Joust (USA)

What is Joust (USA)?

Joust (USA) is a classic arcade action game developed for the Atari 7800 platform. Released in the 1980s, it challenges players to take on the role of a knight riding a flying ostrich, battling enemies in mid-air arenas. The game emphasizes skillful maneuvering, strategic combat, and progressive difficulty, making it a staple of retro gaming. Players must defeat waves of enemy knights while avoiding hazards and mastering physics-based movement mechanics.

Game Features

• Dynamic two-player co-op gameplay for team-based challenges
• Physics-driven movement with flapping mechanics and gravity effects
• Diverse enemy types with unique behaviors and attack patterns
• Progressive difficulty across increasingly complex levels
• Arcade-style controls optimized for fast-paced action (A/B buttons, directional inputs)
• Retro pixel art and chiptune audio design capturing the 80s arcade vibe

How to Play Joust (USA)?

1. Movement: Use the arrow keys or WASD to control your knight’s direction.
2. Flapping: Hold the Z key (A button) to flap your ostrich’s wings and ascend. Release to descend.
3. Jumping: Press the Spacebar to perform a quick jump, useful for dodging attacks.
4. Combat: Collide with enemies while positioned higher than them to defeat them. Avoid collisions when lower, as this damages your knight.
5. Two-Player Mode: Player 2 uses a second controller (arrow keys/WASD for movement, X key for flapping) to join the action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Joust (USA)?
The goal is to defeat waves of enemy knights by colliding with them while flying higher than they are. Survive hazards and progress through levels to achieve a high score.

How do I control my knight’s movement?
Use arrow keys/WASD for directional control and Z/X keys (A/B buttons) to flap. The Spacebar triggers a quick jump for evasion.

Can I play Joust (USA) with a friend?
Yes! The game supports two-player cooperative play, with Player 2 using a separate controller for simultaneous action.