A Look Back at 1989: 'Test your skills on these new simulations'

The cover for the Strike Fleet computer game developed by Lucasfilm Games and Electronic Arts. I had the Apple II version, which had similar artwork. Note: Strike Fleet did not feature an Iowa-class battleship in gameplay. (C) 1987 Lucasfilm Games and Electronic Arts

Test your skills on these new simulations 

(Originally published in the April 20, 1989 issue of Catalyst)
Alex Diaz-Granados
Spectrum Editor

Since the advent of the personal computer over a decade ago, millions of PC owners have enjoyed the challenge of computer games and simulations. Although arcade-style programs such as Pac-Man and Galaxian are popular, most computer game aficionados prefer the more complicated "simulations that are increasing in realism, complexity and variety.

Datasoft's The Hunt for Red October, based on Tom Clancy's 1984 best-selling novel, is a simulation of a Soviet Typhoon-class nuclear missile sub which is attempting to defect to the United States. Problem is, both the U.S. and Soviet navies are searching for the Red October, and players must evade some of the world's most powerful warships and reach the U.S. east coast - or be sunk. (Didn't read the book? Red October comes with a copy of Clancy's thriller.

Click here to watch a playthrough of Strike Fleet.

Lucasfilm Games' Strike Fleet is another naval simulation but on a grander scale. This time, a player can choose from 10 different scenarios and command fleets of up to 16 vessels, all accurately detailed to the last Harpoon missile. The computer commands the enemy vessels, ranging from Iranian speedboats to the dreaded Kirov-class battle cruiser. The realistic graphics, fast pace and accurate depiction of modern naval warfare make Strike Fleet a must get for the avid wargamer.

For those who prefer international competition in the sports arena rather than the battlefield, Epyx's Olympic Games series (Summer Games, Summer Games II and Winter Games) allow up to eight players to compete in the major Olympic events, including the pole vault, skeet shooting and figure skating. Over 16 different nations are represented, and there's even an opening ceremony. Again, the graphics and pace of the games are excellent.