Hunters Moon Remastered brings a classic Commodore 64 title back with a striking overhaul and a wealth of fresh content. Originally launched in 1987, the game combines strategic action with precision shooting, set against the backdrop of alien hive worlds. This remastered edition delivers an expanded experience that both revisits and reimagines the original.
A Fight for Navigation Data
The story begins with the player piloting the Hunter, a ship drawn dangerously close to a black hole. Lost on the far side of the galaxy, the only hope of returning home lies within sprawling hive-cities. These alien constructions guard Starcells—vital data sources for plotting a course back.
Every level challenges the player to blast pathways through the hive’s structure to reach these Starcells. The task is complicated by tireless Worker cells that repair damage and activate defenses. These defenses launch spores, making the ship’s Perma-Shields essential for survival.
Expansive Systems and Varied Threats
Hunters Moon Remastered offers more than 180 levels across 21 star systems. Completing a level opens a bonus game where players can earn shields and extra lives. Collecting four flashing Starcells provides an instant system jump, a reward for sharp skill and quick play.
New hive types expand the challenge. Attackers release waves of spores, Darkcells remain invisible except on radar, Switchers shift direction unexpectedly, and Jumpgates randomly reposition. Blackouts plunge the entire hive into darkness, forcing navigation by instinct and memory. These mechanics combine to keep the gameplay tense and varied.
Remaster Enhancements
This edition adds over 50 new levels and five new star systems, introducing unique layouts and strategies. Enhanced visual presentation includes new intro and outro sequences, a richer parallax starfield, and multi-language support in French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
New gameplay modes cater to both newcomers and veterans. A Trainer version allows for a gentler start, while a Random Mode scrambles challenges for seasoned players. Progress is saved automatically, removing the frustration of lost sessions.
Music and sound have been refreshed, with composer Matt Gray providing a modern score that still feels authentic to the C64’s SID chip heritage. A built-in level editor lets players create and share their own designs, extending replay value far beyond the main game.
Versions and Compatibility
Hunters Moon Remastered is available in multiple formats. The digital download is intended for C64 emulators such as VICE 3.1+, with packages including either the game files alone or bundled with the emulator for easy setup. A special C64 Mini edition is also provided, complete with a CJM configuration file, though saving within the game or editor must be handled through the Mini’s own save system.
For collectors, the physical cartridge release includes a boxed edition with manual, postcard, sticker, and additional extras. This version works on both PAL and NTSC systems, ensuring compatibility across regions.
Original Included
For historical comparison, the original 1987 game is included alongside the remastered version. This allows players to appreciate the improvements while still enjoying the challenge and charm of the original release.
Credits
- Design, Code, Graphics, SFX: Martin Walker
- Soundtrack: Matt Gray
- Remastering, Additional Code: Dan Hotop
- Cinematics: Robin Levy, Martin Piper
- Additional Graphics: Ste Day
- Production: Andy Roberts
- Cover Artwork: Oliver Frey
Hunters Moon Remastered successfully balances faithful preservation with creative expansion. It remains a thoughtful blend of strategy and action, rewarding quick reflexes, patience, and an eye for opportunity.
