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Based on the hit arcade game, Cabal is an action game in every sense of the word. Light on story and heavy on action, success is determined largely by reflexes and quick thinking. While not quite up to the standards set by Contra and Nam 1975, Cabal offers an adrenaline-filled romp through 20 stages of intense action. Just be sure to check your brain at the door.

Aside from a choice of one or two-player action, Cabal offers absolutely nothing in terms of extras. While they would certainly improve the longevity of the game, the absence of extras isn't lamentable due largely to the sheer excellence of the main mode of play.

Gameplay basics consist of shooting at anything that moves while avoiding gunfire. But there is more to the game -- learning enemy attack patterns is an integral part of the strategy and must be mastered to advance further than the first few levels. Knowing when to go on the offensive and when to run for cover is equally important. Since you cannot move while firing, the ability to pick the opportune time to do each is vital. Fortunately, enemy bullets can be destroyed -- doing so often allows extra maneuvering room and can even save your life.

From the opening locale of a war-torn village, you move on to a number of hostile environments such as a beach, jungle area and enemy-controlled harbor as the game progresses. Although the environments aren't limited to these locations, each stage is filled with enemy soldiers, all intent on your demise. Military hardware is a concern as well with helicopters, planes, tanks and trucks just a few of the obstacles encountered as you advance deeper into enemy territory.

Some of the most enjoyable features in the game are the interactive elements within each stage. Nearly everything you see can be destroyed which often leads to receipt of power ups, ranging from grenades to score bonuses. Conversely, some annoying minor control anomalies, such as use of the spacebar to throw grenades, mar an otherwise great game, though they're not game killers.

Despite its lack of play modes and relatively short length, Cabal is enjoyable. Although the game can be beaten within an hour, the sheer addictive quality of gameplay all but guarantees a replay session. Two-player mode, although unfortunately not simultaneous, is immensely rewarding since competing for the highest score is almost as fun as beating the game.

A good port of a great arcade game, Cabal is a top-notch entry for the Commodore 64. While the premise may be simple and gameplay similar to other titles in the genre, Cabal, in small doses, provides some great gaming.



Graphics 3

Sporting some great-looking sprites and well-drawn environments, Cabal is a testament to the Commodore 64's power. Slowdown is non-existent, even when the screen is filled with bullets. A few more animation routines would have improved the look of the characters but is a minor point.

Sound 2.5

Gunfire and explosions permeate the action throughout. There is no soundtrack but in this title, it isn't needed. Overall, Cabal presents a decent aural package.

Enjoyment 3

The single-player mode is a lot of fun but, with a friend, the game's enjoyment level rises exponentially. Everyone enjoys a little mindless action now and then and this game fits the bill perfectly.

Replay Value 2

The game is incredibly short and the lack of extra modes doesn't help. The addictive quality of gameplay, though, assures some level of replay, especially in short bursts of time.

Documentation 1.5

A small black and white leaflet describes most everything you need to know in only a few paragraphs.