Argus Longplay (Arcade Game) - Warning: Contains Flashing Lights!
0- Argus Longplay (Arcade Game) -
In the midst of a mix of memorable and forgettable games, the absence of Gottlieb's release of Argus remains a puzzling omission for me. This shooting game, while average, exudes a cool vibe that, with a bit of refinement, could have achieved some success, in my humble opinion. The premise is familiar: step into the shoes of the superhero Argus, utilizing energy bolts to thwart villains and eliminate threats to Earth's inhabitants.
What sets Argus apart and renders it enjoyable is the transition from seemingly relaxed early rounds to intense chaos starting from stage 3. Enemies and threats emerge from every direction, adding a layer of unpredictability. Despite the mayhem, players can strategically plan their moves to shoot down foes and safeguard citizens. I've always appreciated games where chaos follows a logical pattern, requiring thoughtful decisions rather than mindless shooting.
Mastering the game involves learning whom to shoot, when, and where, a departure from the approach of mindlessly firing in hopes of survival. While keeping every citizen alive indefinitely is impossible, preserving the majority becomes a viable strategy, with occasional citizen bonuses boosting progress chances. Argus, being invulnerable, ensures the game only concludes when the citizen count reaches zero. Otherwise, it continues endlessly, with stage repetition starting from the 17th.
This prototype underscores the idea that creating technically advanced or groundbreaking games with elaborate concepts isn't a prerequisite for enjoyable gaming experiences. Speculating on why Gottlieb chose not to publish this title is intriguing, but it remains regrettable that a likable superhero like Argus never had the chance to see the light of day.
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