Vatman

About

Vatman is a side-scrolling beat-em-up where you play a costumed vigilante fighting tax-evading criminals on the ZX Spectrum. As Eric Jones' secret identity, you bash enemies with fists and objects while dodging attacks. Health depletes from hits but can be restored by collecting power-ups. The level ends with a boss battle. The game avoids hitting harmless targets like elderly women, adding a minor twist to the genre. Released in 1989, Vatman was bundled free with Your Sinclair’s Issue 46 on a covertape. Its humor and simple mechanics made it a cult favorite among retro fans. The ZX Spectrum community often cites its charm and straightforward action, though the novelty of a "tax-fighting hero" keeps it memorable decades later.