, thought-provoking adventure.

Bis zum großen Showdown ist es allerdings ein weiter Weg, der durch zahlreiche hübsch gestaltete Screens (Höhlen) Führt. Unterwegs gibt es viel exotische Weiblichkeit zu bewundern (nur nicht den Kopf verdrehen lassen!). Fans des Genres dürfen also getrost zugreifen: Sie erhalten ein sauber programmiertes Game samt dekorativem Poster (die Titelheldin in voller Grazie) fürs Geld.

Astaroth is a very dull game to play. The element of exploration is there, but because of the very limited nature of the backdrops you never really feel that you are getting anywhere. The challenge rapidly becomes very boring too, being limited to only four things: skulls and bats that swoop about, and raindrops and rocks that fall from the roof. I cannot see anybody wanting to get all the way through this. Not the best game Hewson have ever released. Short on gameplay, short on graphics and short on variety. I would say this game is lacking a little, wouldn’t you?

This lack of speed makes avoiding the many obstacles initially tricky and ultimately infuriating; while the simple search ‘n’ collect gameplay is only marginally spiced up by the addition of progressive mind powers. Astaroth is a jaded old game concept tarted up with graphics of a sensationalist nature to add some much-needed interest. Bit of a sheep in wolf’s clothing, really.