description Missile Command Overview
Missile Command is a classic arcade strategy video game where players defend six U.S. cities from incoming Soviet missiles. Designed by Dave Theurer, it utilizes a trackball to direct defensive missile launchers. Originally created by Atari, the game’s challenging gameplay makes it suitable for individuals interested in single-player tower defense and 1980s retro gaming.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
info Missile Command Specifications
| Country | United States |
| Year | 1980 |
help Missile Command FAQ
How do the controls in Missile Command work?
The arcade cabinet uses a trackball to move a cursor and buttons to fire from three missile bases. Players defend six cities from incoming missiles, planes, and other threats.
Who designed Missile Command?
Missile Command was designed by Dave Theurer at Atari. Theurer also worked on Tempest, another classic Atari arcade game known for fast, abstract action.
Why is Missile Command associated with Cold War anxiety?
The game asks players to defend cities from endless missile attacks, a premise that strongly echoes nuclear-war fears from the late 1970s and early 1980s. It does not offer a final victory, because the attacks keep escalating until the cities are destroyed.
What made the original Missile Command arcade version different from home ports?
The trackball is a major part of the arcade feel, because it lets players snap the cursor quickly across the screen. Many home versions used joysticks or controllers, which changed the speed and precision of play.
explore Explore More
Similar to Missile Command
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
