Vindicators (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Vindicators: A Retro Arcade Classic

Released in 1988, Vindicators is a side-scrolling shoot-em-up arcade game developed and published by Atari Games. The game is set in a futuristic world where the player controls a tank and must battle their way through hordes of aliens to save the Earth.

Vindicators is known for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and unique two-joystick control scheme. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it has been ported to a variety of home platforms over the years.

Gameplay

Vindicators is a vertically scrolling shoot-em-up game. The player controls a tank that can move left, right, and up and down. The tank is equipped with a cannon that can fire both regular shots and homing missiles.

The player must navigate the tank through a series of levels, each of which is filled with enemies and obstacles. The goal of each level is to reach the end and defeat the boss.

Along the way, the player can collect powerups that will help them in their quest. These powerups include fuel, which replenishes the tank’s energy; stars, which can be used to purchase upgrades; shields, which protect the tank from damage; and smart shots and bombs, which are powerful weapons that can be used to defeat enemies.

Difficulty

Vindicators is a challenging game. The enemies are relentless, and the levels are filled with obstacles. The player must be skilled in order to survive and progress through the game.

The game’s difficulty is adjustable, with three different difficulty levels to choose from. The easiest difficulty level is suitable for beginners, while the hardest difficulty level is a challenge for even the most experienced players.

Controls

Vindicators is one of the few arcade games that uses a two-joystick control scheme. The left joystick controls the tank’s movement, while the right joystick controls the tank’s cannon.

This control scheme gives the player a great deal of precision and control over the tank. It takes some time to get used to, but once the player masters it, they will be able to maneuver the tank with ease.

Graphics and Sound

Vindicators has colorful and detailed graphics. The characters and backgrounds are well-drawn, and the animations are smooth.

The game’s sound effects are also excellent. The explosions and gunfire are realistic, and the music is catchy and upbeat.

Multiplayer

Vindicators can be played by up to two players simultaneously. The players can cooperate to defeat the enemies and bosses, or they can compete against each other to see who can score the most points.

The multiplayer mode adds a lot of replay value to the game. It’s a great way to team up with a friend and take on the alien hordes, or to challenge each other to see who is the better tank commander.

Legacy

Vindicators is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and unique two-joystick control scheme make it a standout in the shoot-em-up genre.

Vindicators has been ported to a variety of home platforms over the years, including the Atari ST, Commodore Amiga, and Sega Genesis. The game has also been released on modern platforms, such as the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

Vindicators is a timeless classic that is sure to please fans of shoot-em-up games. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding game to play, then Vindicators is definitely worth checking out.

Tips for Playing Vindicators

  • Use the two-joystick control scheme to your advantage. This control scheme gives you a great deal of precision and control over the tank.
  • Be careful not to run out of fuel. The tank’s fuel is constantly draining, and if you run out of fuel, you will lose a life.
  • Collect powerups whenever you can. Powerups can help you to replenish your fuel, upgrade your tank, and defeat enemies.
  • Don’t be afraid to use your homing missiles and bombs. These weapons are powerful and can help you to defeat enemies quickly.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Vindicators, the better you will become at it. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep practicing and you will eventually master the game.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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