Doc the Destroyer

Doc the Destroyer - the 1987 action adventure for Commodore 64 from
Melbourne House.

Travel through time as Doc, a reluctant hero armed with a stun gun,
battling mutants and warriors while searching for parts of a lost time
machine to save humanity.

Core loop
- explore side-scrolling environments filled with enemies and hazards
- collect time machine components hidden in each era
- fight foes using energy weapons or hand-to-hand combat
- unlock new zones to progress through prehistoric to future settings

Systems and items
- stun gun - limited charge, replenished by pickups
- inventory - manage items needed to solve light environmental puzzles
- time portals - connect different eras once machine parts are found
- health bar - depleted by enemy hits or environmental traps

Level design and feel
Side-view scrolling levels span multiple time periods, from caveman
jungles to cybernetic cities. Smooth animation, large sprites, and
varied enemy designs give the game a comic adventure feel.

Why it is notable
- one of Melbourne House’s few original action IPs after licensed hits
- blends arcade combat with lightweight adventure mechanics
- marketed with striking comic-style cover art and humor

Tips
- conserve stun gun energy by dodging early enemies
- explore both vertical paths—some exits are hidden off-screen
- grab power cells before entering boss fights to avoid depletion

At a glance
Year - 1987
Developer - Melbourne House
Design and programming - Paul Kidd
Graphics - Greg Holland
Music - Neil Brennan
Publisher - Melbourne House
Genre - Action adventure
Players - 1
Controls - Joystick in port 2