Summary

Release Year: 1983
Genres: Arcade, Shooter
Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Commodore Plus/4, MSX, Thomson MO5, ZX Spectrum
Developers: Access Software, Inc.
Publishers: Eaglesoft, France Image Logiciel, U.S. Gold

Beach-Head (1983): A Timeless Arcade Classic

Released in 1983, Beach-Head is an arcade classic that defined the shoot-’em-up genre. Developed by Access Software and published by Atari, Inc., Beach-Head puts players in the role of a lone soldier fighting against an overwhelming enemy force on a beachhead. With its intense gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics, Beach-Head has stood the test of time as one of the most beloved arcade games of all time.

Gameplay

Beach-Head is a fixed shooter game, meaning that the player’s movement is restricted to a specific area of the screen. The player controls a lone soldier armed with a machine gun and grenades, and must fend off waves of enemy soldiers, tanks, and helicopters. The player’s objective is to survive as long as possible and rack up a high score.

The gameplay is simple yet addictive. The player must constantly move and shoot to avoid being hit by enemy fire. The player can also use grenades to take out multiple enemies at once. As the player progresses through the game, the waves of enemies become increasingly difficult, requiring quick reflexes and strategic use of grenades.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Beach-Head’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game’s use of sprite scaling and parallax scrolling created a sense of depth and immersion that was unmatched by other arcade games of the era. The game’s sound effects and music are also top-notch, creating a tense and exciting atmosphere.

Legacy

Beach-Head was a critical and commercial success, and spawned several sequels and ports to home computers. The game is still fondly remembered by gamers today for its intense gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics. Beach-Head is considered to be one of the most important arcade games of all time, and its influence can still be seen in modern shoot-’em-up games.

Critical Reception

Beach-Head was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the game’s intense gameplay, challenging difficulty, and innovative graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 20,000 arcade cabinets worldwide.

Accolades

Arcade Game of the Year (1983) – RePlay magazine
Best Action Arcade Game (1983) – Arcade Express magazine
2 Top Arcade Game (1983) – Cash Box magazine

Cultural Impact

Beach-Head has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The game has been referenced in movies, TV shows, and music. The game’s iconic graphics and gameplay have also been parodied and imitated in numerous other games.

Conclusion

Beach-Head is a timeless arcade classic that still holds up today. Its intense gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics make it a must-play for any fan of shoot-’em-up games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, Beach-Head is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

Publisher: Eaglesoft

Beach-Head (1983)