Publisher: U.S. Gold
Year of release: 1986
Authors: Artic Computing
Not all our ZX Spectrum Games of the Day are classics, but I like to highlight games that are topical in some way. So, with the 2022 World Cup in full flow, let’s revisit the first officially-licenced World Cup computer game.
World Cup Carnival is notable for all the wrong reasons. In order to get the game out in time for Mexico 86, U.S. Gold didn’t develop a new game, but instead retitled and re-released the 1984 game World Cup Football. Yes, that does mean that even the first game with a licence from FIFA was recycled from an earlier game. A process with which footy game fans would become very familiar over the years.
Not only was World Cup Carnival a disguised re-release, but it was also rubbish, with terrible graphics and gameplay.
To celebrate better ZX Spectrum games (and more), join us at Crash Live this Saturday.
