Summary
- Release Year: 1983
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Apple II, Atari 8-bit, Commodore C64/128/MAX
- Publishers: Electronic Arts
Axis Assassin: A No-Frills Shoot-‘Em-Up
Introduction
Axis Assassin is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up game released for arcades by Data East in 1983. The player controls a fighter plane and must shoot down enemy planes, tanks, and other ground targets. Axis Assassin is a relatively simple game, but it is challenging and addictive. It is also one of the first games to use a trackball for player control.
Gameplay
The player controls a fighter plane that can move left, right, up, and down. The plane can also shoot bullets in eight directions. The player must use the trackball to move the plane and shoot down enemy targets.
There are a total of 16 levels in Axis Assassin. Each level has a different objective, such as destroying all of the enemy planes or rescuing hostages. The levels become increasingly difficult as the player progresses.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Axis Assassin are simple but effective. The game uses a limited color palette, but the sprites are well-drawn and the backgrounds are detailed. The sound effects are also simple, but they are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere.
Controls
Axis Assassin uses a trackball for player control. The trackball is used to move the plane and shoot bullets. The controls are simple and easy to learn, but they can be difficult to master.
Difficulty
Axis Assassin is a challenging game. The enemy planes are relentless, and the levels are full of obstacles. The game also has a time limit, which adds to the challenge.
Reception
Axis Assassin was a commercial success. It was one of the most popular arcade games of 1983. The game was also well-received by critics. It was praised for its simple but addictive gameplay, its challenging difficulty, and its innovative use of a trackball for player control.
Legacy
Axis Assassin is considered to be one of the classic shoot-’em-up games. It has been ported to a number of home platforms, including the NES, the Commodore 64, and the ZX Spectrum. The game has also been included in a number of compilations of classic arcade games.
Conclusion
Axis Assassin is a simple but addictive shoot-’em-up game. It is challenging, but it is also fair. The game’s simple graphics and sound effects are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere. The controls are simple and easy to learn, but they can be difficult to master. Axis Assassin is a classic shoot-’em-up game that is still enjoyed by gamers today.
Tips for Playing Axis Assassin
- Use the trackball to move the plane and shoot bullets.
- Hold down the fire button to shoot continuously.
- Use the bombs to destroy large groups of enemies.
- Be careful not to run into the enemy planes or ground targets.
- Practice makes perfect. The more you play Axis Assassin, the better you will become at it.
Additional Information
- Axis Assassin was developed by Data East.
- The game was released in arcades in 1983.
- Axis Assassin was ported to a number of home platforms, including the NES, the Commodore 64, and the ZX Spectrum.
- The game has been included in a number of compilations of classic arcade games.
Review Score
6/10
