Summary
- Release Year: 1981
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Web browser
- Publishers: Atari, Sanritsu Denki Co., Ltd.
Centipede: A Classic Arcade Game That’s Still Fun Today
Centipede is a vertically-oriented shoot ’em up arcade game produced by Atari, Inc. in 1980. The game was designed by Ed Logg along with Dona Bailey, one of the few female game programmers in the industry at this time. It was also the first arcade coin-operated game to have a significant female player base.
The player controls a small ship at the bottom of the screen and must shoot centipedes that wind their way down the playing field. The centipedes are made up of segments, and each segment must be shot in order to kill the centipede. If the centipede reaches the bottom of the screen, it will wrap around to the top and continue its descent.
In addition to centipedes, the player must also contend with other insects, such as spiders, scorpions, and fleas. These insects can be killed by shooting them, but they can also be a nuisance, as they can block the player’s shots or cause the player to lose a life.
Centipede is a challenging game, but it is also a lot of fun. The game is fast-paced and exciting, and it requires the player to have quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. Centipede is a classic arcade game that is still fun to play today.
Gameplay
The player controls a small ship at the bottom of the screen and must shoot centipedes that wind their way down the playing field. The centipedes are made up of segments, and each segment must be shot in order to kill the centipede. If the centipede reaches the bottom of the screen, it will wrap around to the top and continue its descent.
In addition to centipedes, the player must also contend with other insects, such as spiders, scorpions, and fleas. These insects can be killed by shooting them, but they can also be a nuisance, as they can block the player’s shots or cause the player to lose a life.
The player has a limited number of shots, and each shot must be carefully aimed. The player can also use a trackball to move the ship around the screen.
Development
Centipede was designed by Ed Logg along with Dona Bailey. Logg was inspired by the game Missile Command, and he wanted to create a game that was similar but with a more unique twist. Bailey was responsible for the game’s graphics and sound effects.
Centipede was a commercial success, and it quickly became one of the most popular arcade games of its time. The game was ported to several home consoles, and it has been re-released several times over the years.
Legacy
Centipede is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of all time. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it has a timeless appeal. Centipede has been praised for its innovative gameplay, its colorful graphics, and its catchy sound effects.
Centipede has been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game has been ported to several home consoles, and it has been re-released several times over the years. Centipede is a true classic that deserves its place in gaming history.
Tips for Playing Centipede
Here are a few tips for playing Centipede:
- Use the trackball to move your ship around the screen quickly and easily.
- Aim your shots carefully. Each shot is precious, so make sure you hit your target.
- Be aware of the other insects on the screen. They can block your shots or cause you to lose a life.
- Don’t let the centipede reach the bottom of the screen. If it does, it will wrap around to the top and continue its descent.
- Be patient. Centipede is a challenging game, but it is also a lot of fun. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t beat it right away. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Conclusion
Centipede is a classic arcade game that is still fun to play today. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it has a timeless appeal. Centipede is a true classic that deserves its place in gaming history.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
