JetPac Spectrum 16/48K Cassette Game

JetPac Spectrum 16/48K Cassette Game

Jetpac is a shooter video game developed and published by Ultimate Play the Game and released for the ZX Spectrum in 1983. It is the first game to be released by Ultimate Play the Game. The game follows Jetman as he must rebuild his rocket using a jet pack.  To explore different planets, while simultaneously defending against hostile aliens.

The developer Chris Stamper with graphics designed by his brother, Tim Stamper managed to fit a lot into the tiny memory. Reviewers praised Jetpac‘s presentation and gameplay, and it won “Game of the Year” at the Golden Joystick Awards in 1983.

JetPac Spectrum Gameplay

The game world is presented in a horizontal wraparound and consists of three platforms which Jetman can manoeuvre onto. Jetman must assemble his rocket. And then fill it with fuel before taking off to the next planet, where the procedure is broadly repeated. In addition, the player has to defend themselves from the planet’s aliens, and for bonus points collect valuable resources.

There is no traditional “End” to JetPac, just completion of the 16 levels before the game loops back to level 1. The objective however becomes getting to the end of the 16 levels with your 3 lives and amassing the biggest score possible.  This is no mean feat with an onslaught of aliens and some very fast gameplay.

Top Tips

The trick with defeating all of these alien types. Other than just avoiding them by waiting in the top right platform. Firing left and right, and preventing any alien from getting near you.

When a piece of rocket ship, a fuel tank or a bonus item begins falling, you can then swoop down from your perch and intercept them. Travelling back to you perch automatically deposits the item along the way.

You can clear most of the screen from your safe position and time your dive for when the screen is less populated. in this way you spend most of your time invulnerable, only risking damage when you need to emerge to collect an item.

Buying Retro Cassette Tape Games

While we’ve experienced minimal to no difficulties loading both sides of this Spectrum Cassette game. It’s important to understand that results may vary on your equipment. Therefore, please keep in mind that these are sold primarily for decorative purposes, and any loading challenges you encounter will be your responsibility.

Box contains:
Jetpac original cassette
Original trifold inlay instructions
Orginial cassette case

What’s it like today?
Rarity: Fairly common
Typical value: £9.99
Boxed & Mint: £19.99-£34.99

Fun Factor: