Magnum Clean Shot [ZX Spectrum Next]

Magnum Clean Shot
Developer: Cavern Games
Year: 2024
Platform: Sinclair Spectrum NEXT
Download £8.95
Physical edition £29.95

With Magnum Clean Shot, Cavern Games brings a hard-hitting shooter to the ZX Spectrum Next, one that draws unmistakable inspiration from classics such as Empire City 1931 and Prohibition. The game transports us back to the era of gangster bosses and turf wars – a time when the law was dictated by bullets and the cold logic of the .357 Magnum.

Of course, there is a physical edition of Magnum Clean Shot in the usual DVD box – as always with Cavern Games, a real treasure trove. As well as an SD card, it includes a manual and beautifully designed cards featuring illustrations that perfectly capture the atmosphere of the gangster era. You get all this for around 40 euros – a fair deal for collectors and fans.

Story – The Battle Against Alfonso De Ville

The plot centres on the notorious gangster boss Alfonso De Ville, who resumes his criminal activities upon his release from prison. His henchmen spread fear and terror, and only one man can stop him: Jack Callahan, a special agent and tough law-enforcer. Callahan hunts De Ville and his gang across cities such as Palermo, Oklahoma and Chicago, armed with his trusty Magnum.

Armed with an endless supply of ammunition for his handgun, Callahan must not only track down Alfonso, but also eliminate a host of crooks. Additional weapons such as a Thompson submachine gun or a pump-action shotgun add tactical depth to the game – even if their ammunition is limited.

Gameplay – Crouch, aim, fire!

The gameplay in Magnum Clean Shot combines action-packed shootouts with a touch of strategy. Enemies appear at windows, take cover and open fire. Callahan always remains the centre of attention – quite literally: a yellow outline marks his position, which turns red as soon as an enemy takes aim at him.

To dodge the hail of bullets, Callahan can crouch for up to five seconds. This is particularly useful when knives, grenades or bullets are flying towards him. But be careful: at the end of each level, a boss enemy awaits, requiring tactical skill and quick reflexes. Bonus levels offer the chance to earn extra points at the shooting range along the way.

One of the highlights is the variety of settings: from urban canyons to a mafia boss’s yacht, there’s plenty of variety. Every 20,000 points earns you an extra life – and you’ll need it, because the difficulty level isn’t for the faint-hearted.

Graphics and sound – pure arcade action

The graphics in Magnum Clean Shot are crisp and detailed, with a charming comic-book style that perfectly captures the 1930s atmosphere. Sampled music and crisp sound effects create a genuine arcade feel – you can really tell that the developers have put a lot of attention to detail into this game.

A comparison with the classics – pure nostalgia!

Anyone familiar with Empire City 1931 or Prohibition will immediately spot the parallels. Yet Magnum Clean Shot offers enough originality and new mechanics to shine not just as an homage, but as a title in its own right. The ducking mechanic and the various weapons, in particular, add a new dimension to the tried-and-tested gameplay.

Conclusion – A must-have for fans of classic shooters

Cavern Games has delivered yet another hit for the ZX Spectrum Next with Magnum Clean Shot. The game combines fast-paced action with a touch of strategy and a healthy dose of nostalgia.

The only thing that bothers me a little are the proportions in some places, as the characters appear somewhat small compared to their surroundings. For example, the level inside the building where the doors in the background look huge.

Fans of Empire City 1931 or Prohibition in particular will find plenty to enjoy here. The physical edition is another highlight for collectors, and I’m already excited to see what Cavern Games has in store for us next.

One thing is certain: with Magnum Clean Shot, you feel like Elliot Ness on steroids! And let’s be honest: who can resist that?