Titan

Game review

Released in 1989, Titan presents a unique blend of arcade action and puzzle-solving elements, set against the backdrop of a futuristic game invented by a mad professor named Hybrys. In this perilous game called Titan, players are thrust into an arena comprising 80 labyrinths, each filled with destructible blocks, hazardous obstacles, and a relentless black ball that must be guided to destroy blocks or find its way to the exit.

The game's core mechanic revolves around the manipulation of a control unit, a small box that players can move around the edges of the labyrinth. The black ball, which moves at a constant speed and bounces off walls in straight or diagonal paths, is beyond direct control. Instead, players must strategically position the control unit to alter the ball’s trajectory, aiming to either obliterate all destructible blocks in a level or navigate it towards the exit.

One of the game's intriguing features is the ability to catch the sphere by quickly moving the control unit over it, allowing players to then release the ball in a direction of their choosing. This mechanic adds a layer of strategic depth to the game, as players must not only react swiftly to the ball's movements but also plan their next moves to navigate through the labyrinth effectively.

Titan's labyrinths are fraught with challenges beyond mere blocks. Skull symbols represent lethal hazards that cost the player one of their nine lives upon contact with either the sphere or the control unit. Teleporters add a twist by swapping the positions of the player and the ball, while wall pieces can be manipulated or destroyed to clear paths. Moreover, floor tiles that transform into walls after being passed over multiple times introduce an additional layer of complexity, requiring players to carefully consider their routes.

To aid in navigating these intricacies, Titan offers the ability to slow down the game's high speed by holding the space key, a feature that proves invaluable in particularly challenging situations. This blend of fast-paced arcade action and thoughtful puzzle-solving demands both quick reflexes and strategic planning, making Titan a standout title that challenges players to think on their feet while managing the indirect control of the ever-moving sphere.