Pong: The Next Level (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Pong: The Next Level (1999)

Pong: The Next Level is a 1999 arcade game developed and published by Atari Games. It is a sequel to the classic 1972 game Pong, and features updated 32-bit graphics and gameplay.

The goal of Pong: The Next Level is the same as the original game: to control a paddle and prevent the ball from passing into your goal. However, The Next Level adds a number of new features and challenges to the classic formula.

One of the most significant additions to The Next Level is the inclusion of six different zones, each with its own unique set of challenges. These zones include:

  • Classic Zone: This zone is a recreation of the original Pong game, with simple gameplay and no power-ups.
  • Speed Zone: This zone features faster gameplay and smaller paddles, making it more difficult to keep up with the ball.
  • Power Zone: This zone includes power-ups that can give you an advantage over your opponent, such as increased speed or the ability to shoot fireballs.
  • Trick Zone: This zone features a variety of obstacles and hazards that can make it difficult to control your paddle and the ball.
  • Boss Zone: This zone features a challenging boss battle against a computer-controlled opponent.
  • Challenge Zone: This zone features a variety of different challenges, such as having to hit the ball a certain number of times or avoid obstacles.

In addition to the six main zones, Pong: The Next Level also includes a number of bonus rounds and minigames. These bonus rounds and minigames can be played to earn extra points or lives.

Pong: The Next Level was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best Pong sequels ever made. It was praised for its updated graphics and gameplay, as well as its variety of challenges and bonus rounds.

Gameplay

Pong: The Next Level is played with a single paddle that is controlled by the player. The player moves the paddle up and down the screen to hit the ball and prevent it from passing into their goal. The ball can be hit with either the top or bottom of the paddle, and the angle of the hit will determine the direction of the ball.

The player’s goal is to reach the level’s preset point total before their opponent. Points are scored by hitting the ball into the opponent’s goal. The first player to reach the point total wins the match.

Power-ups

Most one-on-one games in Pong: The Next Level include power-ups that can give you an advantage over your opponent. Power-ups can be collected by hitting them with the ball.

There are a variety of different power-ups available in Pong: The Next Level, including:

  • Speed: Increases the speed of your paddle.
  • Fireball: Allows you to shoot fireballs at your opponent.
  • Shield: Protects your goal from the ball.
  • Extra Life: Gives you an extra life.

Power-ups can be a major advantage in Pong: The Next Level, so be sure to collect them whenever you can.

Zones

Pong: The Next Level features six different zones, each with its own unique set of challenges. The zones are:

  • Classic Zone: This zone is a recreation of the original Pong game, with simple gameplay and no power-ups.
  • Speed Zone: This zone features faster gameplay and smaller paddles, making it more difficult to keep up with the ball.
  • Power Zone: This zone includes power-ups that can give you an advantage over your opponent, such as increased speed or the ability to shoot fireballs.
  • Trick Zone: This zone features a variety of obstacles and hazards that can make it difficult to control your paddle and the ball.
  • Boss Zone: This zone features a challenging boss battle against a computer-controlled opponent.
  • Challenge Zone: This zone features a variety of different challenges, such as having to hit the ball a certain number of times or avoid obstacles.

Each zone in Pong: The Next Level is progressively more difficult than the last. The Boss Zone is the most challenging zone in the game, and requires you to defeat a powerful computer-controlled opponent.

Bonus Rounds and Minigames

In addition to the six main zones, Pong: The Next Level also includes a number of bonus rounds and minigames. These bonus rounds and minigames can be played to earn extra points or lives.

The bonus rounds and minigames in Pong: The Next Level include:

  • Breakout: A Breakout-style game where you must use your paddle to break all of the bricks on the screen.
  • Target Practice: A target practice game where you must shoot fireballs at targets to score points.
  • Pong Pong: A variation on the classic Pong game where you control two paddles at the same time.
  • Memory Match: A memory match game where you must match pairs of cards.

The bonus rounds and minigames in Pong: The Next Level are a fun way to earn extra points and lives. Be sure to play them whenever you can.

Reception

Pong: The Next Level was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its updated graphics and gameplay, as well as its variety of challenges and bonus rounds.

Pong: The Next Level was nominated for a number of awards, including the “Best Arcade Game” award at the 2000 Golden Joystick Awards. It was also ranked as one of the “Top 10 Arcade Games of 1999” by IGN.

Pong: The Next Level is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and fun game that offers a variety of different challenges and bonus rounds. If you are a fan of Pong or arcade games in general, then you should definitely check out Pong: The Next Level.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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