Xargon, also known as Xargon: The Mystery of the Blue Builders, is a trilogy of side-scrolling platform games developed by Epic MegaGames for MS-DOS. Here’s a deep dive into its history and details:
Origins and Development:
Allen Pilgrim
- Released in 1993, Xargon was programmed by Allen Pilgrim with graphics by Joe Hitchens.
- It was a contemporary of popular titles like Commander Keen and Duke Nukem II.
- The first volume, “Beyond Reality,” was released as shareware, while the subsequent volumes, “The Secret Chamber” and “Xargon’s Fury,” were commercially sold.
- In 2008, Pilgrim released the full game as freeware and the source code, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Gameplay and Story:
- Xargon features Malvineous Havershim, an archaeologist who stumbles upon the ruins of the Blue Builders in Madagascar.
- After encountering a mystical dream sequence, he awakens in a strange and hostile world.
- The player controls Malvineous, navigating through platforming levels filled with enemies and obstacles.
- The goal is to reach the exit of each level, ultimately defeating the evil entity Xargon.
- Xargon offers a variety of weapons and power-ups collected throughout the game, adding an element of exploration and resource management.
Technical Aspects:
- Xargon utilizes a modified version of the engine used in Jill of the Jungle, another Epic MegaGames title.
- It boasts impressive 256-color graphics, highly animated enemies, and Sound Blaster music and sound effects for the era.
- The game requires a 386/486 processor, VGA graphics, and a healthy dose of patience due to its challenging nature.
Legacy and Accessibility:
- Xargon is considered a classic MS-DOS platformer, praised for its improved graphics and gameplay compared to its predecessors.
- While the commercial versions are no longer readily available, the freeware release and online emulators allow players to experience the game today.
- Its open-source code also opens doors for potential fan-made projects and continued preservation.
Additional Points of Interest:
- Xargon’s story remains somewhat cryptic, leaving room for interpretation and imagination.
- The game’s soundtrack is often lauded for its atmospheric and engaging melodies.
- Xargon serves as a historical snapshot of early Epic MegaGames’ development, showcasing their early design sensibilities.
By delving into these aspects, we gain a comprehensive understanding of Xargon’s place in MS-DOS gaming history, its gameplay mechanics, and its enduring legacy for retro gaming enthusiasts.
