Howard the Duck is an action video game originally released by Activision in 1986. Developed for retro computing systems including the Apple II, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum, the title serves as a tie-in to the Marvel character, though it notably functions as a sequel to the 1986 film. Despite the commercial failure of the movie, Activision capitalized on the license, creating a chaotic adventure that tasks the titular protagonist with saving his friends from a dangerous, otherworldly threat.
Story and Setting: The Peril of Volcano Island
The game's narrative is set entirely on a fictitious location known as Volcano Island. The plot begins when Howard's two best friends, Phil and Beverly, are suddenly kidnapped by a mysterious "Dark Overlord." This villain has transported the duo to a tropical island, intending to use them for vague but evil purposes within an active volcano.
To rescue his friends and restore order, Howard must navigate a hostile and treacherous landscape. The stakes are incredibly high; the mission involves not only finding the prisoners but also stopping the volcano from erupting. To achieve this, the player must guide Howard through a gauntlet of perils, including jumping over quicksand and crossing treacherous rivers. The journey culminates in a desperate attempt to parachute directly into the mouth of the volcano to do battle with the Dark Overlord.
Gameplay Mechanics and Technical Challenges
As an action game, Howard the Duck challenges players to traverse a hostile environment with a diverse array of mechanics. Howard is depicted clad in a pair of pea-green pajamas, wandering aimlessly from one level to the next. The gameplay is varied, demanding that the player handle unique situations throughout the adventure. Players must fight off an army of mutants and brave high winds while piloting an ultralite aircraft.
Despite the ambitious premise, the game is often cited for its technical struggles. Retrospective reviews highlight significant issues with the game's performance. Critics noted that the game suffers from slow loading times, with some sequences taking over 80 counters to load on the Commodore 64. Furthermore, the experience is marred by sluggish controls, ugly animation, and sound effects that are frequently out of sync with the visuals. One reviewer described the programming as "grim," suggesting the team crafted a release lacking the "goofy fun" of the source material, leaving players trapped in a frustrating experience.
Notable Features
One of the most distinct moments in the game occurs right at the start. Upon loading, players are treated to a mini-concert sequence in which Howard cavorts on stage to his theme music. The screen displays a beak breaking out of an egg while holding a cigar. This sequence sets the tone for a game that attempts to be a sequel to the movie, even though the game is actually based on an early treatment for the film involving a private detective in Hawaii.
Who It Appeals To
Today, Howard the Duck is less of a recommended playthrough for modern gamers and more of a collector's item for retro gaming enthusiasts. It appeals to those interested in the history of Marvel video game adaptations and developers who wish to study the early days of licensed software. While the game is often remembered for its technical flaws, it remains a fascinating piece of trivia for fans of the character who want to see how the studio attempted to bring the duck to life on the Apple II and Commodore platforms.
