


The Chaos Engine, by the Bitmap Brothers
CD-32 version, 1-2 players
The Amiga and, now, the CD-32 have the best top-down, Commando style shooters in the whole of the gaming industry, because of two titles- Alien Breed Tower Assault and the Chaos Engine. On the CD-32, the Chaos Engine didn't really gain anything from it's previous floppy versions except some CD sounds and that's unfortunate.
	Of course, the game itself was almost perfect anyway so I didn't mind as much as I usually would. And, Chaos Engine still has the most accommodating 2 player mode ever- much better Alien Breed's past tendency for a rather clumsy and claustrophobic two player mode. There are 6 characters to choose from in CE, all with different weapons and ability scores. Also, there are secrets galore to discover as you traverse the landscapes destroying everything in your sights.
	It's no wonder that Commodore had planned to put this game in as the CD-32's pack-in. It's even in NTSC mode, so you don't have to go through the PAL set-up motions. There's really not much more to add about the Chaos Engine that hasn't already been said. Even the cartridge versions( called Soldiers of Fortune) received high praise and awards. If you don't have any of the other versions, then this is the best version- the atmospheric sounds are great and eerily real sounding at times. The game also makes excellent use of the CD-32's controller. The opening sequence has been revamped with some animation and full narration. Too bad the ending is the same, but it's passable, if too short. This is definitely a must-have CD-32 game and for those upgrading, all your old passwords work as well. The CD-32 Chaos Engine is a fantastic game, just like the Amiga floppy versions have always been. If you like hard-edged, arcade action, this is one to have. I only hope that the Bitmap Brothers come out with a sequel.
