Trolls

A fun platform game from Flair Software, Trolls features great graphics, smooth-as-silk animations, and very good level design that characterizes all Flair releases.

You control a Troll of the title, who's not the ugly lumber monster from AD&D realm, but a cute gnome-like mischievous creature. Your mission is to collect baby Trolls from the levels, which can be completed in any order. You dispose of the enemies in true Super Mario style: by jumping on them, although some are so tough that the only way to remain alive is to avoid them.

One of the game's attractions is the wide variety of power-ups and points, the most common being balloons, which burst upon impact to reveal useful items. Although you don't need to collect every baby Troll to continue to the next land, you will need some to progress.

Trolls deserves mention as one of the few Amiga classics that were converted almost flawlessly to the PC. The vibrant graphics are excellent, with so much detail and colorful backdrops that replaying the same level is a pleasure rather than a nuisance. Each level is huge, with many hidden platforms and bonuses to discover. Reflexes, as well as a keen eye (to watch out for those dangerous cliff drops) are needed to keep up with the action.

With spotless animations, varied levels, and solid play controls, Trolls is a must have for fans of platform games. Highly recommended, and be sure to check out Flair's Oscar, another great platform release based on the improved engine.

Review By HOTUD