Overview
Atlantis resurfaces as a modern remake of a classic Atari title, delivering straightforward underwater defense action that splits its small player base. While some appreciate its faithful recreation of vintage arcade mechanics, others find the experience too barebones to recommend. This minimalist wave-defense game captures the essence of early gaming simplicity but struggles to justify its existence beyond nostalgic curiosity.
Vintage Simplicity, Modern Execution
Atlantis preserves the core gameplay that defined the original 1982 release with remarkable fidelity. Players defend the titular underwater city using two anti-aircraft guns mounted on its flanks, each controlled separately by mouse buttons. The left button fires the port cannon while the right handles starboard defenses, creating an intuitive but demanding dual-control scheme. When overwhelmed, players can deploy a flying saucer via spacebar for temporary aerial support. This elegant control system maintains the original's accessibility while functioning flawlessly in its new incarnation.
This is a good remake of an old Atari game. You defend the underwater city of Atlantis for as long as you can.
Zero
Enemy forces approach in increasingly aggressive waves from both screen edges, descending lower with each successful pass over the city. The gradual descent mechanic creates palpable tension as invaders methodically work their way toward destruction. Survival depends on mastering target prioritization and efficient gun coordination, with the difficulty curve delivering satisfying escalation. The longer players endure, the more overwhelming the onslaught becomes, creating that quintessential "just one more try" arcade appeal.
Content Constraints and Divided Reception
Where Atlantis stumbles is in its lack of substantive content beyond the core loop. The absence of progression systems, unlockables, or varied enemy behaviors leaves the experience feeling notably sparse by contemporary standards. While the retro purity resonates with some, others find the minimalism crosses into tedium during extended sessions. The visual presentation, while clean and functional, does little to enhance the underwater setting beyond basic color schemes and geometric shapes.
It's very cool for an underwater game! Fantastic!
Eric Gerald
This content limitation fuels the polarized reception. Players seeking a pure, undiluted arcade challenge appreciate the focused intensity, while others lament the missed opportunity to expand upon the original concept. The complete absence of multiplayer or alternate modes further restricts Atlantis' appeal, making it primarily worthwhile for retro enthusiasts or those seeking quick gameplay bursts rather than deep engagement.
Verdict
"Faithful but barebones retro arcade remake"
