A common negative on Judge Dredd seems to be its rule-set, namely its lack of complexity. As 90's mode-based games go, its actually packed to the brim with features (9 modes + wizard mode, plus 3 main multiball modes with 2, 4 and 6 balls). The addition of the Super Game itself adds a whole new layer to the game (its like having two ROM chips on one table!). However, the consensus seems to be that Bally/Williams could have improved HOW you progress through the modes and added a more deeper rule-set. It has a LOT of shots and there are so many possibilities that the game could go.
How would YOU change the rule-set of Judge Dredd? Regulation Game and/or Super Game are both up for grabs.
Myself, I would change 2 major things...
- The Ultimate Challenge...I know it was common for Wizard modes of the time (everything is lit!) but it could have had a multi-stage element to it in order to defeat the Dark Judges once and for all. Maybe something involving hitting the crime scenes to weaken the power of the dark judges and then you have to hit the Air Raid ramp and aim for Judge Death on the J-U-D-G-E targets to end it all.
- A proper video mode...I know JD technically has 3 video modes (Bad Impersonator, Pursuit and Air Raid) but a PROPER video mode that is entirely played out on the DMD without ball action would have been nice. Maybe a battle with Mean Machine (I mean, he's on the slingshot plastic?)
Physical play field changes (wish list here)...
- Replace the advance crime level targets (3 of them), with 5 extra drop targets. Would add a whole new dimension to the game and have something else to shoot for with the left flippers
- Replace ? target with a vertical up kicker scoop, and put the ? target to replace one of the posts (maybe the right post of the left ramp?)
Any thoughts?