If you’re a seasoned Vectrex fan, you’re likely familiar with Bedlam, one of the console’s most popular games. But do you know the full story behind the game’s development, impact on the gaming industry, and continued popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts?
Bedlam on Vectrex: An Overview
Contents
Bedlam, released in 1983, is a top-down shooter game that pits players against an endless wave of enemy ships. The game features a unique control scheme, using the Vectrex’s built-in joystick and overlay buttons to move and shoot. Compared to other similar games of the era, Bedlam’s graphics and sound effects were considered cutting edge.
Upon release, Bedlam received positive reviews from critics and players alike. Its fast-paced gameplay and challenging difficulty level were praised, and the game quickly became one of the Vectrex’s most popular titles.
The Development of Bedlam on Vectrex
Bedlam was developed by John Halliday and published by Tigervision. Halliday, a veteran game developer, worked on the game alone in his spare time while also working at a software company.
The development process was not without its challenges. Because the Vectrex was a relatively new console with limited hardware capabilities, Halliday had to be creative in how he programmed the game. He also had to work with the Vectrex’s unique screen overlay system to create the game’s graphics.
Despite these obstacles, Halliday was able to create a game that pushed the limits of what the Vectrex was capable of. Bedlam’s graphics and sound effects were considered some of the best on the console, and the game’s unique control scheme added to its appeal.
The Legacy of Bedlam on Vectrex
Bedlam’s impact on the gaming industry at the time cannot be understated. The game helped establish the Vectrex as a serious contender in the video game console market, and its success paved the way for future titles on the system.
Bedlam also had a significant influence on future games. The top-down shooter genre became popular in the years following Bedlam’s release, and many games that followed borrowed heavily from its gameplay mechanics.
Even today, Bedlam remains one of the most popular Vectrex games among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its challenging gameplay and unique control scheme make it a favorite among collectors and fans of the console.
Bedlam on Vectrex Today
For those looking to experience Bedlam for themselves, there are a few options available. The game is available for purchase on the Vectrex multi-cart, a cartridge that contains multiple Vectrex games on a single cartridge. It can also be played using Vectrex emulators, which allow players to run the game on modern hardware.
For collectors, Bedlam remains a highly sought-after game. In its original packaging, the game can fetch a high price on the collector’s market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bedlam on Vectrex is a game that holds a special place in the hearts of retro gaming enthusiasts. Its impact on the gaming industry and the Vectrex console itself cannot be overstated, and its continued popularity today is a testament to its quality. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the game or discovering it for the first time, Bedlam on Vectrex is a classic that is sure to stand the test of time.
FAQs
Who developed Bedlam on Vectrex?
Bedlam was developed by John Halliday, a game developer who worked on the game alone in his spare time while also working at a software company.
What is the gameplay like in Bedlam on Vectrex?
Bedlam is a top-down shooter game where players control a ship and must shoot down waves of enemy ships. The game features a unique control scheme that uses the Vectrex’s built-in joystick and overlay buttons.
What was the critical response to Bedlam on Vectrex?
Upon release, Bedlam received positive reviews from critics and players alike. Its fast-paced gameplay and challenging difficulty level were praised, and the game quickly became one of the Vectrex’s most popular titles.
What was the impact of Bedlam on the gaming industry?
Bedlam helped establish the Vectrex as a serious contender in the video game console market, and its success paved the way for future titles on the system. The game also had a significant influence on future games, with many borrowing heavily from its gameplay mechanics.
Can Bedlam on Vectrex be played today?
Yes, Bedlam is still available to play today. It can be purchased on the Vectrex multi-cart or played using Vectrex emulators.
What is the collector’s market like for Bedlam on Vectrex?
In its original packaging, Bedlam can fetch a high price on the collector’s market. It remains a highly sought-after game for Vectrex collectors.