Plot:
Yet again our Solar System is under attack from a devious enemy hell bent on raping our planets of their precious mineral resources and yet again it's up to you to prevent such a dastardly, un-politically correct deed. Uridium, by Andrew Braybrook (also of Paradroid fame), puts you in the pilot seat of the latest Manta class Space fighter, your objective is to destroy all of fifteen Dreadnoughts by carefully avoiding the enemy's defence systems, before landing on the Dreadnought's master runway, entering the engine room and priming the ships auto destruct sequence. Each Dreadnought is viewed through a horizontally scrolling window which follows the movements of your craft left and right. Aliens of varying description attack in a variety of different formations.
Graphics:
The most impressive thing about Uridium is the incredible graphics. At the time they were considered arcade quality with amazingly smooth scrolling and special effects. The sprites are superbly defined and the use of colour is exceptional.
Control:
The Manta is very responsive indeed and is pleasure to control, skillful handling providing a similar sort of joy to that on Defender. The way the Manta tumbles on itself as you turn to fly in the opposite direction is stunning.
Sound:
Sound is also put to great use with a thunderous theme tune and some effective, bass laden spot sounds within the game itself. The sound heard as the Manta is launches from the drop ship is again reminiscent of Defender - WOOORRAAAAOOOWW!
Conclusion:
Still great fun to play today and was one of the most addictive and spectacular shoot-em-ups seen on any home computer of the time. Should not be missed by any fan of shoot-em-ups.
