Overview
Dodge ‘Em is a classic arcade-style video game developed by Atari, Inc. and released in 1980 for the Atari 2600 console. The game is set on a single-screen maze that mimics a four-lane racetrack. As the player, you control a car, and your objective is to collect all the dots while avoiding collisions with another autonomous car racing around the track.
Gameplay
The game mechanics are simple yet challenging. You must skillfully navigate your car, advancing in the game by consuming all the dots present in the maze. The twist, however, comes with the presence of an opponent car driven by the CPU. The opponent is determined to crash into you, adding an element of intensity and reflex-driven gameplay.
Significance and Influence
Dodge ‘Em is one of the numerous titles from the golden age of video gaming that contributed to the popularity of the Atari 2600 system. Its simplicity and captivating gameplay illustrate the arcade-inspired designs of the time. It’s a notable example of how early video games provided entertainment through straightforward, yet challenging mechanics, paving the way for future innovations in maze and chase game designs.
Trivia
- The game was inspired by other maze chase games of the era and shares similarities with titles such as Pac-Man, though with a unique ‘dodge and chase’ twist.
- Due to its simple but addictive gameplay, the game remains a nostalgic piece for those who grew up during the early 80s, often included in retro gaming collections today.
