'Buffalo Bills Wild West Show' is a 1986 action game developed by Michael Hedley and published by Tynesoft for the Commodore 64. The game is based on the historical figure Buffalo Bill and his Wild West shows, which were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Players take on the role of Buffalo Bill, tasked with performing various stunts and challenges to entertain the audience. The game is divided into multiple stages, each representing a different act from the Wild West show, such as horse riding, shooting targets, and lassoing.
The gameplay is a mix of action and timing-based challenges. In one stage, players must ride a horse and jump over obstacles, while in another, they must shoot moving targets with a limited number of bullets. The lassoing stage requires precise timing to catch animals, and there is also a stage where players must ride a stagecoach and avoid hazards. Each stage has its own set of rules and objectives, requiring players to adapt quickly to succeed.
The graphics are colorful and detailed for the time, with sprites representing Buffalo Bill, animals, and other elements of the Wild West. The sound design includes music and sound effects that enhance the atmosphere, such as gunshots and galloping horses. The game’s controls are simple but require precision, especially in the shooting and lassoing stages, where timing is crucial.
'Buffalo Bills Wild West Show' is notable for its variety of gameplay mechanics and its attempt to capture the spirit of the Wild West shows. While it may not be as complex as some other games of the era, it offers a fun and challenging experience that reflects the entertainment style of the historical figure it is based on. The game’s stages are short but require skill and practice to master, making it a engaging title for Commodore 64 enthusiasts.