Star Trek: The Motion Picture for the Vectrex follows the plot of the movie of the same name, where players take control of the USS Enterprise and must navigate through various sectors of space to intercept an alien force threatening Earth. The game captures the essence of the Star Trek universe by incorporating elements such as phaser battles, warp speed travel, and encounters with alien ships.
Gameplay
Players control the Enterprise using the Vectrex controller to maneuver through space, avoiding obstacles and engaging in battles with enemy ships. The game features different levels of difficulty, with players needing to strategize and make split-second decisions to successfully complete each mission. The gameplay is fast-paced and requires quick reflexes to outmaneuver and defeat the enemy forces.
Graphics and Audio
Star Trek: The Motion Picture for the Vectrex features monochromatic vector graphics that are crisp and detailed, bringing the space battles to life on the screen. The game’s audio includes sound effects that enhance the immersive experience, such as phaser blasts, warp engine sounds, and communication alerts from Starfleet Command.
Difficulty
The game offers varying levels of difficulty to cater to players of different skill levels. Novice players can start with easier missions to familiarize themselves with the controls, while more experienced players can challenge themselves with harder levels that require advanced tactics and quick decision-making.
Reception
Star Trek: The Motion Picture received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its faithful adaptation of the movie and challenging gameplay, while others criticized its simplistic graphics and lack of depth. Despite the mixed reception, the game has gained a cult following among Star Trek fans and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Legacy
While Star Trek: The Motion Picture may not have been a commercial success, it remains a notable entry in the Vectrex library and a nostalgic reminder of the early days of video game adaptations of popular franchises. The game’s legacy lives on through fan communities and retro gaming conventions, where players can still experience the thrill of commanding the USS Enterprise in a battle against alien adversaries.
Genre: Space Shooter
Developer: GCE
Publisher: Milton Bradley
Platform: Vectrex
Release Date: 1982