We’re wrapping up this series of Old Tyme video game favourites that have been morphed onto mobile gaming app platforms for the iPhone and Android mobile gamers’ enjoyment. This last instalment features a game or two for only the iPhone and a game or two for only the Android platforms. Let’s start with a benchmark game, shall we?
DONKEY.BAS
If you look at the game, you probably won’t find anything iconic about it: It’s a racing game with obstacles. However, it is an iconic game, for it is arguably the first PC game ever invented.
Hard-core or old-timer gamers know that the game of Pong was actually a playful accident, but DONKEY.BAS was the first game deliberately invented and placed on a personal computer. Really.
This tri-colour game – grey, white, and almost turquoise – uses graphics that are very basic in today’s world, but it holds its place in history proudly. Claim your race car and start your engines!
Don’t forget to dodge that pesky donkey that not only keeps appearing in your roadway path but jumps lanes in its dedicate to stop you from finishing it!
And it’s freely available for the iOS platform.
P.S. Did you know that Bill Gates helped design this game?
Commander Genius
Those of you familiar with the old game called Commander Keen will know this Android game instantly. Commander Genius is an unofficial graft of the old game, and sometimes, it’s functionality is a little weird, but the free Android app still brings fond memories to the fore and can help create new ones for those with short-term attention spans and especially for young kids – of most any age. If you don’t have to deal with the on-screen virtual controls, take it from us: The game is even more enjoyable. We’ve compared it on a full-touchscreen mobile phone and a QWERTY smartphone.
Try it either way. It’s not like you’re wasting your money: It’s free!