science fiction video game
Gates of Zendocon
By Epyx, released 1 Jan 1989
- Microsoft Windows
- Atari Lynx
- action game
- shoot 'em up
What it is
Gates of Zendocon is a side-scrolling shoot ’em up from Epyx, first released for the Atari Lynx in 1989. You pilot a starship through 51 connected hostile universes after the spider Zendocon traps you in its web. Search each universe for transporter gates, fight hostile aliens and reach alien bases. Some enslaved aliens can become allies if you free them, following your ship and contributing unusual weapons. The journey builds toward a final duel with Zendocon.
This version is available on Windows and retains the original arcade-style action. Its modern additions include saving or loading at any point, controller support for most modern game controllers, control remapping, and image scaling and smoothing options. Steam features include single-player, Steam Cloud, Family Sharing, and partial controller support. The game was published by Pixel Games UK.
What players like, and what they don't
- 51 interconnected universes to explore
- Freeable allies can aid you with weapons
- Save or load at any point
- Control remapping and image options
- Steam lists only partial controller support
- No multiplayer feature is listed
Who it suits
Suits players looking for a solo retro shoot ’em up built around navigating connected hostile universes. Its remapping and image options may also appeal to players adapting the controls or display.
Gates of Zendocon combines starship combat with a branching universe-to-universe search. Its save and control options accompany the original single-player structure.
