Cold Blood

Cold Blood

Overview & History

Released late in the lifespan of the ColecoVision by Bit Corp in 1983, *Cold Blood* is a fascinating, highly obscure action-platformer that pushes the console's hardware limits. The storyline casts players as a genetically altered reptilian mercenary navigating the industrial labyrinth of the Neo-Zeta Bio-Dome. Your mission is to infiltrate the rogue mainframe, eliminate the security mutant variants, and retrieve the stolen cryogenic serum before the facility self-destructs. Originally developed for the Taiwanese market before receiving a very limited Western distribution, this cartridge remains a holy grail for retro collectors due to its uniquely gritty cyberpunk atmosphere, atmospheric chiptune soundtrack, and challenging difficulty curve.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

The gameplay loop combines precision platforming with frantic arena combat across five sprawling, vertically scrolling industrial levels. Players control the protagonist, Zex, who possesses a distinct set of physical abilities. Zex can execute standard running and jumping maneuvers, but he also features a unique wall-climbing mechanic using his razor-sharp claws, allowing for vertical exploration and tactical retreats from patrolling turret drones. Combat relies on two primary attacks: a short-range plasma whip for close encounters and projectile energy darts that consume thermal energy meters. Managing Zex's body temperature is the core gameplay mechanic; firing too rapidly causes the character to overheat and temporarily freeze, leaving him completely vulnerable to acid-dripping mutants and robotic sentinels scattered throughout the Bio-Dome.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move and Aim / Climb Walls
• Action Keys: Attack (Plasma Whip / Energy Dart) / Jump
• Enter: Start / Pause