Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Arcade, Strategy
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Access Software
- Publishers: U.S. Gold
Raid over Moscow (1984): A Cold War Classic
Released in 1984, Raid over Moscow is an action game that puts you in the cockpit of an American fighter jet during the Cold War. Your mission: stop three Soviet nuclear attacks on North America and destroy a nuclear facility in the Kremlin.
The game was developed by Access Software and published by Broderbund. It was released for the Apple II, Commodore 64, and IBM PC.
Raid over Moscow was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and soundtrack. The game was also controversial for its depiction of nuclear war.
Gameplay
Raid over Moscow is a side-scrolling shooter. You control an American fighter jet and must fly through waves of Soviet enemies. The game features a variety of enemy aircraft, including MiG fighters, bombers, and helicopters. You must also avoid anti-aircraft fire and other obstacles.
The game is divided into three levels. In the first level, you must stop three Soviet nuclear attacks on North America. In the second level, you must fly through a heavily defended Soviet airspace. In the third level, you must destroy a nuclear facility in the Kremlin.
Graphics
Raid over Moscow features impressive graphics for its time. The game’s backgrounds are detailed and colorful, and the enemy aircraft are well-animated. The game also features a variety of special effects, such as explosions and smoke trails.
Gameplay
Raid over Moscow is a challenging and rewarding game. The game’s difficulty increases as you progress through the levels. However, the game’s controls are responsive and the action is fast-paced.
Soundtrack
Raid over Moscow features a catchy soundtrack composed by David Whittaker. The soundtrack is a mix of electronic and orchestral music. The music helps to create a sense of tension and excitement.
Controversy
Raid over Moscow was controversial for its depiction of nuclear war. The game’s ending shows a mushroom cloud over Moscow. This ending was criticized by some for being too graphic and for glorifying nuclear war.
Legacy
Raid over Moscow is considered to be one of the best action games of the 1980s. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and soundtrack are all top-notch. The game is also notable for its controversial depiction of nuclear war.
Raid over Moscow has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years. The game is available on the PlayStation Network, Xbox Live Arcade, and Steam.
Conclusion
Raid over Moscow is a classic action game that is still worth playing today. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and soundtrack are all top-notch. The game is also notable for its controversial depiction of nuclear war. If you are a fan of action games, then you should definitely check out Raid over Moscow.
Additional Information
- Raid over Moscow was inspired by the real-life Able Archer 83 NATO military exercise. The exercise simulated a nuclear war between NATO and the Soviet Union.
- The game was banned in the Soviet Union.
- Raid over Moscow was one of the first games to feature a female protagonist. The player character’s name is Sarah Ryan.
- The game was featured in the 2015 documentary film The Video Game Revolution.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art

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