Minoss Knossoss (ZX81)

'Minoss Knossoss' is the direct sequel to  Tut-Tut and builds on the original tomb-raiding puzzle adventure style with all-new challenges and dangers.

Minoan Archaeology with the ZX81

Life on the ancient history speaking circuit had grown dull. Tired of recounting your successes at the tombs of Tut-Tut, you yearned for the exciting life of a practical archaeologist. Now, in 1924, after a month's journey by tramp steamers, you arrived in Crete at the Palace of Knossos.

Initially finding little, concrete leads began emerging from your excavations, presenting opportunities too good to pass up. Ancient tales of curses and the fabled Minotaur, along with the legendary workshops of Daedalus, beckon to the grand adventurer.

Here in Crete, where the labyrinth of the Minotaur lies, with mysteries and dangers aplenty, you'll cement your reputation as the greatest archaeologist of all time, or die trying.

Playing the Game

Minoss Knossoss is one part puzzle, two parts arcade action. The game comprises 20 levels, with the final level being the hidden workshops of the mythical craftsman Daedalus; accessible only to those who have mastered the labyrinths (accumulated 2500 points).

Collect gems, amulets, bracelets, keys, and hourglasses to earn points. Amulets freeze the player, while bracelets halt creatures. Hourglasses award you extra time to complete a level. Completing a level requires the player to collect keys, open doors, and move blocks before finding exits to lower labyrinthine levels, all while keeping an eye out for King Minos's mythical guardians.

Labyrinth Guardians

Strategically utilise hidden crevices to evade enemies, capitalising on the predatory instincts of Harpies and Minotaurs to distract them while you unravel the puzzles.

• Serpents: Massive snakes roam the levels. They are timid, and while they won't actively hunt you down, be cautious—cornering them may provoke a strike.
• Harpies: With the body of a bird and the visage of a human, these winged creatures embody an avian ferocity and supernatural penchant for vengeance.
• Minotaurs: Renowned as the ultimate terror within the labyrinth, these formidable creatures relentlessly pursue their prey, turning the maze into a deadly game of survival.

Controls

• Keys: ‘O’ left, ‘P’ right, ‘Q’ up, ‘A’ down, 'F' to pause and ‘R’ to reset the level (at a cost).
• Joystick / Gamepad: A Kempston standard Joystick addaptor is supported.

Sound

AY Sound is supported via ZON-X sound cards and compatibles such as the ZXPand+

Further Details

All the history and extended details behind the Development a of Minoss Knossoss can found on ZX81 Keyboard Adventure BlogPage.

*** You'll require a Real ZX81 or a ZX81 Emulator to play this game.