Power Factor (1993-)

• Developer: Hand Made Software

• Publisher: Atari

• Genre: Platform

Power Factor for the Atari Lynx was developed by Hand Made Software and published by Atari in 1993. The game was an action-platformer that put players in control of a hero equipped with an advanced exosuit, tasked with battling a rogue military organization threatening global security. While exclusive to the Lynx, the game drew inspiration from popular console action titles of the era, blending run-and-gun mechanics with platforming and exploration. Released late in the Lynx’s lifecycle, it served as a demonstration of the handheld’s ability to handle detailed graphics and fast-paced action.

The story of Power Factor follows a genetically enhanced soldier who must recover stolen technology and prevent the misuse of advanced weaponry. Players traverse hazardous environments, including enemy bases and industrial complexes, while facing robotic enemies, turrets, and mechanical traps. The narrative is delivered through brief cutscenes and mission briefings, providing context to the player’s objectives without slowing down the action. Themes of high-tech heroes and dystopian threats, common in early 1990s media, clearly influenced the game’s design and setting.

Gameplay combined side-scrolling platforming with run-and-gun combat, requiring players to jump, shoot, and use temporary power-ups to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles. Each level culminated in challenging boss encounters that tested the player’s timing and strategy. The Lynx hardware allowed for large, detailed character sprites and smoothly scrolling backgrounds, giving the sense of a more expansive game world despite the handheld’s limitations. Controls were designed to be precise, ensuring that the fast-paced combat and platforming could be handled effectively on the system.

The soundtrack featured energetic, driving themes to accompany the game’s intense action, alongside sound effects for gunfire, explosions, and mechanical movement. Power Factor did not have a prequel or a direct sequel, making it a standalone title in the Lynx library. Promotion emphasized its technical achievements and high-octane gameplay, highlighting its large sprites and challenging levels. Critical reception was generally positive, with praise for its graphics, level design, and combat, though some reviewers noted the steep difficulty curve. Despite the Lynx nearing the end of its commercial run, Power Factor remains remembered as a strong example of the system’s action-platforming capabilities.

Images from MobyGames