Hocus Pocus (video game)

Infobox VG
title = Hocus Pocus


developer = Moonlite Software
publisher = Apogee Software
released = June 1, 1994
genre = Side-scrolling platform game
modes = Single player
ratings = OFLC: G8+
platforms = MS-DOS
media = floppy disk (1)
requirements = IBM PC compatible, 585kB RAM
input = Keyboard, Joystick

"Hocus Pocus" is a 1994 side-scrolling platform video game developed by Moonlite Software and published by Apogee Software for MS-DOS. It is a 256 color VGA game featuring 360 degree scrolling and parallaxing backgrounds.A part of this title is distributed under the shareware license.

In the game, the player controls Hocus, a young wizard apprentice, sent on a quest by Terexin, leader of the Council of Wizards to prove his worthiness to join this council. To do this, Hocus has to beat 36 levels spread over 4 episodes, filled with over 30 different kinds of monsters, includings imps, ghosts, and dragons, and a boss at the end of each episode.

Gameplay

To finish each level in the game, Hocus has to collect all the crystal balls within that level. Hocus will encounter monsters which he may avoid or kill with his magic lightning bolt spell. Within the levels there are also various items and treasure that Hocus can pick up for points or special abilities. He also has to solve several puzzles along the way. Some levels have silver and gold doors, which can be opened after Hocus pick up the corresponding keys.

Treasure items include rubies, diamonds, goblets and crowns. While Hocus does not have to pick up treasure, the player is awarded bonus points if all treasure is collected. The player also receive bonus points if they complete the level within a set time limit.

Hocus starts with 100% health and this percentage decreases as Hocus takes damage from monsters or their missiles. If this percentage reaches 0, Hocus dies and must restart the level. Hocus can collect healing potions that restores 10% health, but cannot be picked up if Hocus is at maximum health. There are also fight-enhancing potions, which give faster bolt cast rate, multiple bolts in a shot, and rapid fires, among others. Other potions allow Hocus to jump higher, and to teleport to a set location in the level.

Most levels have a secret room that may either be behind a hidden wall, or require a teleport potion to get there. A hologram of Terexin can be found in most levels. This hologram sometimes gives Hocus a hint to where the secret room may be found, but at other times it will taunt you instead. Sometimes teleport potions are hidden in walls or blocks that Hocus must shoot to find. When Hocus finds a secret room, he will often be rewarded with large amounts of treasure and items.

External links

* [http://www.3drealms.com/hocus/ 3D Realms' Hocus Pocus site]
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* [http://www.geocities.com/hocuspocusweb/ Hocus Pocus Web]