The concept of sand worms and spice in adaptations has historically been challenging, as seen with Elland: The Crystal Wars, a game that was cancelled at 95% completion and clearly inspired by Dune. While the game lacks actual characters from the book, it focuses on dogfights amidst a backdrop of war.
Despite its flaws, Elland: The Crystal Wars offers cutting-edge gameplay for the Game Boy Advance era. The lock-on mechanics can be questionable, and some levels are nearly impossible without disabling them. The game emphasizes the skills of fighter pilots due to the absence of thinking machines, adding a level of difficulty.
Elland: The Crystal Wars offers a challenging yet fun experience. The game’s uniqueness lies in its retro design, ensuring a focus on shooting down aircraft and bases. Mission objectives, such as collecting crystals, can be tricky, adding to the overall challenge and satisfaction upon completion.
The game’s puzzle-like gameplay and use of a password system add an old-school charm. The mission-specific difficulties and strategic approach make Elland: The Crystal Wars engaging and rewarding. Despite its niche appeal, the game’s revival by RetroRoomgames showcases its enduring value and playability.
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Original article by www.oldschoolgamermagazine.com