The Curse Of Bolda
The Curse of Bolda was the second title released for the Atari ST by LedaSoft Developments Inc. The disk images contained in the ZIP archive require a suitable emulator, such as STEem, to play.
The Curse of Bolda was written in STOS Basic by Mandarin Software, using Top Notch's Missing Link extension and sections of 68000 assembly language. Combining platform action and puzzle solving, and featuring LedaSoft's mascot character "Kev", it was released in 1994 at a time when the Atari and similar machines were beginning to lose ground to PCs in the home market.
Objective:
Guide Kev across five levels of platform action, each split into three stages. In the first two stages of each level Kev can move freely, using the tools he finds along with the various switches, buttons and locks to obtain the required number of gems and unlock the exit. The third stage of each level automatically scrolls and Kev must navigate the various hazards while collecting gems, until confronting the rock demon Bolda at the end of each level.
Starting up (written for STEem):
Save the two Atari ST disk images into the appropriate folder. Drag the curse-a image to the emulator A drive and the curse-b image to the B drive then reset the emulator - this will then load the Atari GEM desktop. Open drive A and double-click the file "curse.prg". The game will then load and run, automatically detecting the data disk in drive B and loading accordingly.
Gameplay screen:
The top status panel displays Kev's remaining energy, how much time remainsto complete the level, the current score and how many lives remain. The bottom status panel displays how many of each of the six tools Kev has available, whether or not a key is currently carried, and the number of gems currently found.
Playing:
As Kev moves around each stage, he will find various items to help him on his way. Among these are six tools (see below) - these are in round, red containers and picked up on touch. When picked up, these are carried by Kev and used as required. Tools can be carried from stage to stage (but not level to level) - sometimes it is essential to carry quantities of certain tools from one stage to another in order to complete them.
In addition to these tools, extra lives, time and health can be found.
Other features Kev can use are:
Buttons and Switches - These can open or close walls, move platforms, make things appear...
Locks - Like Buttons and switches, but need keys and cannot be reversed.
Star Posts - Restart points (denoted by a switch with a star on the top). When Kev loses a life, the next life will start at the last of these switches activated.
Controls:
Up: Jump, fly up (when using jetpack)
Down: Press button, pull switch, go through door, fly down (when using jetpack)
Left: Move left, stop (on third stage)
Right: Move right, go fast (on third stage)
Fire: Shoot
F1: Use invicibility tool
F2: Use jetpack tool, allowing Kev to fly for a limited time
F3: Use super-jump tool - Kev's next jump will go extra high
F4: Use firepower tool, granting Kev's shots double damage for a limited time
F5: Use pickaxe tool - Kev can cling onto walls for a limited time
F6: Use fire extinguisher tool - Kev will put out fires in front of him
P: Pause
HELP (ST): Restart current stage with all tools, enemies etc. reset
UNDO (ST): Quit game
Pressing F1 on the title screen will allow entry of level access codes.