DESCRIPTION

In a game that's a retro homage in every way, you pilot a spaceship through twisting caverns and such obstacles as force fields, gun batteries, and your own dwindling fuel supply (which can be replenished by blasting the enemy's fuel tanks). If it sounds a little like Vanguard, wait until you see the other classic coin-op tributes: the tunnels are populated by characters from Pac-Man, Phoenix, Tron, and other bizarre objects like invincible Rubik's Cubes (which only change colors when shot).

Like its inspiration, Cavern Creatures does lead to an eventual goal — the game's final "boss" is an enormous (and rather well-armed) Apple II computer which must be destroyed to beat the game. It's not impossible to reach that stage, however, though the game doesn't increase in difficulty when it begins again. Despite being one of a few thousand or so "budget" titles for the Apple II, Cavern Creatures is notable for being ahead of its time with its retro video game "guest stars," and has surprisingly good graphics for the Apple (but only minimalist sound — barely a buzz when you blow something up). It's actually quite addictive, partially for the interesting scenery in later levels. ~ Earl Green, All Game Guide