Mention the name Delphine Software to gamers of a certain vintage, and you might see their eyes light up as they recall the heydays of Another World and Flashback. These are two of the most celebrated games from the French developer known for their cinematic approach to platforming. Delphine Software was behind a diverse portfolio of games, such as Moto Racer, Darkstone, and the infamous Shaq Fu. Their first collection, rather aptly named Delphine Software Collection 1, revisits some of these classics, with a particular spotlight on their point-and-click adventures.
This collection includes Another World (also known as Out of this World) and Flashback, legendary for their engaging narratives and polished gameplay. Future Wars from 1989, and Operation Stealth from 1990 are also part of the package. These games aimed to compete with the prominent names in adventure gaming during their era, like Sierra and Lucasfilm Games. However, in retrospect, they don't quite measure up, even though they do bring some original concepts to the table.
Future Wars, which also goes by Time Travelers: The Menace and Adventures in Time, introduces an interesting time-traveling theme but falls short on execution. The spy-themed Operation Stealth, marketed as a James Bond game in North America, also doesn't live up to its potential. Both games are marred by the 'Cinematique' interface they use, which is a far cry from the more intuitive SCUMM system by Lucasfilm. Additionally, the absence of mouse support on platforms like Evercade adds to the challenge, as navigating with a D-pad and buttons is less than ideal. Furthermore, these games' in-built save systems have been disabled, making players rely on the Evercade's save state feature instead.
For many, the main attractions are still Another World and Flashback. Another World, especially, shines with its gripping animation, intricate puzzles, and unique narrative style. It stands out as one of the defining titles in video game history. The collection adopts the Amiga version, where the graphics and cutscenes continue to hold their grandeur. In a considered update, Evercade assigns the 'jump' function to the 'B' button for better playability, enhancing the user experience beyond the original Amiga's single-button setup.
Flashback goes even further, combining exquisite visuals with action-packed 2D platforming and an expansive plot to unfold. The compilation features the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis version, which could be a letdown for some fans who favored the Amiga's audio quality. Despite this, Paul Cuisset, the game's creator, expressed a preference for the Sega version, claiming it was the definitive experience he envisioned for the game.
With just four games, Delphine Software Collection 1 may feel somewhat insubstantial. The inclusion of Future Wars and Operation Stealth seems almost extraneous when the compilation's real stars are Another World and Flashback. Furthermore, veterans of Delphine's games may find little newness here, having likely played these titles before. Fans could argue for the inclusion of other noteworthy games like Cruise for a Corpse or the PlayStation hit Fade to Black, suggesting there's plenty of room for an anticipated Delphine Software Collection 2.
Despite its limited selection, Delphine Software Collection 1 hits a nostalgic note for fans. Its very existence is a celebration of Delphine's legacy, bringing the groundbreaking Flashback and Another World back into the spotlight. Even with its shortcomings and the meager presence of its point-and-click adventures, the compilation is a reminder of the influence these games have had on the industry. The company's influence on gaming narrative and cinematic presentation has laid down a marker for future generations, with Flashback asserting a special place in the annals of gaming history.
Embedded within Delphine Software Collection 1 is a past worth revisiting; it showcases a golden age where storytelling and inventive gameplay were melding into immersive experiences. For gamers looking back or experiencing these classics for the first time, the collection will always be more than the sum of its parts. It's about the memories, the leap into digital adventures unknown, and the reminder of when a young French studio helped shape the video game landscape.
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