Download Gauntlet

Gauntlet was created by Atari INC. in 1988. This series has always been one of my favorite action arcade games and is in my opinion almost better than Super Mario Bros. 3.

After the title screen, you end up at the character selection screen. You have a choice between four characters you can play. You could choose Thor, with his lethal battle axe, or Thyra, the valkyrie, with her lethal magic sword. On the other hand, there is also Questor the elf, with his deadly aim, bow, and arrows, or perhaps Merlin, the wizard, with his bolts of lightning and fire will suite your taste. Each character attacks are equally powerful.

Gameplay seems simple at first, but, believe me, this game is hard. The controls consist of moving the character with the arrow keys, using enter to fire, and the spacebar to clear out enemies with magic. Enemies stream out of generators in the levels. Make sure you destroy the generators as quickly as possible, or otherwise hordes of enemies will surround you in no time and make sure your character is pushing up daisies. Enemies range from mummies to ghosts and even the Grim Reaper. Especially watch out for Grim, as he will slow you down so he can grab you. If he does grab you, he will quickly drain your health unless you destroy him. You may use magic potions to clear out all enemies on screen. Treasure is abundant on each level, so make sure you pick it up to increase your points. Eat meat to regain health, and make sure you pick up every key you see, as these can be used to open chests and doors.

As far as graphics go, they aren't the best, but they do not hinder the fun quality of the game. They can make it harder to tell what monster is which, though. The music in the game is your basic arcade music, but this adds to the good nastalgic feel of the game.

I enjoyed this game very much, and I doubt there is anyone out there who wouldn't. It's definitely a classic you shouldn't pass up on.