Black & White [ZX Spectrum Next]

Black & White
Author: Pat Morita Team
Year: 2024
System: Sinclair Spectrum NEXT
Download (€5.99)
Physical version (€24.99)

Black & White – The Return of a Classic to the Sinclair Spectrum NEXT

Back in 2023, I reported on the outstanding platform game Black & White for the Sinclair Spectrum. Four years later, the Pat Morita Team has ported the title to the Sinclair Spectrum NEXT and given it a fresh, contemporary revamp.

The NEXT version not only offers enhanced graphics and improved sound, but also comes in a stylish physical edition: packaged in a DVD case with a manual and an SD card – a must-have for collectors and retro fans!

The story of Candel and Alice

Just to remind you, in case you can’t quite remember that old classic:

The peaceful night in the Kingdom of Kalela comes to an abrupt end when the twin witches Candel and Alice unwittingly wreak havoc. Their task was to guard the royal treasure – a collection of precious diamonds – in order to earn the title of royal magician.

But a magical accident changes everything: their wands collide, merge and unleash a whirlwind that scatters the diamonds across the entire kingdom.

Now it is up to the two witches to make amends for their mistakes. They must collect the scattered gems to settle their debt with the king and earn their master’s forgiveness. Only then will the curse weighing upon them be lifted. Nothing must stand in their way – neither enemies nor obstacles.

The gameplay remains classic – with some new refinements

The aim of the game remains the same: to complete a level, you must collect all the diamonds on the stage. But it’s not quite as easy as it sounds, as black and white balls block your path and enemies lurk everywhere.

Your magical abilities are crucial:

• With your magic, you can stun enemies for a short time and destroy balls that match your colour (black or white).
• If your magic bar is empty, you'll need a magic crystal to recharge it. Note: Each recharge changes your colour from black to white – or vice versa.

This interplay between black and white is at the heart of the gameplay and adds an extra layer of strategy.

Six worlds full of adventure

The NEXT version of Black & White offers six diverse worlds that differ significantly from one another in both visual style and gameplay:

1. The High Mountain – Barren peaks and dangerous precipices.
2. The Dark Forest – Dense vegetation and mysterious enemies.
3. Coconut Beach – Tropical hazards and slippery sandy paths.
4. The Spooky Castle – Haunted halls and treacherous traps.
5. The Cave – Labyrinthine passages and dark corners.
6. The Aztec Ruins – Ancient secrets and deadly mysteries.

Each world presents new challenges and keeps you on your toes with cleverly placed enemies and obstacles.

Conclusion – A timeless classic with a fresh new look

Black & White was already a real highlight on the original Sinclair Spectrum, but the NEXT version takes the game to a whole new level. The graphical and audio enhancements make it a modern classic, without losing any of the original’s nostalgic charm. The physical edition is a great addition to any collection, and fans of platformers will love the clever colour mechanics. Whether you’re familiar with the witches from back in the day or are just discovering them now: Black & White definitely belongs on your list!