Summary
- Release Year: 1980
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Vectrex
- Developers: Cinematronics
- Publishers: Bandai, GCE, Milton Bradley
Armor Attack (1980): A Retro Tank Battle Classic
Introduction
Released in 1980, Armor Attack is an arcade classic that combines fast-paced tank battles with a maze-like cityscape. The player controls a jeep armed with a rocket launcher and must destroy the many tanks and helicopters that attack them. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, Armor Attack is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and arcade action.
Gameplay
The player controls a jeep that can move in any direction. The jeep is armed with a rocket launcher that fires straight forward; the player can have two rockets on-screen at the time. The goal of the game is to destroy all of the tanks and helicopters that attack the player.
Tanks periodically spawn from different locations on the edge of the screen and drive towards the player. The tanks always travel along horizontal or vertical lines, unlike the freely moving jeep. Tank turrets move to track the player, allowing them to shoot in any direction. Tanks normally take two hits to kill, and the player can have only two rockets on the screen at a time.
The helicopter spawns from any point, and approaches the player in looping paths flying over the jeep and periodically firing. If hit, the helicopter spirals in.
Strategy
The key to success in Armor Attack is to stay moving and avoid getting surrounded by tanks. The player should also try to take out the tanks as quickly as possible, as they can quickly overwhelm the player if they are not dealt with quickly. The player should also be aware of the helicopter, as it can be a nuisance and can quickly damage the player’s jeep.
Power-Ups
There are a few power-ups that can help the player in Armor Attack. These power-ups include:
- Speed Boost: This power-up gives the player’s jeep a temporary speed boost.
- Extra Rockets: This power-up gives the player two extra rockets.
- Invulnerability: This power-up makes the player’s jeep invulnerable to enemy fire for a short period of time.
Legacy
Armor Attack was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1980. The game was praised for its simple yet addictive gameplay, as well as its challenging difficulty. Armor Attack has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Armor Attack is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, challenging difficulty, and power-ups make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming and arcade action.
Tips for Playing Armor Attack
Here are a few tips for playing Armor Attack:
- Stay moving and avoid getting surrounded by tanks.
- Take out the tanks as quickly as possible.
- Be aware of the helicopter and try to avoid getting hit by its fire.
- Use the power-ups to your advantage.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Armor Attack and become a tank-busting pro!
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
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