Platform: Atari 5200

Xevious (1982)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Xevious (1982): The Space Shooter That Defined a Genre

Xevious is a classic arcade shoot ’em up game released by Namco in 1982. It was one of the first games to feature smooth scrolling graphics and multiple enemy types, and its distinctive gameplay and visuals have made it a beloved favorite among gamers for decades.

Gameplay

Xevious is a vertically scrolling shooter in which the player controls a Solvalou Fighter Plane. The objective of the game is to destroy the Xevious Mother Ship, which is located at the end of each stage. To do this, the player must navigate through waves of enemy ships, tanks, and other obstacles while avoiding their fire.

The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a forward-firing laser, bombs, and missiles. The player can also collect power-ups to increase their firepower and speed.

Enemies

Xevious features a wide variety of enemy types, each with its own unique attack patterns. Some of the most common enemies include:

  • Domogram Rovers: These are small, ground-based tanks that fire bullets at the player.
  • Toroid Patrol Fleets: These are flying saucers that fire lasers and bombs.
  • Zoshi Death Squads: These are fast-moving, kamikaze planes that explode on contact with the player’s ship.
  • Andor Genesis: These are large, powerful battleships that fire a variety of weapons.
  • Xevious Mother Ship: This is the final boss of the game. It is a massive, heavily armed spaceship that fires a variety of deadly weapons.

Graphics and Sound

Xevious was one of the first arcade games to feature smooth scrolling graphics. This gave the game a sense of speed and excitement that was unmatched by other games at the time. The game’s visuals are also notable for their vibrant colors and detailed sprites.

The sound in Xevious is equally impressive. The game’s soundtrack is composed of catchy, upbeat tunes that perfectly capture the game’s frantic pace. The sound effects are also excellent, with each weapon and enemy type having its own unique sound.

Legacy

Xevious was a huge success in arcades, and it has remained popular with gamers ever since. The game has been ported to numerous home consoles and computers, and it is still available to play on modern platforms.

Xevious has also been influential in the development of other shoot ’em up games. Its smooth scrolling graphics, multiple enemy types, and challenging gameplay have become staples of the genre.

Conclusion

Xevious is a classic arcade shoot ’em up game that defined a genre. Its smooth scrolling graphics, multiple enemy types, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’ve never played Xevious before, I highly recommend checking it out. You won’t be disappointed.

Additional Information

  • Xevious was developed by Namco, which is now known as Bandai Namco Entertainment.
  • The game was designed by Masanobu Endoh, who also designed Galaga and Pac-Man.
  • Xevious was one of the first arcade games to use a microprocessor.
  • The game was ported to the Atari 2600 in 1983.
  • Xevious has been re-released on numerous platforms over the years, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

Review Score

8.5/10

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The Activision Decathlon (1983)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

The Activision Decathlon (1983): A Retro Classic for the Ages

Released in 1983 by Activision, The Activision Decathlon is a pioneering sports game that simulates the grueling ten-event competition of the Olympic decathlon. Players take on the role of a world-class athlete and must excel in each discipline to earn the coveted title of “World’s Greatest Athlete.”

Gameplay

The Activision Decathlon faithfully recreates the ten events of the Olympic decathlon:

  1. 100-meter dash
  2. Long jump
  3. Shot put
  4. High jump
  5. 400-meter dash
  6. 110-meter hurdles
  7. Discus throw
  8. Pole vault
  9. Javelin throw
  10. 1500-meter run

Gameplay is simple yet challenging. Players use the joystick to control their athlete’s movements and timing. Each event requires a unique combination of speed, precision, and strategy. For example, in the 100-meter dash, players must carefully time their button presses to achieve maximum acceleration, while in the high jump, they must judge the perfect moment to leap over the bar.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, The Activision Decathlon boasted impressive graphics and sound. The athletes are depicted as detailed sprites, and the environments are rendered with vibrant colors. The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring catchy tunes that add to the excitement of the competition.

Legacy

The Activision Decathlon was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest sports games of all time, and its influence can be seen in countless subsequent sports titles. The game’s realistic gameplay, engaging events, and timeless graphics have ensured its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Cultural Impact

Beyond the world of gaming, The Activision Decathlon has had a significant cultural impact. The game’s iconic imagery and catchy theme music have been referenced in popular culture, including in movies, TV shows, and music videos. It has also inspired countless gamers to pursue their own athletic endeavors, fostering a love of sports and healthy competition.

Modern Re-releases

The Activision Decathlon has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. These re-releases have introduced the game to a new generation of gamers, allowing them to experience the timeless thrill of competing in the world’s greatest athletic competition.

Tips for Playing

If you’re new to The Activision Decathlon, here are a few tips to help you succeed:

  • Practice: The key to success in The Activision Decathlon is practice. Play each event repeatedly to master the controls and develop your timing.
  • Conserve energy: Don’t waste your energy on events that you’re not good at. Focus on maximizing your performance in the events where you excel.
  • Study your opponents: Pay attention to the strengths and weaknesses of your opponents. This will help you develop strategies to overcome them.
  • Don’t give up: The Activision Decathlon is a challenging game, but don’t give up if you don’t win right away. Keep practicing and you’ll eventually reach the podium.

Conclusion

The Activision Decathlon (1983) is a masterpiece of retro gaming that continues to entertain and challenge players to this day. Its engaging gameplay, iconic graphics, and timeless soundtrack have cemented its place as one of the greatest sports games of all time. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of retro gaming, The Activision Decathlon is an essential experience that will provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Kaboom! (1981)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Kaboom! (1981): A Retro Bombastic Extravaganza

Prepare yourself for an explosive journey back in time to the golden age of arcade gaming with Kaboom! (1981), an unauthorized adaptation of Atari’s classic coin-op Avalanche. While the gameplay mechanics remain fundamentally the same, Kaboom! introduces a unique twist with its mad bomber theme, transforming the falling rocks into an onslaught of bombs.

Gameplay: A Frantic Dance with Explosives

Kaboom! challenges players with a deceptively simple yet highly addictive gameplay loop. Using a paddle controller, you must skillfully maneuver a set of three buckets to catch bombs relentlessly dropped by the Mad Bomber lurking at the top of the screen. Each successful catch earns you points, and as you accumulate 1,000 points, you’re rewarded with an additional bucket, up to a maximum of three. However, the game introduces a thrilling element of risk and reward: every missed bomb costs you one of your precious buckets.

As you progress through the game’s seven increasingly difficult levels, the Mad Bomber becomes more erratic in his movements, dropping bombs at ever-increasing speeds. This relentless onslaught demands quick reflexes, precise timing, and a keen eye to anticipate the trajectory of each explosive projectile.

Legacy: A Detonating Force in Gaming History

Despite being an unauthorized adaptation, Kaboom! left an undeniable mark on gaming history. Its frantic gameplay and charming graphics resonated with countless players, solidifying its status as a beloved arcade classic. The game’s influence can still be felt in modern titles, with its core mechanics inspiring games like Tetris and Puyo Puyo.

Critical Reception: A Resounding Explosion of Praise

Upon its release, Kaboom! garnered widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers lauded its addictive gameplay, charming visuals, and innovative use of the paddle controller. Many praised the game’s ability to provide both casual and hardcore gamers with an equally enjoyable experience.

Cultural Impact: A Bombastic Pop Culture Phenomenon

Kaboom!’s popularity extended beyond the arcade scene, becoming a cultural phenomenon that permeated popular culture. The game’s iconic graphics and gameplay were featured in numerous magazines, newspapers, and even television shows. It also inspired a range of merchandise, including T-shirts, posters, and even a board game.

The Enduring Legacy of Kaboom!

Over four decades after its initial release, Kaboom! remains a beloved and influential game. Its simple yet challenging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic appeal continue to captivate gamers of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned retro enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classic arcade games, Kaboom! is an explosive experience that will leave you hooked from the very first bomb you catch.

Tips for Mastering the Mad Bomber’s Mayhem

  • Anticipate the Bombardment: Pay close attention to the Mad Bomber’s movements and try to predict where he will drop his next bomb.
  • Position Your Buckets Wisely: Place your buckets strategically to cover as much of the screen as possible without leaving any gaps for bombs to slip through.
  • Stay Calm Under Pressure: The game’s frantic pace can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to remain calm and focused to avoid making costly mistakes.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Sacrifice a Bucket: Sometimes, it’s better to lose a bucket than to let a bomb reach the bottom of the screen. Don’t hesitate to sacrifice a bucket to protect your remaining ones.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Like any skill, mastering Kaboom! takes practice. The more you play, the better you will become at anticipating the Mad Bomber’s attacks and positioning your buckets effectively.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Jr. Pac-Man (1983)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Jr. Pac-Man: A Retro Classic That Still Packs a Punch

Released in 1983, Jr. Pac-Man is a sequel to the iconic arcade game Pac-Man. It features similar gameplay to its predecessor, but with some key differences that make it a unique and enjoyable experience in its own right.

Gameplay

Jr. Pac-Man is a maze game in which the player controls the titular character, Jr. Pac-Man, as he navigates a maze filled with dots and ghosts. The goal of the game is to eat all of the dots in the maze while avoiding capture by the ghosts.

The ghosts in Jr. Pac-Man are named Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde, and each has its own unique AI and behavior. Blinky is the fastest ghost and always chases Jr. Pac-Man directly. Pinky tries to cut off Jr. Pac-Man’s escape routes. Inky is the most unpredictable ghost, and his movements are based on the positions of Jr. Pac-Man and the other ghosts. Clyde is the slowest ghost, and he tends to wander around the maze randomly.

Jr. Pac-Man can eat an energizer to turn the ghosts blue and make them vulnerable for a short time. When a ghost is blue, Jr. Pac-Man can eat it to send it back to its home base. Eating all four ghosts in a row will award Jr. Pac-Man with a bonus score.

Levels

Jr. Pac-Man has 256 levels, each with its own unique maze layout. The mazes become increasingly difficult as the player progresses through the game, with more ghosts and obstacles to contend with.

Power-Ups

In addition to energizers, there are other power-ups that can help Jr. Pac-Man in his quest to eat all of the dots. These power-ups include:

  • Speed pellets: These pellets make Jr. Pac-Man move faster for a short time.
  • Super pellets: These pellets make Jr. Pac-Man invincible for a short time.
  • Fruit: Eating fruit awards Jr. Pac-Man with bonus points.

Legacy

Jr. Pac-Man was a huge commercial success, selling over 100,000 arcade cabinets worldwide. It was also critically acclaimed, with many reviewers praising its innovative gameplay and addictive nature.

Jr. Pac-Man has been ported to numerous home consoles and computers over the years, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts. It is also considered to be one of the most influential video games of all time, and it has helped to pave the way for the modern video game industry.

Conclusion

Jr. Pac-Man is a classic arcade game that still holds up today. It is a fun and challenging game that is sure to appeal to gamers of all ages. If you are a fan of Pac-Man or retro gaming in general, then you owe it to yourself to check out Jr. Pac-Man.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Popeye (1982)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Popeye (1982): A Classic Arcade Gem

Popeye is a 1982 arcade game developed and released by Nintendo based on the popular cartoon characters licensed from King Features Syndicate. The game was a huge success, becoming one of the best-selling arcade games of all time. It was also ported to a number of home consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), where it became one of the system’s best-selling games.

Popeye is a simple yet addictive game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. The player controls Popeye, who must rescue his girlfriend Olive Oyl from the clutches of the evil Bluto. Popeye can punch and kick Bluto, as well as use a variety of items to help him, such as spinach, hamburgers, and hearts.

The game is set in a variety of locations, including Popeye’s house, the docks, and Bluto’s hideout. Each location has its own unique hazards and enemies, and Popeye must use his wits and skills to overcome them all.

Popeye was praised for its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and catchy music. It was also one of the first arcade games to feature a two-player cooperative mode, which allowed players to work together to defeat Bluto.

Gameplay

Popeye is a side-scrolling platformer game. The player controls Popeye, who must rescue Olive Oyl from Bluto. Popeye can punch and kick Bluto, as well as use a variety of items to help him, such as spinach, hamburgers, and hearts.

The game is divided into three levels, each with its own unique setting and enemies. In the first level, Popeye must navigate through Popeye’s house and the docks to reach Bluto’s hideout. In the second level, Popeye must fight his way through Bluto’s hideout to reach Olive Oyl. In the third and final level, Popeye must defeat Bluto in a final showdown.

Items

Popeye can collect a variety of items to help him on his quest. These items include:

  • Spinach: Gives Popeye a temporary boost of strength and invincibility.
  • Hamburgers: Restores Popeye’s health.
  • Hearts: Gives Popeye an extra life.
  • Letters: Collect all of the letters to spell out the word “POPEYE” and earn bonus points.

Enemies

Popeye must fight a variety of enemies on his quest to rescue Olive Oyl. These enemies include:

  • Wimpy: A weak enemy that can be defeated with a single punch or kick.
  • Sea Hag: A witch who can shoot fireballs and turn Popeye into a frog.
  • Bluto: The main antagonist of the game. Bluto is a powerful enemy who can punch, kick, and throw barrels.

Legacy

Popeye was a huge success, becoming one of the best-selling arcade games of all time. It was also ported to a number of home consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), where it became one of the system’s best-selling games.

Popeye has been praised for its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and catchy music. It is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of all time.

Popeye (1982) is a must-play for fans of classic arcade games, platformers, and Popeye the Sailor Man.

Review Score

8/10

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Vanguard (1981)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Vanguard: A Vertical Scrolling Shoot ‘Em Up Classic

Released in 1981, Vanguard is a vertical scrolling shoot ’em up arcade game developed by SNK and released by Centuri. The player controls a spaceship that must defeat waves of enemy ships and other obstacles in order to progress through five different zones to the City of Mystery, where the creature Gond awaits.

Gameplay

Vanguard is a vertically scrolling shoot ’em up in which the player controls a spaceship that can move in all four directions. The player’s ship can fire in any of the four directions, but doing so causes the ship to move in that direction as well. This can be a challenge, as the player must be careful not to crash into obstacles or enemy fire.

The game is divided into five zones, each with its own unique set of enemies and obstacles. The player must defeat all of the enemies in a zone in order to progress to the next one. The zones become increasingly difficult as the player progresses, with faster and more powerful enemies.

In addition to defeating enemies, the player can also collect power-ups that grant them temporary invincibility or other bonuses. These power-ups can be very helpful in surviving the game’s more difficult sections.

Graphics and Sound

Vanguard’s graphics are simple but effective. The game’s backgrounds are colorful and detailed, and the enemy ships are varied and well-animated. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, with each weapon and enemy type having its own unique sound.

Legacy

Vanguard was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging difficulty, and excellent graphics and sound. The game has been ported to a number of home platforms over the years, and it remains a popular classic among shoot ’em up fans.

Gameplay Tips

Here are a few tips for playing Vanguard:

  • Use the invincibility power-up wisely. It can be very helpful for getting through difficult sections of the game.

  • Be careful not to crash into obstacles or enemy fire. This is the most common way to lose a life.

  • Try to collect as many power-ups as possible. They can give you a significant advantage in battle.

  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies. There is no one right way to play Vanguard.

Conclusion

Vanguard is a classic shoot ’em up that still holds up today. It’s a challenging and rewarding game with great graphics and sound. If you’re a fan of shoot ’em ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Vanguard.

Additional Information

  • Vanguard was one of the first vertically scrolling shoot ’em ups.

  • The game was ported to the Atari 2600, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum home computers.

  • Vanguard was followed by a sequel, Vanguard II, in 1984.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Star Raiders (1980)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Star Raiders: A Space Combat Classic

Released in 1980 for the Atari 8-bit family of computers, Star Raiders is a first-person space combat simulator that was groundbreaking for its time. It was one of the first games to feature 3D graphics, and its immersive gameplay and realistic graphics made it a huge hit with gamers. Star Raiders was also a critical success, winning numerous awards and accolades.

The game is set in the year 2380, and the player takes on the role of a starship captain tasked with defending the galaxy from an invading fleet of alien “Zylon” vessels. The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons and systems, and they must use all of their skills to survive and defeat the enemy.

Star Raiders is played from a first-person perspective, and the player has a 360-degree view of their surroundings. The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and they create a convincing illusion of depth and space. The player’s ship is represented by a wireframe model, and the enemy ships are represented by simple sprites. The game’s starfield is also procedurally generated, which means that it is different every time the player plays.

The gameplay in Star Raiders is fast-paced and exciting. The player must constantly maneuver their ship to avoid enemy fire and line up their own shots. The game also features a variety of different enemy ships, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player must learn to identify each type of enemy ship and develop strategies to defeat them.

In addition to the main campaign, Star Raiders also features a number of bonus missions and challenges. These missions can be played solo or with a friend in co-op mode. The game also features a built-in mission editor, which allows players to create their own custom missions.

Star Raiders was a huge critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most important video games of all time. It was one of the first games to truly capture the excitement of space combat, and it set the standard for future space combat simulators. Star Raiders is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be a classic of the genre.

Gameplay

Star Raiders is a first-person space combat simulator. The player controls a starship and must defend the galaxy from an invading fleet of alien Zylon vessels. The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons and systems, including lasers, missiles, and shields. The player must use all of their skills to survive and defeat the enemy.

The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player has a 360-degree view of their surroundings. The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and they create a convincing illusion of depth and space. The player’s ship is represented by a wireframe model, and the enemy ships are represented by simple sprites. The game’s starfield is also procedurally generated, which means that it is different every time the player plays.

The gameplay in Star Raiders is fast-paced and exciting. The player must constantly maneuver their ship to avoid enemy fire and line up their own shots. The game also features a variety of different enemy ships, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player must learn to identify each type of enemy ship and develop strategies to defeat them.

In addition to the main campaign, Star Raiders also features a number of bonus missions and challenges. These missions can be played solo or with a friend in co-op mode. The game also features a built-in mission editor, which allows players to create their own custom missions.

Development

Star Raiders was developed by Doug Neubauer, an Atari employee. Neubauer was inspired to create the game after playing Spacewar!, one of the first video games ever created. Neubauer wanted to create a more realistic and immersive space combat game, and he spent several years developing Star Raiders.

The game was originally released for the Atari 8-bit family of computers in 1980. It was later ported to the Atari 2600, Atari 5200, and Atari ST. Star Raiders was also released for the Apple II, Commodore 64, and IBM PC.

Reception

Star Raiders was a huge critical and commercial success. It was one of the first games to truly capture the excitement of space combat, and it set the standard for future space combat simulators. The game was praised for its realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and challenging difficulty.

Star Raiders won numerous awards and accolades, including the Golden Joystick Award for Game of the Year in 1981. The game was also inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2015.

Legacy

Star Raiders is considered to be one of the most important video games of all time. It was one of the first games to feature 3D graphics, and it set the standard for future space combat simulators. Star Raiders inspired a number of imitators, including Elite, Wing Commander, and Star Wars: X-Wing.

The game is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be a classic of the genre. Star Raiders has been re-released several times over the years, and it is available on a variety of platforms, including the Atari Flashback and the Nintendo Switch.

Conclusion

Star Raiders is a classic space combat simulator that was groundbreaking for its time. The game’s realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and challenging difficulty made it a huge hit with gamers. Star Raiders is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be one of the most important video games of all time.

Review Score

9/10

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Montezuma’s Revenge (1983)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Montezuma’s Revenge: A Classic Adventure Game That Still Holds Up Today

Released in 1983 for the Atari 2600, Montezuma’s Revenge is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. It’s a challenging but fair game with great graphics and sound. Players control Panama Joe, a treasure hunter who must navigate a series of treacherous levels in order to find and defeat Montezuma, the Aztec emperor.

The game is set in a lush jungle environment, and the levels are filled with challenging platforming and puzzle-solving. Panama Joe must use his wits and agility to avoid traps, enemies, and other obstacles. He can also collect power-ups and weapons to help him on his quest.

One of the things that makes Montezuma’s Revenge so special is its graphics. The game’s vibrant colors and detailed sprites are impressive for the time, and they still look good today. The game’s sound is also top-notch, with a catchy soundtrack and realistic sound effects.

Another thing that makes Montezuma’s Revenge so great is its gameplay. The game is challenging but fair, and it offers a good amount of replay value. There are multiple levels to complete, and each level is filled with its own unique challenges. The game also features a variety of power-ups and weapons that can help players on their quest.

Overall, Montezuma’s Revenge is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. It’s a challenging but fair game with great graphics and sound. If you’re a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Montezuma’s Revenge.

Gameplay

Montezuma’s Revenge is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Panama Joe, a treasure hunter who must navigate a series of treacherous levels in order to find and defeat Montezuma, the Aztec emperor. The game is played from a third-person perspective, and Panama Joe can move left, right, jump, and shoot.

The levels in Montezuma’s Revenge are filled with a variety of challenges, including traps, enemies, and puzzles. Panama Joe must use his wits and agility to avoid these challenges and reach the end of each level. He can also collect power-ups and weapons to help him on his quest.

The power-ups in Montezuma’s Revenge include a variety of items that can help Panama Joe on his quest. These items include:

  • The Cross: The Cross allows Panama Joe to shoot fireballs.
  • The Sword: The Sword allows Panama Joe to attack enemies with a close-range weapon.
  • The Shield: The Shield protects Panama Joe from enemy attacks.
  • The Key: The Key allows Panama Joe to open doors and chests.

The weapons in Montezuma’s Revenge include a variety of items that can be used to attack enemies. These items include:

  • The Gun: The Gun allows Panama Joe to shoot bullets.
  • The Bomb: The Bomb allows Panama Joe to blow up enemies.
  • The Arrow: The Arrow allows Panama Joe to shoot arrows.

Development

Montezuma’s Revenge was developed by Robert Jaeger and Chris Oberth for the Atari 2600. The game was inspired by the arcade game Donkey Kong, and it was one of the first games to feature a scrolling screen.

The development of Montezuma’s Revenge was a challenging process. Jaeger and Oberth had to work within the limitations of the Atari 2600 hardware, and they had to come up with creative ways to create a challenging and engaging game.

Despite the challenges, Jaeger and Oberth were able to create a classic game that has stood the test of time. Montezuma’s Revenge is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be one of the best games ever released for the Atari 2600.

Legacy

Montezuma’s Revenge has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative gameplay and graphics helped to set a new standard for adventure games, and it inspired many other games that followed.

Montezuma’s Revenge has also been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Commodore 64, the Apple II, and the PC. The game has also been re-released on modern platforms, such as the Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Network.

Montezuma’s Revenge is a classic game that still holds up today. It’s a challenging but fair game with great graphics and sound. If you’re a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Montezuma’s Revenge.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Choplifter (1982)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Choplifter (1982): A Classic Military-Themed Scrolling Shooter

Choplifter is a military-themed scrolling shooter arcade game developed and published by Dan Gorlin and Broderbund in 1982. The player takes control of a helicopter pilot who must rescue hostages from enemy territory. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it has been ported to numerous home computers and consoles.

Gameplay

Choplifter is a horizontally-scrolling shooter game. The player controls a helicopter pilot who must rescue hostages from enemy territory. The hostages are located in a series of buildings, and the player must land the helicopter in each building to rescue them.

The player’s helicopter is armed with a machine gun and missiles. The player can use the machine gun to destroy enemy troops and vehicles, and the missiles can be used to destroy enemy buildings. The player must also avoid enemy fire and obstacles, such as trees and rocks.

The game is divided into a series of levels, each with its own unique layout and objectives. The player must complete each level in order to progress to the next one. The game becomes more difficult as the player progresses, with more enemies and obstacles to contend with.

Development

Choplifter was developed by Dan Gorlin, who was inspired by the 1981 arcade game Scramble. Gorlin wanted to create a game that was more challenging and strategic than Scramble, and he added a number of new features to Choplifter, such as the ability to rescue hostages and the use of missiles.

Gorlin also paid close attention to the game’s graphics and sound. The game’s colorful graphics and catchy music helped to make it a standout among other arcade games of the time.

Release

Choplifter was released in arcades in 1982. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it was soon ported to numerous home computers and consoles. The home versions of the game were generally well-received, although some critics found them to be too difficult.

Legacy

Choplifter is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of the 1980s. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music have made it a favorite of gamers for over 40 years. Choplifter has also been influential on the development of other video games, such as the Grand Theft Auto series.

Tips for Playing Choplifter

Here are a few tips for playing Choplifter:

  • Use the machine gun to destroy enemy troops and vehicles.
  • Use the missiles to destroy enemy buildings.
  • Avoid enemy fire and obstacles.
  • Land the helicopter carefully in each building to rescue the hostages.
  • Don’t be afraid to use the helicopter’s hover mode to stay in the air and avoid enemy fire.
  • Practice makes perfect! The more you play Choplifter, the better you will become at it.

Conclusion

Choplifter is a classic military-themed scrolling shooter that still holds up today. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging arcade game to play, then Choplifter is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

9/10

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Star Wars (1983)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Star Wars (1983): The Arcade Classic That Defined a Generation

Released in 1983, Star Wars was one of the most popular arcade games of all time. It was a first-person shooter that put players in the cockpit of an X-wing fighter, tasked with destroying the Death Star. The game was groundbreaking for its time, using vector graphics to create a fast-paced and immersive experience.

Star Wars was developed by Atari, Inc., which had previously released a number of other popular arcade games, including Pong, Asteroids, and Missile Command. Atari was founded in 1972 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney, and it quickly became one of the most successful video game companies in the world.

The development of Star Wars was led by Howard Delman, who had previously worked on Asteroids and Missile Command. Delman was a pioneer in the field of video game development, and he is credited with creating some of the most iconic arcade games of all time.

Star Wars was an instant success when it was released in 1983. Players were drawn to its fast-paced action, immersive graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game was also one of the first to feature a licensed property, which helped to increase its popularity.

Star Wars was ported to a number of home consoles, including the Atari 2600, ColecoVision, and Commodore 64. The home versions of the game were not as popular as the arcade version, but they still sold well and helped to introduce Star Wars to a new generation of gamers.

Star Wars has been praised by critics for its groundbreaking graphics, innovative gameplay, and lasting legacy. The game has been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame, and it is still considered to be one of the greatest arcade games of all time.

Gameplay

Star Wars is a first-person shooter that puts players in the cockpit of an X-wing fighter. The player’s goal is to destroy the Death Star, which is a massive space station that is the ultimate weapon of the Galactic Empire.

To destroy the Death Star, the player must first fly through a trench and avoid being hit by TIE fighters and other enemy ships. Once the player reaches the end of the trench, they must fire a proton torpedo into the Death Star’s exhaust port. If the player is successful, the Death Star will be destroyed.

Star Wars is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The game’s fast-paced action and immersive graphics make it a truly unique experience.

Graphics

Star Wars was one of the first arcade games to use vector graphics. Vector graphics are created using mathematical equations, which allows for very fast and detailed images. This made Star Wars one of the most visually impressive arcade games of its time.

The game’s graphics are still impressive today. The X-wing fighter is rendered in great detail, and the Death Star is a truly imposing sight. The game’s use of color is also very effective, with the bright blue of the X-wing fighter contrasting nicely with the dark green of the Death Star.

Sound

The sound effects in Star Wars are simple but effective. The player’s X-wing fighter makes a distinctive laser sound when it fires, and the TIE fighters make a high-pitched whine. The game also features a memorable theme song that is sure to get stuck in your head.

Legacy

Star Wars is one of the most iconic arcade games of all time. It was a groundbreaking game that helped to define the first-person shooter genre. The game’s fast-paced action, immersive graphics, and challenging gameplay have made it a favorite of gamers for over 30 years.

Star Wars has been ported to a number of home consoles, and it has also been released on a variety of compilation discs. The game is still available for purchase today, and it is still enjoyed by gamers of all ages.

Star Wars is a true classic that deserves its place in the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The game is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the early video game pioneers.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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