ChopperCommando Posted June 17 Share Posted June 17 I don't know about some of these criteria. Being able to carry around an item shouldn't exclude it from being a power-up. This is a major feature in, for example, Super Mario Bros. 3. I know that's not Atari, but no one would argue those aren't power ups. The Desert Falcon hieroglyphs should definitely be considered power-ups as well. I don't know if this wikipedia article might help us do some more refining.... 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 17 Author Share Posted June 17 On 6/13/2024 at 11:31 AM, imstarryeyed said: Montezuma's Revenge - Staff / scepter allows Panama Joe to be invulnerable to snakes, skulls and spiders for a short time. Alright, @imstarryeyed, let's see how Montezum's Revenge matches up with our criteria for power ups. Shall we? I'm looking in the manual. Sounds like the amulet. Spoiler Video and screenshots Spoiler Watch this video from about 6:13 to 6:25 Panama Joe approaches the Amulet Panama Joe jumps up and touches the Amulet. It immediately disappears and Panama Joe gains special powers to walk through enemies. About 11 seconds later, the effect wears off and Panama Joe returns to normal. Yes, IMO the amulet in Montezuma's Revenge matches all of our criteria for power ups. Let's update our list now, shall we? UPDATED LIST Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you special abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. POWER UP - CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) LIST Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – The candy pieces are items that you carry around and use later. Therefore, they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Haunted House – The scepter is an item that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. Vanguard – The energy pods don't disappear after you touch them, so, no, they don't meet all of our criteria to be considered power ups. UNSURE Desert Falcon – Our criteria as currently written don't permit combinations of 3 objects. So, should we modify our criteria to permit this? Good stuff, @imstarryeyed! Thanks for that nomination. Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 17 Author Share Posted June 17 3 hours ago, ChopperCommando said: I don't know about some of these criteria. Being able to carry around an item shouldn't exclude it from being a power-up. This is a major feature in, for example, Super Mario Bros. 3. I know that's not Atari, but no one would argue those aren't power ups. The Desert Falcon hieroglyphs should definitely be considered power-ups as well. I don't know if this wikipedia article might help us do some more refining.... I think I see what you mean. In Super Mario 3, you can collect Power Ups and activate them later. Correct? Spoiler "Mini-games and bonus screens on the map provide the player a chance to obtain special power-ups and additional lives. Power-ups obtained in these mini-games are stored in a reserve, and can be activated by the player from the map screen.[8][9]" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Mario_Bros._3 This is easy to handle. We'll just start one or more new lists to handle the special circumstances. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 17 Author Share Posted June 17 On 6/13/2024 at 11:31 AM, imstarryeyed said: Mouse Trap - Bones allow you to transform into the Dog on demand for a Pac man like power up to kill the cats. Raiders of Lost Ark - Flute allows you to pass through snakes and Tsetse flies. Alright, @imstarryeyed, let's look at your next two and see how they match up with our criteria. Mouse Trap - Bones - No Because the effect is not immediate. Bones can be stored and saved for later, like the power ups in Super Mario 3. Raiders of the Lost Ark - Flute - No Because it is an item that you can carry around with you and use later. Now let's update our list. Shall we? UPDATED LIST Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you special abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. POWER UP - CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) LIST Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – The candy pieces are items that you carry around and use later. Therefore, they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Haunted House – The scepter is an item that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Mouse Trap – Bones – don't match our criteria for power ups because they can be stored for use later. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. Vanguard – The energy pods don't disappear after you touch them, so, no, they don't meet all of our criteria to be considered power ups. UNSURE Desert Falcon – Our criteria as currently written don't permit combinations of 3 objects. So, should we modify our criteria to permit this? Good stuff, @imstarryeyed! Thanks for those two nominations. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ChopperCommando Posted June 17 Share Posted June 17 23 minutes ago, Living Room Arcade said: I think I see what you mean. In Super Mario 3, you can collect Power Ups and activate them later. Correct? Yes, that is correct. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 17 Author Share Posted June 17 New List B - Power Ups that can be stored and used later UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you special abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, CANNOT BE STORED Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER LIST B SPECIAL CRITERIA These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. LIST B Desert Falcon – multiple power ups E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces Mouse Trap – Bones NOT POWER UPS Adventure -The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. Vanguard – The energy pods don't disappear after you touch them, so, no, they don't meet all of our criteria to be considered power ups. UNSURE What do you guys think of our new Lists A and B? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 18 Author Share Posted June 18 On 6/13/2024 at 11:31 AM, imstarryeyed said: Not Power Up =-=-=-=-= Tapper - Picks up tips to distract some clients to buy him time. (Tool) Adventure - Sword (Weapon) Pooyan - Meat (Weapon) Alright, @imstarryeyed, let's see if we can verify your non-power up choices. Shall we? Tapper - Tips - N/A Spoiler "There are only cowboys and sports fans. There is no money." (Link) This question is moot, since the Atari 2600 version of Tapper doesn't have money in it. Adventure - Sword (Weapon) - No It is an item that you carry around with you, so it isn't a power up. Pooyan - Meat (Weapon) - No The bait is an item that you can throw, so it isn't a power up. Let's update our lists, shall we? UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, CANNOT BE STORED Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER LIST B SPECIAL CRITERIA These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. LIST B Desert Falcon – multiple power ups E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces Mouse Trap – Bones NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an item that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. Vanguard – The energy pods don't disappear after you touch them, so, no, they don't meet all of our criteria to be considered power ups. UNSURE Good stuff, @imstarryeyed! Thanks for that nomination. Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
else Posted June 18 Share Posted June 18 (edited) Great list @Living Room Arcade! When I think more about it, I'm kind of surprised any games outside of Pac-Man have power-ups. I tend to associate power-up with the NES era... Edit: I still would argue that Vanguard has power-ups. It may not disappear, but you do have to go and collect it. But I understand your reasoning also.... Edited June 18 by else 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 18 Author Share Posted June 18 @else Glad you like the lists! About Vanguard, I think the consensus is that Vanguard has power ups, so I created List C, power ups that don't disappear when you touch them. That will include Vanguard. Thank you for your comment! E.T. - candy pieces - No Guys, I don't think that the candy pieces in E.T. are power ups. Our criteria say that power ups give your avatar in the game "exceptional abilities or powers." In E.T., the candy pieces just give E.T. some energy. I also created List D - power ups that last until you lose a life. The example is the double shot power up in Gyruss. UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect will continue until you die. The example is double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an item that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AlwaysOnPlanetPatrol Posted June 18 Share Posted June 18 (edited) What about Sprint Master? There are the strips on the track that give you extra traction or speed for a few moments? It would fulfil the four criteria even though they are fixed objects. Edited June 18 by AlwaysOnPlanetPatrol 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 18 Author Share Posted June 18 10 hours ago, AlwaysOnPlanetPatrol said: What about Sprint Master? There are the strips on the track that give you extra traction or speed for a few moments? It would fulfil the four criteria even though they are fixed objects. Alright, @AlwaysOnPlanetPatrol, let's see how Sprint Master compares to our power up criteria. Shall we? The game manual says Spoiler Sprint Master - Yes I would say definitely, yes, the blue and red boxes in Sprint Master meet all of our criteria for power ups in List A. Let's update the lists, shall we? UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an item that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE Good stuff, @AlwaysOnPlanetPatrol! Thanks for that nomination. Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raiu Posted June 20 Share Posted June 20 On 6/18/2024 at 2:08 AM, Living Room Arcade said: Pooyan - Meat (Weapon) - No The bait is an item that you can throw, so it isn't a power up. I think it should still qualify. It disappears when you touch it, adding its power to yours, and it gives you an ability you didn't have before (your next shot passes through multiple enemies and defeats them immediately). if a temporarily-upgraded weapon is not a power-up, than what is? ... really, I think you've made the definition of a power-up way too narrow if the Energy Tanks in Vanguard, an item you collect that gives you temporary invulnerability and refills you fuel supply, don't count. (Incidentally, in the arcade, they *do* disappear when you touch them, or at least empty out, with the glowing area in the middle transferring to your ship) 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 20 Share Posted June 20 We should add Off The Wall to the list. The power-ups can be caught (like in Arkanoid) during gameplay. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 20 Author Share Posted June 20 14 hours ago, Raiu said: ... really, I think you've made the definition of a power-up way too narrow if the Energy Tanks in Vanguard, an item you collect that gives you temporary invulnerability and refills you fuel supply, don't count. (Incidentally, in the arcade, they *do* disappear when you touch them, or at least empty out, with the glowing area in the middle transferring to your ship) @Raiu, That issue was already addressed three posts above yours. Vanguard is now in List C. Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an item that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE 14 hours ago, Raiu said: I think it should still qualify. It disappears when you touch it, adding its power to yours, and it gives you an ability you didn't have before (your next shot passes through multiple enemies and defeats them immediately). if a temporarily-upgraded weapon is not a power-up, than what is? @Raiu That's good discussion about Pooyan. To be fair, you can't clearly see what's happening in the Atari 2600 version, but I think in the arcade version we can clearly see exactly what is happening with the bait/meaty bone and the arrows. Let's look for a moment at the arcade version of Pooyan, shall we? Spoiler Watch the video from about 1:26 to about 2:10 We see that Mama's usual weapon is shooting arrows. Periodically, the bait (a meaty bone) appears above Mama. When Mama touches the bait/meaty bone, it does not disappear. I think we can clearly see half of the bait/meaty bone is visible on the left side of Mama's body. Mama throws the bait/meaty bone at the wolves. As soon as Mama throws the bait/meaty bone, immediately another arrow appears, ready to be shot. Pooyan - bait/meaty bone - No The bait/meaty bone does not match our criteria for power ups because it is like the knives and oil drums in Double Dragon. It is a weapon that you throw. Did that answer satisfy you, @Raiu? Guys, what do you think? Is the bait/meaty bone in Pooyan a power up? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 20 Author Share Posted June 20 4 hours ago, Propane13 said: We should add Off The Wall to the list. The power-ups can be caught (like in Arkanoid) during gameplay. Alright, @Propane13, let's check out how Off The Wall matches our criteria for power ups, shall we? A quick look at the game manual and a quick play and I think I totally agree with you. The objects in question fall. You catch them. They disappear. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time (until the Token Timer runs out). Looks like a match to me! I'd say those objects are power ups! Let's place Off The Wall on List A, shall we? UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Off the Wall – multiple power ups Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE Good stuff, @Propane13! Thanks for that nomination. Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 21 Share Posted June 21 Have we added Spy Hunter to the list yet? Pulling into the semi trailer gives you special abilities. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 21 Share Posted June 21 Other games worth exploring: - Front Line (you can get in tanks) - Fatal Run - Commando? In the 7800 version, there is a Machine Gun power up and a knife power up. Not sure if those are in the 2600 version. - Fall Down (homebrew) - Pressure Gauge 2 (unfinished homebrew) - Dark Chambers? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 21 Author Share Posted June 21 On 6/20/2024 at 11:12 PM, Propane13 said: Have we added Spy Hunter to the list yet? Pulling into the semi trailer gives you special abilities. Alright, @Propane13! Let's see how Spy Hunter matches up with our power up criteria, shall we? Spy Hunter - No I would say no. I see no object in this game that meets all of our criteria for power ups. The oil slick sprayer, missile launcher, machine gun, and smoke screen sprayer are all weapons, not power ups. The weapons van is not a power up. It gives you weapons, not exceptional abilities. Let's update our lists, shall we? UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives you exceptional abilities or powers, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives exceptional abilities or powers. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Off the Wall – multiple power ups Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Spy Hunter – No, because the oil slick sprayer, missile launcher, machine gun and smoke screen sprayer are all weapons, not power ups. The weapons van doesn't give you "exceptional abilities or powers." It gives you weapons. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE Good stuff, @Propane13! Thanks for that nomination. Guys, what other Atari 2600 games with POWER UPS have you spotted? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Karl G Posted June 23 Share Posted June 23 Space Game makes heavy use of power-ups. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 23 Share Posted June 23 On 6/20/2024 at 11:34 PM, Propane13 said: Other games worth exploring: - Front Line (you can get in tanks) - Fatal Run - Commando? In the 7800 version, there is a Machine Gun power up and a knife power up. Not sure if those are in the 2600 version. - Fall Down (homebrew) - Pressure Gauge 2 (unfinished homebrew) - Dark Chambers? Okay, so if we don't count weapons upgrades as power-ups, Front Line and Ikari Warriors are off the list. Fatal Run appears to have fuel and bullets only; those don't count as Power Ups by the definition in this Thread. Fall Down and Pressure Gauge 2 are definitely valid though! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 23 Share Posted June 23 Also, forget Dark Chambers. It has health/keys/bombs, which would not count. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 23 Share Posted June 23 * Jr. Pac-Man needs to be added to the list. * What about the Necklace and the Sceptre in Riddle of the Sphinx? Probably falls in the same category as Raiders. * Sentinel has weapon upgrades, but also a "movement" power up that can be applied. * It could be argued that holding onto the truck in Skateboardin' gives you a super-speed powerup. * Survival Island - there are items you can get in this game such as a Compass and a Lantern; these make the game easier to play. I haven't played enough to know if any of the long list of items could be considered a power-up; maybe others have more experience. * Sword of Saros - the Lamp makes the entire maze visible; the ring grants invisibility; there may be others. Again, I haven't played this one enough; I believe the items are single-use, but someone else would likely know better. * Do any of the treasuers in Tutankham have any power-up abilities? I don't remember. * Wing War allows for the creation of a "Super Crystal", which "increases the range of fireballs, giving the Dragon greater power against its enemies." That's about all I can find! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 24 Author Share Posted June 24 Good work, @Propane13! Let's add Jr. Pac-Pan to List A right now. The power pellets. Also, I added all of your other suggestions to our TO BE FILED list. We'll get to them by and by. Hello, @Karl G! Yes, Space Game, definitely! Multiple power ups. Added to List A. @Propane13, Thank you for pointing out the glaring omission of weapons upgrades in our definition and criteria for power ups. Of course, weapons upgrades can be given by power ups! Here is a general rule of thumb that I have come up with to help us clarify the sometimes subtle-yet-important difference between power ups and weapons. I hope that it is helpful. Rule of Thumb: "Power ups can upgrade your weapons, but a weapon is not a power up." Spoiler A power up can upgrade your weapons... In the homebrew 1942, if you shoot the word "POW," you will get a weapons upgrade, wider shots. Spoiler Normal Shots POW power up Wider Shots ...but a weapon is not a power up. In Double Dragon, if you see a knife on the ground, you can pick it up and start throwing it at your enemies. IMO the knife is not a power up, it is a weapon. Spoiler The enemy (left) has a knife You (right) disarm the enemy with an elbow attack The knife is loose on the ground You (right) pick up the knife. You (right) throw the knife at the enemy. Watch the video clip from 4:56 to 5:01. ~~~ IMO a power up is like a symbol. It means, "Touch me and you will get special abilities or a weapons upgrade." But a power up is not something useful in and of itself. The context matters and it can sometimes be a bit subtle. Are you touching a symbol that represents a weapons upgrade? Or did you find a weapon laying around that you can pick up and start firing? In general, if you see something in a video game and if you can pick it up and start using it then it wasn't a power up. It was an item of some kind. Let's also add "weapons upgrades" to our general definition of and our general criteria for power ups. UPDATED LIST Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives your avatar special abilities or weapons upgrades, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives special abilities or weapons upgrades. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Jr. Pac-Man – power pellets Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Off the Wall – multiple power ups Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Space Game – multiple power ups Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Spy Hunter – No, because the oil slick sprayer, missile launcher, machine gun and smoke screen sprayer are weapons, not power ups. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE TO BE FILED Front Line (you can get in tanks) (Propane13) Fatal Run – Fatal Run appears to have fuel and bullets only; those don't count as Power Ups by the definition in this Thread. (Propane13) Commando? In the 7800 version, there is a Machine Gun power up and a knife power up. Not sure if those are in the 2600 version. (Propane13) Fall Down (homebrew) definitely valid (Propane13) Pressure Gauge 2 (unfinished homebrew) definitely valid (Propane13) Dark Chambers? forget Dark Chambers. It has health/keys/bombs, which would not count. (Propane13) * What about the Necklace and the Sceptre in Riddle of the Sphinx? Probably falls in the same category as Raiders. (Propane13) Sentinel has weapon upgrades, but also a "movement" power up that can be applied. (Propane13) It could be argued that holding onto the truck in Skateboardin' gives you a super-speed powerup. (Propane13) Survival Island - there are items you can get in this game such as a Compass and a Lantern; these make the game easier to play. I haven't played enough to know if any of the long list of items could be considered a power-up; maybe others have more experience. (Propane13) Sword of Saros - the Lamp makes the entire maze visible; the ring grants invisibility; there may be others. Again, I haven't played this one enough; I believe the items are single-use, but someone else would likely know better. (Propane13) Do any of the treasuers in Tutankham have any power-up abilities? I don't remember. (Propane13) Wing War allows for the creation of a "Super Crystal", which "increases the range of fireballs, giving the Dragon greater power against its enemies." (Propane13) Discussion? Post your comments below! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Living Room Arcade Posted June 26 Author Share Posted June 26 On 6/22/2024 at 11:14 PM, Propane13 said: Fall Down and Pressure Gauge 2 are definitely valid though! Alright, @Propane13, let's have a look at Fall Down, then. Shall we? Spoiler fd_readme.txt (Download, Thread) "The Power-up System =================== Occasionally you can collect power-ups, which are then displayed under your score. Pressing fire will use all the power-ups you've collected, but the effects vary based on how many you have: 1 gives a short speed boost. 2 digs a hole in the platform beneath you. 3 gives a long speed boost. 4 swaps places with the other player in 2-player mode, or teleports to the bottom of the screen in 1-player mode." A quick play and I think I quite agree! Since you hold onto your power ups until you press the button to use them, let's put Fall Down on List B. Shall we? UPDATED LISTS Spoiler ATARI 2600 GAMES WITH POWER UPS POWER UP - GENERAL DEFINITION It is something that you collect in-game during the action that gives your avatar special abilities or weapons upgrades, usually for a limited time. Usually they are used immediately, but sometimes they are stored for later use. POWER UP - GENERAL CRITERIA In the game, there is an object you can see called a power up. A power up cannot be a living thing such as a person. During the action of the game, you must "collect" the power up, usually by touching it or shooting it. Upon collecting the power up, the power up item disappears and your avatar in the game receives special abilities or weapons upgrades. All of this happens immediately. Usually, the effect of the power up lasts for a limited time. Upon wearing off, your avatar in the game is restored to its normal abilities and powers. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power-up https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Item_(game_terminology) *************************************************************************************************** LIST A – IMMEDIATE EFFECT, LASTS A SHORT TIME, CANNOT BE STORED Criteria: These power ups disappear immediately when you touch them. Their effect is immediate and lasts for a short time. They cannot be stored. Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum (homebrew) – chewing gum Jr. Pac-Man – power pellets Miner 2049er Vols. I & II – old miner possessions Montezuma's Revenge - amulet Ms. Pac-Man – power pellets Off the Wall – multiple power ups Pac-Man (all Atari 2600 versions) – power pellets Paranoid (unofficial Arkanoid homebrew) – multiple power ups Popeye – the spinach Q*bert – the green ball Space Game – multiple power ups Sprint Master – red and blue boxes Zippy the Porcupine (homebrew) – multiple power ups *************************************************************************************************** LIST B – CAN BE STORED AND USED LATER Criteria: These power ups can be stored and used later, but once used, they immediately disappear. This storage of power ups also permits combinations as in Desert Falcon. Desert Falcon – multiple power ups Fall Down – function of power ups depends on how many you have. Mouse Trap – Bones *************************************************************************************************** LIST C - THE POWER UP ITEM DOES NOT DISAPPEAR WHEN YOU TOUCH IT Criteria: These power ups do not disappear when you touch them. The example is the energy pods in Vanguard. Vanguard - energy pods *************************************************************************************************** LIST D – THE EFFECT OF THE POWER UP LASTS UNTIL YOU LOSE A LIFE Criteria: The power up effect lasts until you die. The example is the double shot power in Gyruss. Gyruss – double shots *************************************************************************************************** NOT POWER UPS Adventure - The Gold Key doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item that you can carry around with you. Same with the sword. Asteroids (shields, hyperspace, flip) because you didn't have to collect an item to gain these special abilities. Double Dragon (baseball bats, knives, oil drums) these weapons don't disappear after you collect them, so, no, they don't meet our criteria for being power ups. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial – candy pieces – do not meet our criteria for power ups because they do not give E.T. any kind of "exceptional abilities or powers." They only give E.T. some energy. Haunted House – The scepter is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around, so it does not match our criteria for power ups. Journey Escape – The Mighty Manager (AKA "Kool Aid Man") and the Loyal Roadie are people, so they don't meet our criteria to be power ups. Pooyan – The bait is not a power up because it is an that you can throw. Raiders of the Lost Ark – flute – It doesn't match our criteria for power ups because it is an item (a pick up) that you can carry around with you and use later. Spy Hunter – No, because the oil slick sprayer, missile launcher, machine gun and smoke screen sprayer are weapons, not power ups. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – There is no object on the screen to collect in order to get invincibility from The Force. Therefore, The Force in this game does not meet our criteria to be a power up. UNSURE 1942 (homebrew) – the POW/wider shots power up lasts until you lose a life, yes? TO BE FILED Front Line (you can get in tanks) (Propane13) Fatal Run – Fatal Run appears to have fuel and bullets only; those don't count as Power Ups by the definition in this Thread. (Propane13) Commando? In the 7800 version, there is a Machine Gun power up and a knife power up. Not sure if those are in the 2600 version. (Propane13) Pressure Gauge 2 (unfinished homebrew) definitely valid (Propane13) Dark Chambers? forget Dark Chambers. It has health/keys/bombs, which would not count. (Propane13) * What about the Necklace and the Sceptre in Riddle of the Sphinx? Probably falls in the same category as Raiders. (Propane13) Sentinel has weapon upgrades, but also a "movement" power up that can be applied. (Propane13) It could be argued that holding onto the truck in Skateboardin' gives you a super-speed powerup. (Propane13) Survival Island - there are items you can get in this game such as a Compass and a Lantern; these make the game easier to play. I haven't played enough to know if any of the long list of items could be considered a power-up; maybe others have more experience. (Propane13) Sword of Saros - the Lamp makes the entire maze visible; the ring grants invisibility; there may be others. Again, I haven't played this one enough; I believe the items are single-use, but someone else would likely know better. (Propane13) Do any of the treasuers in Tutankham have any power-up abilities? I don't remember. (Propane13) Wing War allows for the creation of a "Super Crystal", which "increases the range of fireballs, giving the Dragon greater power against its enemies." (Propane13) Good stuff, @Propane13! And thanks once again for all of these great suggestions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+Propane13 Posted June 29 Share Posted June 29 On 6/23/2024 at 9:05 AM, Propane13 said: Also, forget Dark Chambers. It has health/keys/bombs, which would not count. I'm maybe changing my opinion here. Years ago, I made a map where I listed all objects that could be revealed: * health * points * dagger * shield * trap * exit * spawner * Spawner that becomes an exit * key * bomb * poison * lock Would a shield count as a power-up? It's not a weapon. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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