Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter, Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Intellivision
- Developers: Mattel Electronics
- Publishers: Mattel Electronics, Sears
Space Spartans (1982): A Retro Arcade Classic
Introduction
Space Spartans is a top-down space shooter arcade game released in 1982 by Bally Midway. The game is set in the year 480 B.C., and the player controls a lone Spartan spaceship that must defend the galaxy from an alien invasion. Space Spartans is known for its challenging gameplay, addictive action, and iconic graphics.
Gameplay
The player controls a Spartan spaceship that is armed with a laser cannon. The player’s ship can move in eight directions and can fire its laser cannon in any direction. The player must use their ship to destroy alien ships and avoid being hit by enemy fire.
The game is played on a single screen, and the player’s ship is constantly moving. The player must constantly be aware of their surroundings and be ready to react to enemy attacks. The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses, and the player must use all of their skills to survive.
Graphics
The graphics in Space Spartans are simple but effective. The player’s ship is a small white triangle, and the enemy ships are a variety of different shapes and colors. The game’s backgrounds are also simple, but they do a good job of creating a sense of atmosphere.
Sound
The sound in Space Spartans is also simple, but it is effective. The game’s soundtrack is a repetitive loop of electronic music, but it does a good job of creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The game also features a variety of sound effects, such as laser fire and explosions.
Reception
Space Spartans was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, addictive action, and iconic graphics. Space Spartans was also a popular game in arcades, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts today.
Legacy
Space Spartans is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of the 1980s. The game has been ported to a variety of home platforms, and it has also been included in several retro game compilations. Space Spartans remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts, and it is still enjoyed by many people today.
Conclusion
Space Spartans is a challenging and addictive top-down space shooter that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s simple but effective graphics and sound, combined with its challenging gameplay, make it a timeless classic. If you are a fan of retro arcade games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Space Spartans.
Tips for Playing Space Spartans
- Use cover. The player’s ship is very vulnerable to enemy fire, so it is important to use cover whenever possible. The player can use asteroids, planets, and other objects to block enemy fire.
- Be aware of your surroundings. The player must constantly be aware of their surroundings and be ready to react to enemy attacks. The player should always be looking for enemy ships and be ready to dodge their fire.
- Use your laser cannon wisely. The player’s laser cannon is their only weapon, so it is important to use it wisely. The player should only fire their laser cannon when they are sure that they will hit an enemy ship.
- Don’t be afraid to die. The player will die many times in Space Spartans. This is part of the game. The player should not get discouraged if they die, and they should just keep trying until they beat the game.
Additional Information
- Developer: Bally Midway
- Release Date: 1982
- Genre: Top-down space shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 5200, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, MSX
- Number of Players: 1
- ESRB Rating: Everyone
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
