Summary
- Release Year: 1980
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Vectrex
- Developers: Cinematronics
- Publishers: Centuri, GCE
Rip Off (1980): The Classic Vector Shoot ‘Em Up
Rip Off is a vector shoot ’em up arcade game released by Cinematronics in 1980. It is the first shoot ’em up arcade game to feature cooperative gameplay and the first game to exhibit “flocking” behavior. The objective of the game is to prevent computer-controlled enemies from stealing eight canisters set in the center of the screen. One or two players control tank-like vehicles while game-controlled “pirate” tanks rush onto the field and attempt to drag the canisters off the edge of the screen. Enemies can be defeated by shooting or colliding with them. The game speed and difficulty increase with each successive wave until all the canisters have been taken (“ripped off”).
Rip Off was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most influential shoot ’em up games of all time. It was ported to a number of home computers and consoles, and it has been re-released on several retro gaming compilations.
Gameplay
Rip Off is a top-down shooter in which the player controls a tank-like vehicle. The objective of the game is to prevent computer-controlled enemies from stealing eight canisters set in the center of the screen. The player’s tank can move in any direction and can shoot in eight directions. The player can also use a limited number of bombs to destroy enemies or clear obstacles.
Enemies in Rip Off come in a variety of forms, including tanks, planes, and helicopters. Enemies can be defeated by shooting them or colliding with them. However, some enemies are more difficult to defeat than others. For example, tanks are more durable than planes, and helicopters can fly out of reach of the player’s tank.
The game speed and difficulty increase with each successive wave. As the game progresses, more and more enemies will appear on the screen, and they will become more aggressive. The player must use all of their skills and resources to survive and protect the canisters.
Cooperative Gameplay
One of the most unique features of Rip Off is its cooperative gameplay. Up to two players can play the game simultaneously, each controlling one of the tank-like vehicles. This allows players to work together to defeat the enemy forces and protect the canisters.
Cooperative gameplay adds a new level of challenge and excitement to Rip Off. Players must coordinate their movements and firepower to effectively defend the canisters. They must also be aware of each other’s positions to avoid colliding with each other.
Flocking Behavior
Another unique feature of Rip Off is its “flocking” behavior. This refers to the way that the enemy tanks move in groups. The tanks will often follow each other in a line or formation, making it difficult for the player to target them individually.
The flocking behavior makes Rip Off more challenging and unpredictable. The player must constantly be aware of the enemy tanks’ movements and be prepared to adjust their strategy accordingly.
Legacy
Rip Off was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most influential shoot ’em up games of all time. It was ported to a number of home computers and consoles, and it has been re-released on several retro gaming compilations.
Rip Off has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, cooperative multiplayer, and innovative flocking behavior. It is a challenging and rewarding game that is still enjoyed by gamers today.
Conclusion
Rip Off is a classic vector shoot ’em up that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique cooperative multiplayer experience. If you are a fan of shoot ’em ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Rip Off.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
