Stellar 7

Stellar 7 is a 3D sci-fi tank simulator created by Demon Slye for the Apple II and Commodore 64 in 1983. Clearly inspired by the classic arcade Battlezone, Stellar 7 puts the player in the seat of a super tank, with the task of defending the solar system from the evil invaders. The hero should fight the enemies in 7 different systems (hence the title Stellar 7) until the final battle with the overlord Gir Draxon and his powerful tank. Of course, due to the limitation of 8-bit computers, the game was entirely rendered with wireframes.

Stellar 7 was followed by a sequel, Arcticfox, released in 1986. A few years later, Dynamix decided to release a completely revamped version of the original Stellar 7 for PC and Amiga. The game graphics were completely redesigned, with the engine was now supporting 3D-filled polygons. Sound effects, music, and excellent cutscenes were added. The plot, merely outlined in the original game, is now fully explained, improving the player experience. At the same time, Dynamix decided not to change any element of the game design or even the map of the levels, the enemies, and the bosses. A great choice. I wish all remakes were like this.

Not all players appreciated this release, due to the slow 3D engine, but thanks to the emulators, we can now enjoy it without problems. Have fun!