If you’re a fan of classic video games, then you need to experience the awesomeness that is the Atari 2600. This console may have been released in 1977, but it still has a loyal fan base today.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 classic Atari 2600 games that you need to play.
1. Pac-Man
No classic gaming list would be complete without mentioning Pac-Man. The Atari 2600 version of this game may not be as polished as the arcade version, but it still deserves a spot on this list.
The gameplay remains true to the original, so you get to guide Pac-Man through the maze while chomping on pellets and avoiding ghosts. The graphics may be simple, but they’re still charming and a lot of fun.
2. Space Invaders
Another classic arcade game that made its way to the Atari 2600 is Space Invaders. This game is a must-play for any retro gaming fan.
The gameplay remains unchanged, with you controlling a spaceship and trying to shoot down alien ships before they reach the ground. The graphics are simple but effective, and the sound effects are iconic.
3. Pitfall!
Pitfall! is one of the most popular games for the Atari 2600, and for good reason. It’s a platformer where you control Harry, who is on a quest to find treasure in a jungle.
The game has a lot of variety in its gameplay, with Harry jumping over pits, swinging on vines, and avoiding dangerous creatures. The graphics are impressive for their time, and the soundtrack is catchy and memorable.
4. River Raid
River Raid is a shooting game where you control a fighter jet moving down a river filled with bridges, enemies, and fuel stops. The gameplay is challenging and addictive, and the graphics are impressive for their time.
One of the best things about River Raid is the ability to move your fighter jet up and down the screen. This adds a new level of strategy to the game, as you have to avoid obstacles while also taking down enemy planes.
5. Yars’ Revenge
Yars’ Revenge is a unique shooter game where you control a Yar, a creature trying to destroy a fortress called the Qotile. The game has a lot of depth and variety, with different types of enemies and weapons to choose from.
What sets Yars’ Revenge apart from other shooting games is the way it blends different gameplay elements, such as shooter and strategy. The graphics and sound effects are also noteworthy, with bright colors and catchy tunes.
6. Missile Command
Missile Command is a classic game that requires you to defend a city from incoming missiles. You control a cursor that you move around the screen and use to shoot down missiles before they reach the ground.
The graphics may be simple, but the gameplay is challenging and addictive. Plus, the concept of defending a city from incoming missiles is one that still resonates today.
7. Adventure
Adventure is a classic adventure game, and one of the earliest examples of the genre. You play as a hero trying to find a magical chalice in a castle filled with dragons and other obstacles.
What makes Adventure so unique is the ability to interact with the environment in different ways, such as picking up objects and unlocking doors. The graphics may be basic, but the gameplay is still captivating.
8. Centipede
Centipede is a classic arcade game where you control a shooter trying to take down a centipede as it moves down the screen. The game is challenging and addictive, with multiple levels and power-ups to keep things interesting.
The graphics are simple but effective, and the sound effects are iconic. Centipede is a game that’s easily picked up and played, but difficult to master.
9. Kaboom!
Kaboom! is a game that’s simple in concept but challenging in execution. You play as a catcher trying to catch bombs that are falling from the sky. If you miss too many, then it’s game over.
The gameplay is fast-paced and addictive, with multiple difficulty levels to choose from. The graphics are simple but effective, with bright colors and catchy tunes.
10. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Finally, we have E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. This game is infamous for being considered one of the worst video games of all time, but it still deserves a spot on this list.
The gameplay is a bit confusing and frustrating, but it’s worth playing just for the novelty factor. Plus, if you’re a fan of the movie, then you may appreciate the chance to play as E.T. and help him find his way home.
Conclusion
There you have it, the top 10 classic Atari 2600 games that you need to play. These games may be old, but they’re still a lot of fun to play, and they’re a piece of video game history that every gamer should experience.
