005 (pronounced “double-o five“) is a 1981 arcade video game by Sega. They advertised it as the first of their RasterScan Convert-a-Game series, designed so that it could be changed into another game in minutes “at a substantial savings.”
It is one of the first examples of a stealth game, and the first to use a “vision cone” mechanic, which allows players to see the precise field of view of their enemies. 005 is also credited for being the first game to introduce the concept of a “hub world” in games.
Gameplay
Largely inspired by James Bond (the title itself is a tribute or parody to the secret agent’s codename 007), the player’s mission is to take a briefcase of secret documents to a waiting helicopter. The player controls a spy who must avoid the enemies as he makes his way through buildings and warehouses, where he will have to dodge the enemies’ flashlights and use boxes as hiding spots.
Reception
Upon release, 005 received a positive review from Cash Box magazine. They called it an “exciting new multi-scene computer video spy chase game” with challenging gameplay requiring skill and praised the game’s multiple alternate escape routes with challenging obstacles such as enemy patrols and slippery ice. They said it “combines the challenge and thrills of four games in one” along with appealing cartoon-style graphics as well as suspenseful music and sound.
High score
Dwayne Richard holds the Guinness World Records high score for this game with a maximum possible 1,500,000 points. The record was set in May 2002.
Gamer24h Editor's Take
Having closely reviewed 005, the Gamer24h editorial team considers it one of the most noteworthy titles of recent times. The visionary approach of developer Sega R&D Japan, combined with the expertise of publisher Q122741, has resulted in an exceptionally refined product. Its innovative take on the Stealth, maze genre offers a breath of fresh air for fans of the category. If you're looking for an absorbing world and satisfying mechanics that pull you right in, this game might be exactly what you've been searching for.