Games published by Softsmith Software
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We provide a complete list of games published by this publisher.
Asteroid Attack
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.
Con*Putation
Atari's ConPutation is a classic 8-bit game released in 1980. The iconic gameplay casts players in the role of a robot attempting a daring mission of the same name. In essence, the robot must wade through a series of mazes while completing a variety of tasks, such as collecting gems and avoiding obstacles. While the main objective of the game is to make it as far as possible, the journey along the way is just as thrilling.
The retro graphics used in ConPutation are obviously dated compared to the games of today, but they still provide a unique atmosphere and charm. With cleverly designed sound effects and music, the game helps to transport players back in time. During their journey, players will explore a variety of treacherous environments, from murky caves to weed-ridden swamps to dastardly dungeons, each with its own distinct style.
The core gameplay of ConPutation consists of avoiding deadly traps and completing various tasks as quickly as possible. While the game is far from complicated, the difficulty ramps up as each new level is unlocked. Depending on their preferences, players can either speed through or take their time to explore the various environments. Completing particular tasks will also give the player an advantage in the later levels, such as extra points and even bonus levels.
Though time has not been kind to ConPutation, the game is still a fun and nostalgic experience. Its simple yet enjoyable gameplay is perfect for quick, casual gaming sessions, and has provided plenty of enjoyment to classic gamers over the years. Though its legacy may not be as far-reaching as those of today's blockbuster games, its unique blend of retro visuals and nonstop action makes ConPutation a must-have for classic gaming enthusiasts.
Defender on Tri
Defender on Tri was a groundbreaking game released in 1982 for the VIC-20 home computer. Developed by Brøderbund and published by TriMicro, it quickly became one of the most popular and influential games of its time. The game combined elements of action, strategy, and arcade gameplay, creating a unique and immersive experience for players.
At its core, Defender on Tri is a space shooter game where players control a spaceship to defend their planet from alien invaders. The game takes place on the planet Tri, which is under attack by a hostile alien race known as the Vaxxons. As the last line of defense, players must use their ship's weapons and special abilities to fend off waves of enemy ships and protect the planet.
One of the standout features of Defender on Tri is its advanced graphics for the time. The game utilized the VIC-20's capabilities to deliver smooth and detailed visuals, with vibrant colors and intricate designs for both the player's ship and the enemy ships. This added a level of depth and realism to the gameplay, making it more engaging and enjoyable.
In addition to its impressive graphics, Defender on Tri also boasted a dynamic and challenging gameplay. The game progressively gets harder as players advance through the levels, with more aggressive enemies and tougher obstacles to overcome. The Vaxxons also employ different tactics, keeping players on their toes and requiring strategic thinking to defeat them.
Defender on Tri also introduced a novel scoring system that rewarded players for destroying structures on the planet's surface as well as enemy ships. This added a layer of complexity to the game, as players had to balance between defending the planet and maximizing their score. It also encouraged replayability, as players could try to beat their high scores and compete with friends and family.
Another unique aspect of Defender on Tri was its use of sound. The game featured an intense and immersive soundtrack, with pulsating beats and futuristic sound effects that enhanced the overall gaming experience. This, combined with the game's fast-paced action, created an adrenaline-pumping adventure that kept players hooked for hours.
Despite being released almost four decades ago, Defender on Tri's impact on the gaming industry is still felt today. It inspired a whole genre of space shooter games and paved the way for future titles like Galaga and Space Invaders. Its success also led to ports on other platforms, such as the Atari 2600 and Commodore 64, ensuring its legacy continues to this day.
It's a Living!
Atari has always been known for its pioneering efforts in the world of video games, and one of their early releases, Salmon Run, remains a classic in the hearts of many gamers. This game, released in 1982 for the Atari 8-bit systems, was one of the first ones to combine simple yet addictive gameplay with stunning graphics and sound effects. With its unique concept and challenging levels, Salmon Run captured the attention of gamers worldwide and remains a beloved title to this day.
The premise of Salmon Run is simple – players control a salmon as it swims up through a treacherous river filled with obstacles and predators. The goal is to survive for as long as possible and reach the spawning grounds to continue the cycle of life. The gameplay is fast-paced and requires quick reflexes and precise maneuvers to avoid rocks, fishermen, and hungry bears along the way. The intuitive controls and smooth movements of the salmon make it easy for players to immerse themselves in the game and stay engaged for hours.
One of the standout features of Salmon Run is its impressive graphics, especially for its time. The game had vibrant and detailed visuals that showcased the capabilities of the Atari 8-bit systems. The water effects, in particular, were impressive, giving players a realistic feeling of swimming against the current. Furthermore, the game also had charming animations, such as the salmon flopping on the shore after a successful jump or the bears catching the fish in their mouths. These little details added to the overall immersive experience of the game.
In addition to its graphics, Salmon Run also had an impressive sound design. From the soothing sounds of the river to the intense music that played during the more challenging levels, the audio elements of the game enhanced its overall ambiance. The sound effects, like the splashing of water and the chomping of the bears' jaws, added to the thrill and excitement of the gameplay. It's safe to say that Salmon Run was one of the first Atari games to truly utilize sound to its advantage.
The game boasted multiple levels with increasing difficulty, which kept players hooked and motivated to improve their skills. As players progressed, the obstacles and predators become more frequent and challenging, making it a true test of their gaming abilities. The varied landscapes and changing scenery also added a refreshing twist to the gameplay and prevented it from becoming monotonous. Furthermore, Salmon Run also had a two-player mode, allowing friends and family to compete and enjoy the game together.
Star Command
In the ever-evolving world of video games, there are certain titles that have stood the test of time and earned their rightful place in gaming history. One such game is "Star Command," released in 1982 for the VIC-20 computer. This pioneering sci-fi game offered players a unique and immersive experience that still holds up to this day.
Developed by Commodore, "Star Command" was one of the first video games to incorporate strategic elements in a sci-fi setting. The premise of the game is simple yet intriguing – you are the commander of a fleet of starships tasked with protecting your planet from invading alien forces. With limited resources and a number of enemy fleets to battle, the game requires players to think and plan strategically in order to emerge victorious.
One of the standout features of "Star Command" is its graphics. While primitive by today's standards, the game's visuals were considered state-of-the-art at the time of its release. The colorful and detailed graphics of the starships and alien forces added a level of realism and depth to the game, making it a visually appealing experience for players.
But what truly sets "Star Command" apart from other sci-fi games of its time is its gameplay. Unlike most shooting games where the objective is to destroy everything in sight, "Star Command" requires players to carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions. With a limited number of ships and weapons, players must plan their attacks and defenses carefully in order to succeed.
Another unique aspect of "Star Command" is its AI system. The game's AI is constantly adapting and learning from the player's strategies, making each playthrough a unique and challenging experience. This element of unpredictability keeps the game fresh and exciting, even after multiple playthroughs.
Despite its simplistic gameplay, "Star Command" has a steep learning curve. It takes time and practice to master the game's mechanics and come up with successful strategies. This adds a layer of depth and replay value to the game, making it a favorite among hardcore gamers.
