Unreleased Commodore 64 Game Magnum Force Discovered After Decades
In a thrilling find for lovers of classic gaming and C64 fans, an unreleased Commodore 64 title, Magnum Force, has surfaced after more than 30 years in obscurity. Unearthed on a Codemasters 30 games CD pack, this scramble-like clone never hit the shelves as a standalone release, making its discovery a delightful surprise. Preservationists, notably from the Games That Weren’t project, have brought this hidden piece of history to light, offering fans a chance to peek into the past.
The game draws inspiration from Scramble, a landmark title released by Konami in 1981. As one of the earliest side-scrolling shooters, Scramble had players piloting a spaceship through hazardous landscapes, taking down enemies in a fast-paced challenge. Its influence rippled through the gaming world, shaping the shoot ‘em up genre. Magnum Force, crafted by Gavin Raeburn for Codemasters, sought to echo that excitement on the Commodore 64—a machine celebrated in the 1980s for its remarkable visuals and audio.
What makes this find curious is its unreleased status. Codemasters, known for budget-friendly offerings, might have shelved Magnum Force for quality concerns or strategic reasons, only slipping it onto a compilation disc as an extra. Described as a “sooped up Scramble clone,” it boasted end-of-level bosses and power-ups—features that spiced up the original formula. Yet, its obscurity persisted, likely because few snapped up that particular CD pack.
This discovery highlights the vital work of preserving gaming’s legacy. Efforts by groups like Games That Weren’t ensure these forgotten titles aren’t lost forever, giving us insight into the creativity and hurdles of early developers. For those who cherish the Commodore 64’s golden era, Magnum Force is a fascinating artefact, sparking wonder about other lost games still out there.
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