MegaZeux is more of an application than an actual game, but it can fall into the category of gaming for the fun that it will offer its users. MegaZeux is actually a game creation system that was created by Gregory Janson, and was inspired by the Epic MegaGames classic shareware game ZZT. It was created in the middle nineties, who had formed the Software Visions Company, which has long since gone by the wayside. It runs successfully on numerous operating systems and ports, making it a very versatile entertainer.
MegaZeux can run on Windows 95 or higher, Linux, the Mac, Amiga, and even the modern Nintendo Wii. It was originally released as shareware.
In reference to its inspiration ZZT, MegaZeux is a very souped up model. The games that you will be allowed to create will run from the top-down perspective, making for some very user friendly games. The graphics are ASCII and there are several tracked musical selections from which to choose. It features a lot of text driven options, and some characters that can be supremely edited.
It came with a default game entitled the Caverns of Zeux, which served as an interesting play and also a great example of what an imaginative gamer could put together using
this program. It was actually the sequel to an earlier game that was independently released by the same designer at Software Visions, Labrynth of Zeux. It is a platform game that follows the adventures of Vince Louis, and archeologist who recovers an ancient and valuable staff (the Silver Staff) from the Labyrinth of Zeux. In Caverns of Zeux, Vince begins the game holding his great prize when it suddenly activates. He is carried away to a series of caves and tunnels that are filled with traps, monsters, and puzzles.
MegaZeux has been done, and redone, countless times since its original release. It continues to evolve and provide more and more opportunities for budding game programmers and people with some imaginative ideas about creating their own plays. The fact that there are countless fan made games available for download…all created by this interesting and intuitive creation program…is a testament to how much can be done with this program. Some of the more notable programs that can be found for download include Cans, by Inmate2993, Darkness by Darren Hewer, and Darkness, which was a nice comedy, despite its misleading title. Check out some of the games created with MegaZeux, then make some of your own. What a versatile good time.
