Paradroid
C64 strategy welded to arcade reflexes
Andrew Braybrook’s 1985 masterpiece blended shooter action with territory control aboard a hijacked robot freighter.
Overview
Released in 1985 by Hewson Consultants, Paradroid puts you in charge of a cleaning droid attempting to seize control of a robot uprising. You roam deck plans, blast enemies, and hack into stronger robots via a tense transfer mini-game.
Fast facts
- Developer: Andrew Braybrook.
- Technology: scrolls smoothly at 50 Hz by carefully scheduling CPU time around VIC-II badlines.
- Reception: Zzap!64 awarded a rare “Gold Medal,” praising its depth and polish.
Legacy
Paradroid inspired sequels (Paradroid ’90) and spiritual successors. Its blend of arcade action with tactical planning remains a touchstone for C64 aficionados and modern indie designers alike.