Atari Missile Command

Start Game

Atari Missile Command is a classic arcade game. The player’s six cities are being attacked by an endless wave of ballistic missiles. You must save the cities by fending off enemy attacks. Aim your three cannons a free will and destroy enemy artillery. But that’s not all. Planes drop missiles and mortars, drones with special explosives and evading missiles! With each 10.000 points you will earn a bonus city. When all cities are destroyed it is game-over “the-end”. With each advancing level your points will get a multiplier of x1, x2 or even x3. For each city that survives you will earn 100 points, and for each remaining missile 5 points each.

Categories and tags of the game : Arcade, Atari, Classic, Command, Missile, Shooting

Atari Missile Command - How to Play

Use the mouse to shoot missiles.

Defending the World from Alien Invasion: The Timeless Classic of Atari Missile Command

Imagine a world on the brink of destruction, with hordes of missiles hurtling towards major cities, threatening to wipe out humanity’s greatest achievements. This apocalyptic scenario was the premise behind Atari’s 1980 arcade classic, Missile Command. Developed by Dave Theurer, Missile Command was a groundbreaking game that captivated players with its addictive gameplay, simple yet intuitive controls, and a sense of urgency that kept players on the edge of their seats.

Gameplay Mechanics and Features

Missile Command’s core gameplay revolves around defending six major cities from incoming missiles, which are launched by three enemy bases: Moscow, Peking, and Cairo. Players control three defense silos, each with a limited number of missiles that can be launched to intercept incoming threats. The game’s simplicity belies its depth, as players must strategically manage their silos, anticipating the trajectory of incoming missiles and prioritizing the most critical targets. The game features three difficulty levels, each with increasing enemy aggression and decreasing silo replenishment rates.

Graphics, Sound, and Presentation

Missile Command’s presentation was a significant departure from the simplistic graphics of earlier arcade games. The game features colorful, hand-drawn graphics, with each city represented by a unique landscape, from the bustling streets of Moscow to the tranquil gardens of Peking. The sound design is equally impressive, with a haunting soundtrack and realistic sound effects that immerse players in the game’s tense atmosphere.

Strategies, Facts, and Community Aspects

Missile Command’s simplicity and addictiveness have made it a beloved classic among gamers. One of the game’s most interesting facts is that it was originally designed to be a training tool for the US military, teaching players how to defend against incoming missiles. Players can employ various strategies to succeed, including prioritizing high-priority targets, using silo replenishment to their advantage, and adapting to the game’s increasing difficulty levels. The game’s enduring popularity has also led to numerous sequels, remakes, and spin-offs, cementing its place in gaming history.

Conclusion

Missile Command’s innovative gameplay, captivating graphics, and immersive sound design have made it a timeless classic that continues to captivate gamers to this day. As a pioneering title in the defense genre, it has inspired countless imitators and has left an indelible mark on the world of gaming. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or simply looking for a challenging and addictive experience, Missile Command is a must-play that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.