Frankie Goes to Hollywood (Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum)

ZX Spectrum
Box Art

Released in 1985, Frankie Goes to Hollywood was a computer game developed by Denton Designs and published by Ocean Software Ltd. The game was based on the teachings of the UK band of the same name and was released for the Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and ZX Spectrum home computers. This game was a perfect blend of adventure, puzzle, and mini-games, making it an instant hit among the gaming community. The objective of the game is to become interesting enough to reach the Pleasuredome, and to do this, the player takes on the role of a thoroughly drab, mundane and predictable character. The player starts the game in 1980s Liverpool and must explore the streets and houses in the search of a way out. The main basis of the game involves picking up objects and using them in the correct way - most objects have more than one potential use, and misusing them is the only way the game can be lost. Along the way, the player discovers a gruesome murder, and this sparks their desire for something more than the monotony of everyday life.

The game features several sub-games along the way, including shoot 'em ups, a maze, and a jigsaw puzzle. These mini-games are not only fun but also help boost the player's four attributes, namely sex, war, love, and faith. These attributes are represented by icons, and to reach the Pleasuredome, the player must boost all four attributes to 99%.

Your average block of terraced housing
ZX Spectrum Version

One of the most unique and interesting aspects of the game is the murder mystery. All the rooms the player can visit contain clues in order to find the murderer. The clues are in pairs, helping eliminate suspects. For example, the player may be told "The killer is an atheist" and "Mr Somebody is a regular church-goer" - so Mr Somebody would be innocent. In theory, the game cannot be completed without making the correct accusation (by returning to the room with the body) - there is a large bonus of Pleasure Points for naming the killer.

C64 Gameplay

Credit DerSchmu on YouTube

Same terraced houses Amstrad Version

The game received positive reviews from critics and users. Roy Wagner from Computer Gaming World stated that "The graphics and game play are well done. I think you will find it an interesting game." The game was also included in several "best of" lists, such as Your Sinclair's Top 100 Best Spectrum Games of All Time at number 71 and Commodore Force's top 100 Commodore 64 games at number one. Some of the other critics also gave high scores such as Your Commodore, Computer Gamer, Zzap!, Computer and Video Games, 64'er, and Amstrad Action.

In conclusion, Frankie Goes to Hollywood was not just an ordinary game but an experience that captured the essence of the band and its teachings. The game is a perfect blend of adventure, puzzle, and mini-games, and its unique murder mystery added a new dimension to the gameplay. It's a game that stood the test of time and continues to be a fan favorite among retro gamers. It's a game that is worth revisiting, and even today, it is still a challenging and enjoyable experience.