Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Fighting, Racing, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Steven Collins
- Publishers: Domark Software, Tengen
BadLands: A Post-Apocalyptic Racing Classic
Released in 1989, BadLands is an arcade racing game developed and published by Atari Games. It is the spiritual successor to Atari’s previous racing games Super Sprint and Championship Sprint, but with a post-apocalyptic twist.
Gameplay
BadLands is a three-player racing game where players compete in a three-lap race around a small, single-screen circuit. The game features a variety of obstacles, including mines, retractable barricades, and other hazards. Players can also collect wrenches, which can be traded for upgrades such as extra speed, extra acceleration, or better tires.
The main innovation in BadLands is the addition of cannons to each of the cars. Players can use the cannons to shoot at their opponents, slowing them down or even destroying them. The game also features a shop between levels where players can purchase missiles, which can be used to destroy target cars.
Development
BadLands was developed by Atari Games, a subsidiary of Atari, Inc. The game was designed by Ed Logg, who had previously worked on Super Sprint and Championship Sprint. Logg wanted to create a racing game that was more challenging and exciting than its predecessors, and he came up with the idea of adding cannons to the cars.
BadLands was released in arcades in 1989. The game was a commercial success, and it was later ported to home computers and consoles.
Reception
BadLands was praised for its innovative gameplay and its challenging difficulty. Critics praised the game’s fast-paced action and its variety of obstacles and power-ups. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 arcade cabinets.
Legacy
BadLands is considered to be one of the classic arcade racing games. The game’s innovative gameplay and its post-apocalyptic setting have influenced many later racing games. BadLands is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it remains a popular choice for arcade collectors.
Detailed Overview
Graphics
BadLands features simple but effective graphics. The game’s characters and cars are rendered in a cartoony style, and the backgrounds are bright and colorful. The game’s post-apocalyptic setting is well-realized, with destroyed buildings and vehicles littering the tracks.
Sound
BadLands features a catchy soundtrack that perfectly captures the game’s fast-paced action. The sound effects are also well-done, with realistic engine noises and explosions.
Gameplay
BadLands is a fast-paced and challenging racing game. The game’s tracks are filled with obstacles, and players must use their cannons to slow down or destroy their opponents. The game’s shop between levels allows players to purchase upgrades that can give them an edge over their opponents.
Overall
BadLands is a classic arcade racing game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay and its post-apocalyptic setting make it a unique and exciting experience. If you’re a fan of racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out BadLands.
Tips for Playing BadLands
- Use your cannons to slow down or destroy your opponents.
- Collect wrenches to trade for upgrades.
- Use the shop between levels to purchase missiles.
- Learn the tracks and the locations of the obstacles.
- Practice makes perfect!
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
