Arcade Adventure

• Charlotte Cuming, Grade 5, The Hamilton and Alexandra College
• Short Story
• 2014

Excellence Award in the 'The Text Generation 2014' competition

I clamber up the steep cliff face. When I reach the top, I feel a sudden sense of triumph streak through me, but as soon as it comes, it goes, for I am not safe, not even close. A killer troll staggers after me, groaning and howling. I wouldn’t have been as worried if he was alone, but the rough, rocky terrain is teeming with all sorts of slimy, scaly, fluffy or just downright freaky monsters! This time I don’t bother shooting a missile or even slime at them. I drop a bomb and flee! An agile zombie python is right onto me though, streaking after me. He is faster; much faster than I am.


My head is whirling and my brain feels heavy with suggestions, but no way will I let it show! I smother the screeching beast with slime and recite my mini victory song. Wait, what is that? I think to myself. A low moaning sound booms into my ears. Yes, a new monster to kill! My joy fades as I see it. It towers into the sky, blocking my view of whatever is behind the skyscraper of a monster. Despite his size, he looks quite innocent but it looks like I spoke too soon. Ten fireballs power their way towards me, and before I know what is happening, the screen blurs around me and big bold words appears, spelling ‘GAME OVER’ ‘CONGRATULATIONS! NEW HIGH SCORE’ Yes! I punch the air in pride. I love this game!