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PlanetfallPlanetfall is a science fiction interactive fiction computer game written by Steve Meretzky and published by Infocom in 1983. Like most Infocom games, because of its portable Z-machine, it was released for several platforms simultaneously. The original release included versions for the PC (as a booter and DOS) and Apple II. The Atari ST and Commodore 64 versions were released in 1985. Although Planetfall was Meretzky's first title, it proved one of his most popular works and a best-seller for Infocom. Plot The game starts with the user assuming the role of a lowly Ensign Seventh Class on a starship of the Stellar Patrol. Reporting to Ensign First Class Blather, an overbearing superior, the player is relegated to the task of mopping decks. An explosion aboard the ship sends the player scrambling for an escape pod, which eventually crash lands on a nearby planet. There are signs of civilization, but curiously no traces of the beings that once lived there. Eventually encountering a helpful but childlike robot named Floyd, the player must unravel the mysteries of the deserted sole structure on the planet and find a way to get back home. As the fate of the planet's former inhabitants becomes clearer, a time limit also imposes itself. Details The concept of a NPC sidekick (Floyd) was new for Infocom games. Floyd would follow the player from location to location and interaction with him was required in order to complete the game. Since the release of Deadline, Infocom had included extra content in their game packages called "feelies". The feelies for Planetfall included: - A Stellar Patrol "Special Assignment Task Force" ID card (about the size and shape of a credit card)
- 3 interstellar postcards
- A Stellar Patrol recruting manual, "Today's Stellar Patrol"
- Letters (presumedly to home)
The success of this game inspired a novel of the same name and a sequel called Stationfall. The 1987 sequel once again incorporated Floyd, but more as a supporting character than a constant companion. Additionally, Stationfall was much more grim in tone than original, and did not sell as well as the more light-hearted Planetfall. External links
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