title of old computer game?

September 8, 2006 10:48 AM

I seem to remember an old game possibly on the C64, but more likely on the PC. The premise of the game was to drive around in a drilling unit and drill for diamonds (I think). The more you collected in a specific time, the more you won.

I think this game was set on a planet, or an asteroid at least. Because it was based in space, the controls of the drilling unit were subject to near zero g gravity, which made things a little less than precise. I believe also that there was a "thing" that went around and tried to stop you from drilling.

Anyone recall this, or is this more of my ever-so-failing memory/fantastic mind voyage? Seeking the publisher/software house, and the title of the game. If anyone could provide a link to the actual game, that would be great!

posted by fox_terrier_guy to Computers & Internet (10 answers total)

Unlikely, but are you thinking of MULE?
posted by serazin at 11:05 AM on September 8, 2006

Does DigDug sound right?
posted by bristolcat at 11:08 AM on September 8, 2006

Driller, aka Space Station Oblivion?
posted by iconomy at 11:10 AM on September 8, 2006

Boulder Dash?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boulder_Dash
posted by jeditanuki at 11:26 AM on September 8, 2006

Oil's Well by Sierra?
posted by porpoise at 11:34 AM on September 8, 2006

Wildcatter?

That's probably not it, but it brings back great memories.
posted by timetoevolve at 11:53 AM on September 8, 2006

Not Miner 2049er? Sure were a lot of mining games in the 1980s, what gives?
posted by johngoren at 12:36 PM on September 8, 2006

This most certainly isn't the answer you're looking for, but one of my favorite online games I've encountered is Motherload (link is JayIsGames review) which is basically just what you've described, although a bit more arcade-y. But give it a try.l Maybe it'll scratch a little of the itch.
posted by incessant at 1:58 PM on September 8, 2006

iconomy nailed it. Even with a link! Damn, but you people are good!

The other ideas are great too. I think I'll have to check them out over the next week or so.

Thanks to all who answered!
posted by fox_terrier_guy at 2:33 PM on September 8, 2006

This sounds exactly like Dune II (harvesting spice but chased by sand worms).
posted by mdiskin at 4:49 AM on September 10, 2006