Stampede (Machine Type: Atari 2600)
Stampede is a video game developed and published by Activision for the Atari 2600 console. Released in 1981, it was designed by Bob Whitehead, one of the co-founders of Activision and a pioneer in the video game industry. The game is a classic example of the action genre for early home consoles.
In Stampede, players take on the role of a cowboy riding a horse, with the objective of rounding up stray cattle. The screen scrolls from right to left, and the player must lasso the cattle before they run off the left side of the screen. The game includes different types of cattle that move at varying speeds.
Players must avoid letting any cattle pass by; if three cattle get away, the game ends. The score increases based on the number of cattle rounded up, with a bonus for not letting any escape.
Graphics and Sound
As with many Atari 2600 games, the graphics in “Stampede” are quite simple by modern standards but effectively convey the gameplay elements. The background is a plain field, and the cattle and cowboy are represented by basic but recognizable sprites. The sound effects are minimal but functional, adding to the retro charm of the game.
Stampede is remembered fondly as one of the better titles for the Atari 2600, showcasing Activision’s commitment to quality during the early days of video gaming. The game has been included in various retro game collections and is often cited as a classic example of the fun and addictive gameplay that characterized the era.
For fans of retro gaming, Stampede remains a beloved title, reflecting the creativity and innovation of the early 1980s video game industry.
Released: December 1981
Machine Type: Atari 2600
Original System: Atari 2600
Developed by: Activision, Inc.
Published by: Activision, Inc.
Genre: Action
Sport: Horse / derby
Conceived and Designed by: Robert A. Whitehead
Japanese spelling: スタンピード
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