Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Arcade
- Platforms: Arcade
- Developers: General Computer Corporation (GCC)
- Publishers: Atari
Quantum (1982)
Quantum is a classic arcade game released in 1982 by Atari, Inc. It is a simple but addictive game that challenges players to capture particles in a subatomic world using a trackball.
Gameplay
The player controls a probe that can move around the screen using the trackball. The goal of the game is to capture particles by circling them with the probe’s tail. Once a particle is captured, it will turn into a point. The player earns points for each particle they capture, and the game ends when the player reaches a certain number of points.
There are different types of particles in the game, each with its own unique behavior. Some particles are slow and easy to capture, while others are fast and erratic. The player must use their skill and strategy to capture all of the particles in each level.
Development
Quantum was developed by a team led by Ed Logg, who also designed other classic Atari games such as Asteroids and Centipede. Logg was inspired to create Quantum after reading an article about quantum physics. He wanted to create a game that would allow players to experience the strange and wonderful world of subatomic particles.
The development of Quantum was a challenge, as the team had to create a new type of controller that would allow players to move the probe with precision. They also had to develop a physics engine that would accurately simulate the movement of particles.
Release
Quantum was released in arcades in 1982. It was a critical and commercial success, and it quickly became one of the most popular arcade games of the year. Quantum was also ported to home computers, including the Atari 2600, Commodore 64, and Apple II.
Legacy
Quantum is considered to be one of the most important arcade games of the early 1980s. It was one of the first games to use a trackball controller, and it helped to popularize the use of physics in video games. Quantum also had a significant influence on the development of later games, such as Marble Madness and Super Monkey Ball.
Quantum Today
Quantum is still a lot of fun to play today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. Quantum is available for purchase on a variety of platforms, including the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Tips for Playing Quantum
Here are a few tips for playing Quantum:
- Use the trackball to move the probe slowly and precisely.
- Circle the particles with the probe’s tail to capture them.
- Be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t capture all of the particles right away.
- Try to predict the movement of the particles and position the probe accordingly.
- Use the walls of the playfield to your advantage.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Quantum and become a particle-capturing pro!
Review Score
8/10