Old Games

Asteroids (USA)

Asteroids (USA) for Atari 7800 delivers retro arcade action piloting a spaceship through asteroid fields and enemy saucers. High-speed vector graphics space shooter with timeless gameplay. Must-play Atari 7800 classic.

What is Asteroids (USA)?

Asteroids (USA) is a classic arcade-style shooter game originally released for the Atari 7800 system. Players control a single spaceship navigating through an asteroid field, tasked with destroying waves of asteroids and enemy UFOs while avoiding collisions. The game emphasizes fast reflexes, strategic movement, and precision shooting, set against a backdrop of iconic vector-based graphics. As players progress, the difficulty escalates with faster asteroids and more aggressive enemies, making it a timeless test of skill.

Game Features

Vector-based graphics that create a distinctive, space-themed visual style
Progressive difficulty with increasingly challenging asteroid patterns and enemy encounters
Power-ups and bonuses like smart bombs to clear the screen in intense moments
High-score tracking to encourage replayability and competitive play
Tight, responsive controls optimized for arcade-style action

How to Play Asteroids (USA)?

  1. Movement: Use the arrow keys or WASD to rotate and thrust the spaceship.
  2. Fire: Press Ctrl (default) or Z/X keys (A/B buttons) to shoot projectiles.
  3. Hyperspace: Activate Shift or Spacebar to teleport the ship, avoiding imminent collisions (use sparingly, as it risks reappearing in dangerous positions).
  4. Destroy asteroids: Break large asteroids into smaller ones, which split into even tinier fragments. Avoid collisions with all objects.
  5. Defeat UFOs: Shoot saucer-shaped enemies that appear periodically, aiming for higher points.
  6. Survive waves: Clear each level by eliminating all asteroids and UFOs, then prepare for increased difficulty in subsequent rounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Asteroids (USA)?
The goal is to destroy all asteroids and UFOs onscreen while avoiding collisions to achieve the highest score possible.

How do I control the spaceship?
Use arrow keys/WASD for movement, Ctrl/Z/X to fire, and Shift/Spacebar for hyperspace.

How does scoring work?
Points are awarded for destroying asteroids (larger ones yield more points) and defeating UFOs. Smaller, faster UFOs grant higher rewards than larger ones.

What are the best strategies for advanced play?
Prioritize destroying small asteroids first, use hyperspace strategically, and position your ship near the screen’s edges to dodge incoming threats.