X-Out (video game)

X-Out is a horizontally scrolling shooter with eight levels set underwater. It was released by Rainbow Arts in 1989 for the Commodore 64, and in 1990 for the Amiga, Atari ST, ZX Spectrum, and Amstrad CPC.

X-Out
Cover art
Developer(s)Arc Development
Rainbow Arts
Platform(s)Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST, Commodore 64, Sinclair ZX Spectrum,
Release1989: C64
1990: Amiga, ST, Spectrum, CPC
Genre(s)Scrolling shooter
Mode(s)Single-player

Gameplay

Before starting the game and between levels, the player visits a shop and uses their game score to purchase new submarines and equipment. The submarines come in four different variants, and additional purchases act as additional "lives". Each can be equipped with a one-way, two-way or three-way fire weapon of increasing power (and thus cost). Secondary weapons include sonic waves, power-shots and target-seeking missiles. The player can also purchase auxiliary satellites and specify their movement pattern, which can be circular orbits, vertical and horizontal movements, or an intercepting action.

Reception

The ZX Spectrum version achieved critical success. Your Sinclair gave it a score of 84%, highlighting the comprehensive shop sequence and large, well-animated enemies. Criticisms included the monochrome graphics which were said to be a little confusing, and the lack of a sense of danger.[1] A retrospective review for the Amiga version from HonestGamers scored the game 4/5, praising some of the game's atypical design choices, but complaining that the final stage outstays its welcome.[2]

Naming

During the time of release, there was some debate as to whether the game was actually pronounced "cross out" or "X out" ("ex out").[1] However, the cassette version of the Commodore 64 release displays "Loading Crossout" at the beginning of the loading process. Also, in both Amiga and C64 versions, the synthesized voice in the introduction says, "Get ready for Crossout." The sequel Z-Out abandons this pronunciation pattern.

References
  1. Bielby, Matt (March 1990). "X-Out review". Your Sinclair. No. 51. p. 56.
  2. Hartley, Gary (December 2020). "X-Out review". HonestGamers.
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