Tapper (1983). Play online

Summary

Tapper (also released as Root Beer Tapper) invites you to race across four bars with a virtual tap handle, slipping mugs to thirsty patrons while hauling back empties. The original arcade cabinets even sported real‑look Budweiser tap‑handles and brass footrests, later swapped for plastic replicas stamped with the logo; the re‑themed root‑beer version stripped the alcohol branding for a soda‑friendly spin. Hitting a tip summons a flash of dancing silhouettes that briefly distract customers, giving you a tasty window to clear the crowd. Its soundscape mixes “Oh! Susanna,” the Budweiser jingle and Offenbach’s “Galop Infernal,” all generated on a Synclärer II for that authentic ’80s buzz. Tapper has popped up everywhere—from home ports on the C64 and ColecoVision to cameos in Wreck‑It‑Ralph, competitive world‑record runs, and a mobile comeback as Tapper World Tour.

Storyline

Tapper drops you behind the bar of a bustling arcade tavern where you play as a bartender racing against thirsty customers. Each patron slides toward the exit after catching a full mug, and you must keep pouring, sliding drinks, and collecting empty mugs before their patience runs out.

The game is divided into four themed levels: a western saloon with cowboys (two screens), a sports bar filled with athletes (three screens), a punk rock joint populated by punkers (four screens), and an outer‑space lounge serving alien drinkers (four screens).

As you clear the required number of screens per level, the scenery changes and the clientele’s outfits match the new setting.

Between rounds the bartender even drinks his own brew, leading to slapstick moments like a mug stuck on his head or a stubbed toe.