Asteroid Attack

Asteroid Attack is a video game in the action genre and published by Softsmith Software originally released in 1982. It is currently playable on VIC-20.

Released in 1982, "Asteroid Attack" was one of the earliest video games developed for the Commodore VIC-20. It quickly gained popularity among gamers due to its unique gameplay and challenging levels. Designed and programmed by Richard Morse, this retro game is a classic example of the addicting and entertaining games of the 80s.

The premise of "Asteroid Attack" is simple yet engaging. Players control a spaceship and must navigate through an asteroid field while defending themselves against incoming attacks from the enemy aliens. The objective is to survive as long as possible and score as many points as possible by shooting down the asteroids and enemy ships. The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses, with a larger number of asteroids and faster-moving enemy ships appearing on the screen.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of "Asteroid Attack" is its impressive graphics and sound effects. Considering the limited capabilities of the VIC-20 computer, Morse managed to create visually appealing graphics that were well ahead of their time. The game's animation was smooth and detailed, with the spaceship and asteroids appearing in different sizes and shapes, adding an element of variety to the gameplay. The sound effects were also top-notch, with the explosions and laser gun sound effects adding to the overall immersion of the game.

Another factor that made "Asteroid Attack" stand out from other games of its time was its two-player option. Players could not only compete against each other for the highest score but also work together to destroy the asteroids and enemy ships. This cooperative mode was a refreshing change from the usual competitive gameplay, and it added to the game's replay value.

However, what truly made "Asteroid Attack" a sensation among gamers was its addictiveness. The simplicity of the gameplay, coupled with its increasing difficulty, kept players hooked for hours on end. The game required quick reflexes and strategy to survive, making it an alluring challenge for players of all ages. The feeling of satisfaction after beating a high score or surviving through a tricky level was unmatched.

Despite being released almost 40 years ago, "Asteroid Attack" continues to hold a special place in the hearts of retro gamers. Its simple yet challenging gameplay, impressive graphics and sound effects, and addictiveness make it a timeless classic. The game's success led to its release on various other platforms, including the Commodore 64, Atari 2600, and Atari 5200, solidifying its place in video game history. Whether you're a nostalgic gamer looking for a trip down memory lane or a younger player wanting to experience the roots of video games, "Asteroid Attack" is a must-try.

It is possible that we have multiple downloads available when different versions exist.