Droid Special Edition is a fresh take on a classic run-and-gun platformer originally featured on the cover disk of ST Format magazine in 1992.
Developed by junosix, this Amiga port brings a nostalgic yet enhanced experience to players, leveraging the hardware capabilities of the Amiga to deliver a game that feels both familiar and new.
####Gameplay and Features
The game retains the core mechanics of the original *Droid*, combining platforming with action elements reminiscent of the Metroid series.
Players control a droid navigating through various levels, battling enemies and overcoming obstacles.
The Special Edition enhances the experience with full-screen 8-way scrolling, sampled sound, and music, which significantly improves the overall presentation compared to its predecessor.
The controls are intuitive, offering two types of configurations to accommodate different player preferences.
Players can move, jump, crouch, and shoot with ease, while additional mechanics like power jumps and weapon cycling add depth to the gameplay.
The inclusion of a trained version allows for unlimited grenades, although players must be cautious as this can hinder progression in later levels.
Control type 1
Left/Right – move left/right
Up – jump
Down – crouch
Down then Up – power jump
Button 1 – shoot weapon
Space or Button 2 – enter doors
Alt or Button 2 – cycle collected weapons
P – pause/show map
Esc – quit to title screen
Control type 2
Left/Right – move left/right
Button 2 – jump
Down – crouch
Down+Button 2 – power jump
Button 1 – shoot weapon
Space or Up – enter doors
Alt or Up+Button 2 – cycle collected weapons
P – pause/show map
Esc – quit to title screen
### Visuals and Sound
The graphics in Droid Special Edition are a notable improvement, showcasing vibrant animations and detailed environments that make good use of the Amiga’s capabilities.
However, some critiques have pointed out that the color palette can appear somewhat dull and repetitive, suggesting that further refinement could enhance the visual appeal.
The audio features sampled sounds and music that elevate the gaming experience, immersing players in the action.
The sound design effectively complements the gameplay, although some players have expressed a desire for a more dynamic soundtrack.
### Longevity and Community Response
Released as a PAL-only title on July 31, 2024, *Droid Special Edition* has garnered attention within the Amiga community, especially among fans of retro gaming.
While some fast Amiga models may experience graphical issues, the game is generally well-received for its nostalgic value and engaging gameplay.
The developer is actively addressing bugs and refining the game based on community feedback, which bodes well for its longevity.
