UK Gaming Network’s latest Amiga Re:Review takes a detailed look at Assassin, the 1992 action-platformer developed by Psionic Systems and published by Team17. Known for Alien Breed and Project X, Team17’s decision to publish a game from an external developer raised eyebrows at the time. In this Assassin Amiga review, host UKGN Zoidberg revisits the title’s history, reception, and gameplay to see how it holds up today.
Origins and Development
Assassin was Psionic Systems’ follow-up to Dojo Dan, with programmer David Broadhurst and artist Hayden Dalton aiming for an arcade-inspired adventure similar to Strider. Released in late 1992, the game featured fluid animations, multi-directional boomerang combat, and large, exploration-heavy levels. Alistair Brimble’s soundtrack added to the atmosphere. Despite strong critical reception—averaging 88.5% in major Amiga magazines—sales were modest.
A 1994 budget re-release, Assassin: Special Edition, removed the opening level, swapped the boomerang for a laser gun, and made other adjustments. While it sold slightly better, many fans still preferred the original’s design.
Gameplay and Impressions
The Assassin Amiga review highlights the game’s strengths—smooth scrolling, crisp visuals, and a unique boomerang weapon—alongside its frustrations. Power-ups require shooting through letter cycles to select the desired effect, breaking the game’s pace unless using the auto-selection option. Level timers discourage thorough exploration, despite maps built for it.
The playtest section showcases power-up mechanics, enemy patterns, and boss encounters, noting both satisfying moments and irritating design choices. UKGN Zoidberg finds the original version more enjoyable than the Special Edition, though still not without flaws.
Final Verdict
In this Assassin Amiga review, the conclusion is clear: Assassin is visually polished and technically strong but occasionally undermines its own fun. It remains a recommended play for Amiga fans, especially those curious about Team17’s first collaboration with an external developer, earning a final score of 6/10.
