Genre: Action-adventure / Platformer
Publisher: Mastertronic Added Dimension
Developer: Mr Chip Software
Year: 1986
System: Amstrad CPC
Hero of the Golden Talisman is an action-adventure game developed by Mr Chip Software and published by Mastertronic Added Dimension (M.A.D.) for the Amstrad CPC in 1986. The game is set in a vast labyrinth where the player must navigate through various rooms to find and assemble the five pieces of the Golden Talisman. The talisman is the only means to lift the curse placed upon the protagonist’s hometown by an evil wizard.
The gameplay involves side-scrolling exploration across 512 screens, divided into five main areas. Players can jump, climb ropes, swim, and shoot, while collecting items such as keys, ropes, lanterns, and strength-augmenting flags. The game features a map to help players navigate the labyrinth and indicates the presence of items in each room. Combat is against various enemies, including dragons and jumping eyeballs, and players must manage resources like health and air supply when underwater.
Hero of the Golden Talisman is an early example of the Metroidvania genre, offering non-linear exploration and item-based progression. Its immersive gameplay and challenging puzzles have made it a memorable title for fans of classic action-adventure games.