Starquake (video game)

Starquake is a 2D, side-scrolling, platform-adventure game created by Nigel Alderton and published by Bubble Bus Software in 1985. It was initially released for the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron home computers.

The game revolves around the player character, a blob-like creature named Quake, who must traverse a vast, underground world to prevent a star from collapsing and exploding, thus causing a "starquake." The player must navigate a complex network of tunnels, caverns, and lava-filled chambers, collecting various objects and using them to solve puzzles to ultimately reach the star's core.

Gameplay is characterized by challenging platforming sections, resource management (primarily oxygen), and a non-linear world structure that encourages exploration. Quake can jump, move left and right, and collect items. Oxygen is essential for survival as Quake rapidly depletes his supply while moving. Oxygen can be replenished by collecting oxygen tanks scattered throughout the levels.

The world of Starquake is rendered in a distinctive, blocky style, typical of games from the 8-bit era. The game is notable for its sheer size and the difficulty level, considered quite high by many players. The objective is not explicitly stated; instead, the player gains information about the impending starquake and the solution by exploring the environment and experimenting with collected objects.

Starquake received critical acclaim upon its release and is remembered as a classic title for the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron. Its expansive world, challenging gameplay, and unique atmosphere contributed to its lasting popularity. It is also known for its unusual death sequence, in which Quake simply freezes in place, mid-jump, rather than exploding or disappearing.