Pipeline (video game)
Pipeline is a computer game for the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron, originally published by Superior Software in 1989.
Storyline
The game is a four-way scrolling arcade adventure with a look similar to previous Superior hits Repton and Ravenskull, set on a mining platform above Io, the sulfur-rich moon of Jupiter.
The game came with graphics and level designers, allowing players to design their own game scenarios incorporating key-door, exploding object, moving wall, transport puzzles in the style of Sokoban, teleports and other simple kinds of puzzle logic.
Game development
The developers' original game concept, strongly influenced by Ravenskull, was of progress through medieval guilds in a fantasy setting: the working title was 'GuildMaster'. A change in direction was suggested by Superior Software director Richard Hanson, who commented that "'GuildMaster' sounds like an application".
The name 'Pipeline' was agreed upon due to the gameplay element of fast transport to distant parts of the map through topologically interwoven pipes (novel on the BBC micro at the time; see Super Mario Bros. or Sonic the Hedgehog for other well-known examples).
Instead of a medieval city, Hanson suggested setting the game on a contemporary oil platform with a red-headed protagonist nicknamed Red O'Hare (a satire on Red Adair). This plotline was, however, quickly changed again to a science-fictional setting, following the Piper Alpha disaster.
The game was written by two 15 year olds, Ian Holmes and William Reeve.
See also
External links
- Review at beebgames.com: http://www.beebgames.com/games.php?company=3&start=61
- A PC conversion of the game is available from Superior Interactive: http://www.superiorinteractive.com/pipelineplus/