In this Space Taxi C64 Review, the C64 Appreciation Society revisits one of the system’s most charming and challenging games. Developed by John Kutcher and published by MUSE Software in 1984, Space Taxi puts players in the pilot seat of a gravity-defying cab. Your goal? Deliver passengers quickly and safely across 24 increasingly chaotic levels—earning tips and avoiding disaster along the way.
Born from Bedroom Coding
The video starts by exploring the game’s fascinating origin story. Teenager John Kutcher developed Rescue Squad while still in high school. MUSE Software, best known for Castle Wolfenstein, took notice and published the title in 1983. Encouraged by its success, Kutcher started building a new game engine in Assembly while studying at Johns Hopkins. That engine became the foundation for Space Taxi.
Intense Gameplay with Real Consequences
In Space Taxi, your cab is powered by thrusters and constantly pulled downward by gravity. Every move counts. Landings must be soft and precise. Fuel is limited. Crash into anything—or land too hard—and your fare ends in flames. You earn money for each passenger, plus a bonus tip for speed and smooth landings. However, rushing often leads to hilarious failure.
Creative Level Design Keeps You Hooked
The game includes 24 levels across three shifts: Morning, Day, and Night. Each level introduces new challenges—like bouncing ping pong balls, swirling snowflakes, or reversed controls. One standout level supercharges your thrusters, making even tiny movements dangerous. This variety keeps gameplay fresh and difficult, but never unfair. Controls remain tight and responsive throughout.
Hidden Level and Fun Surprises
Beat all 24 levels in one run and you’ll unlock the secret 25th stage: Welcome to MUSEWORLD. It features fun Easter eggs from other MUSE games, including Rescue Squad and Castle Wolfenstein. It’s a light-hearted reward after a seriously tough ride.
Graphics and Sound That Still Impress
Space Taxi mixes charming low-res backgrounds with vibrant sprites. Its standout feature, though, is the digitized voice work. Kutcher created his own recording hardware and altered pitch for different characters. Catchy tunes and satisfying sound effects add extra polish.
A Lasting Legacy
The Space Taxi C64 Review reminds us why this game continues to earn praise. Nominated for Action Game of the Year and loved by developers like Jeff Minter, it holds an 8.47 score on Lemon64. It also inspired clones and a 2004 sequel. Kutcher eventually left games to build a career in medical software—but his first creation remains unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
This Space Taxi C64 Review is a nostalgic deep dive into a game that’s still fun, clever, and surprisingly difficult. With its inventive gameplay and enduring charm, Space Taxi deserves its place in C64 history.
