Slymoids
Slymoids is an action/shooter video game distributed by Texas Instruments (TI) for the TI/99/4A home computer system. It was programmed by James R. Von Ehr II and converted for cartridge use by John Phillips and released during the first quarter of 1984 on Solid State SoftwareTM Command Module. It originally sold for $29.95 (USD).
| Slymoids | |
|---|---|
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| Publisher(s) | Texas Instruments (TI) |
| Original Retail Price | $29.95 (USD) |
| Programmer(s) | James R. Von Ehr II converted for TI-99/4A by John Phillips |
| Part# | PHM 3197 |
| Format(s) | Solid State SoftwareTM Command Module |
| Release | 1984 (1st Quarter) |
| Genre(s) | Action, Shooter |
Contents
Gameplay
The player in Slymoids controls a cowboy tasked with fighting off the "Slymoids" armed with his trusty pistol. These creatures approach the player either from the horizon or from the sky. The player can shoot up at the Slymoids descending from the sky, or side to side at those approaching from the horizon. The player can control his/her cowboy moving either left or right in search of the enemies. The game takes place in three different locations: 1. in a city, 2. along the coast line, and 3. in a cavern. The player gets to choose from 4 different levels of difficulty to begin the game.
Advertising Blurbs
Front Cover of Manual
You are a sharp-shooting cowboy battling hordes of alien Slymoids. Attack them on grassy slopes, in castles, and in caves. Shoot quickly before the creatures overpower you!
Triton Catalog - Spring 1984
A 1-player arcade entertainment. Fiendishly clever alien Slymoids are attacking. You're a cowboy sharp-shooter - and you've got to be, to score hits with your Slymoid Scanner and Laser Fireballs! Chase through fields, castles and caves. 3-D effects and 5 levels of difficulty enhance the fun. (Wired Remote Controllers recommended.)
Fun Facts
- Texas Instruments was concerned that the theme music that James Von Ehr II created for the game was actually stolen from another source. He had actually created it years earlier on his home-built analog synthesizer controlled by his Apple II computer. [3]
- Programmer James Von Ehr II placed a couple of Easter Eggs in Slymoids. Inside of the castle around the swords that hang on the wall can be seen the initials JVONEHR and GVONEHR James and his wife's (Gayla) initials. Gayla is credited by James as having offered helpful design suggestions for the game. [4]
Manual
Introduction
In this one-player game, you are a sharp-shooting cowboy-the last defense against the hordes of alien Slymoids. Use your Slymoid Scanner and Laser Fireball Weapon to locate and destroy these strange life forms. The devious Slymoids also appear in two other forms-Jelloids and Spores. Chase the Slymoids through fields, castles, and caves. But beware! The crafty Slymoids have turned spiders, bats, and even rocks against you.
With Slymoids you can:
- Experience multi-screen graphics
- Enjoy graphics that create a 3-D effect
- Choose from 5 levels of difficulty
- Use Wired Remote Controllers (joysticks) or keyboard control
- Hear special sounds that warn you a creature is about to appear
Playing the Game
When the game begins, you are located in one of three battlefields: a grassy slope, a castle, or a cave. You can destroy some creatures with a single shot. Other creatures must be shot several times before they are eliminated. As each battlefield is cleared of Slymoids, you move to another location. If you are victorious, you progress to the next level of difficulty. Destroy all the Slymoids before they overcome your cowboys.
Special Keys
| Key | Function |
| AID | Goes to demonstration game. |
| REDO or BACK | Returns to the title screen BACK from the demonstration game. |
| SPACE BAR or P | Pauses during the game. Press any key to resume play. |
Selecting Playing Levels and Locations
The numbers 1-5 on the title screen represent the levels of play (1 is the easiest level; 5 is the hardest). An asterisk moves under the levels of play.
To choose a level of play, press any key ( other than the number keys) when the asterisk is under the level of play you desire.
There are also four battle locations in the game. Location 1 is a grassy slope. Location 2 is inside a castle. Location 3 is a grassy slope. Location 4 is inside a cave.
When the asterisk appears under the level of play you desire, press 1, 2, 3, or 4 to choose a specific location.
Reserve Cowboys
In addition to the character on the screen, you have 3 cowboys in reserve at the beginning of the game.
When a cowboy bites the dust, he is automatically replaced by one of the remaining cowboys.
When you eliminate all the creatures from one location, the screen goes black. Then, a new location appears and you receive an additional reserve cowboy.
Downloads
1980 The Attack Prototype Cartridge (Pink and White Label on Black Cartridge)
1981 The Attack Prototype Cartridge (Black Label on Blue and Black Cartridge)
1981 The Attack Cartridge (Black Label on Black Cartridge)
1983 The Attack Cartridge (Red Label on Beige Cartridge)
The Attack Manual Front Cover (Old-Style)
The Attack Manual Front Cover (New-Style)
The Attack Complete Manual (pdf format)
The Attack MAME/MESS ROM (rpk format)
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