Summary
- Release Year: 1980
- Genres: Strategy
- Platforms: Atari 2600
- Developers: Atari
- Publishers: Atari
Video Checkers (1980): A Classic Checkers Game for the Atari 2600
Video Checkers is an early video game version of the classic board game checkers. It was released in 1980 for the Atari 2600 and was one of the first checkers games available for a home video game console.
The game is played on a standard 8×8 checkers board with 12 red pieces and 12 black pieces. The goal of the game is to capture all of your opponent’s pieces or to block them so that they cannot move.
Video Checkers is a simple game to learn, but it can be challenging to master. The computer opponent is a skilled player, and it will take some practice to beat it consistently.
Gameplay
Video Checkers is played using the Atari 2600’s joystick and button. The joystick is used to move the cursor around the board, and the button is used to select and move pieces.
To move a piece, simply move the cursor to the piece you want to move and press the button. The piece will then move to the first empty square in the direction you are moving.
If you move a piece to a square that is occupied by an opponent’s piece, you will capture that piece. Captured pieces are removed from the board.
You can also move pieces backwards, but only if they are kings. Kings are pieces that have reached the other side of the board.
Winning
The game is won by the player who captures all of their opponent’s pieces or blocks them so that they cannot move.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Video Checkers are simple, but they are effective. The board and pieces are clearly visible, and the game is easy to follow.
The sound in Video Checkers is also simple, but it is effective. The game makes a sound when a piece is moved or captured, and it plays a different sound when the game is won.
Overall
Video Checkers is a fun and challenging checkers game for the Atari 2600. It’s a great way to test your strategy skills and have some fun at the same time.
Tips for Playing Video Checkers
Here are a few tips for playing Video Checkers:
- Control the center of the board. The center squares are the most important squares on the board, so try to control them as much as possible.
- Develop your pieces early. Don’t be afraid to move your pieces forward early in the game. This will give you more options later on.
- Protect your kings. Kings are your most valuable pieces, so make sure to protect them.
- Think ahead. Before you move a piece, think about how your opponent will respond. This will help you make better decisions.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to beat the computer opponent in Video Checkers consistently. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try!
Review Score
7/10
