Tempest (1981). Play online

Summary

Tempest dazzled arcades with Atari’s Color‑QuadraScan vector display, giving the screen a crisp, neon‑bright look that still feels fresh. I loved how the claw‑shaped blaster slides along the near edge of a 3‑D tube, its movement dictated by a simple rotary dial instead of a joystick—so intuitive that clockwise turns feel natural.

The game’s “SkillStep” system let me start on a higher level after a strong run, effectively offering a continue without flashing a credit. Sixteen uniquely shaped stages—ranging from classic geometric forms to an infinity symbol—challenge you with seven enemy types, each with its own attack pattern, and a one‑time Superzapper that wipes the screen clean. After level 99 the shapes repeat in new colors, while invisible levels add a secret nightmare mode.

Tempest’s legacy lived on beyond the cabinet: ports appeared on the Atari ST, BBC Micro, ZX Spectrum and Amstrad CPC. Collectors still hunt the triangular upright, the slim cabaret version and the cocktail table that flips the screen for head‑to‑head play.