The Atari XE Video Game System (XEGS) is a home video console that was released by Atari in 1987. It is a combination of its 8-bit computer line along with a home gaming experience. It is designed to work both as a standalone console and a basic computer. It allows players to enjoy classic arcade-style games while also supporting a keyboard and software for more flexible use. It entered the market during the late ‘80s when there was high competition from Nintendo and Sega. However, the XEGS was still popular due to its mix of exciting, colourful titles that brought a classic Atari feel into the home.
Best Atari XEGS Games
The XEGS library includes a lot of genres, from action shooters to puzzle adventure and arcade games. Here are some of the best games the Atari XEGS has:
Mario Bros. (1983)
Originally released as an arcade game in 1983, it quickly became one of Nintendo’s most popular titles. In the game, players control twin brother plumbers Mario and Luigi as they clear stages of various enemy creatures like turtles and crabs by flipping them over and kicking them off platforms. It also has a multiplayer mode, which means you can play with your friend or sibling. Players get to experience this classic game outside the arcade on the Atari XEGS port. Mario Bros. remains a classic pick for any retro-gaming enthusiast.
Star Raiders II
Developed by Atari Corporation, Star Raiders II is a sequel to Star Raiders and is a space simulation and shooter video game released in 1986. In the game, players pilot a starfighter to protect the galaxy from invading the Zylon Empire. The game was developed based on the movie The Last Starfighter.
The gameplay combines space combat and strategy and players have to manage resources, engage enemy ships, and steer start systems to protect important locations from getting invaded. The game is highly engaging with tactical planning and intense space dogfights. Star Raiders II pushed the limits of Atari’s hardware capabilities and gave a more complex gaming experience than the other games on the Atari.
M.U.L.E.
Developed by Ozark Softscape, M.U.L.E. is a multiplayer strategy game where players work together and compete to build a successful colony on a new planet. In the game, each player uses a machine called M.U.L.E. (Multiple Use Labor Element) to collect important resources like energy, food, and valuable minerals. These resources help the colony to grow and survive.
Players need to decide whether they want to keep resources for themselves or trade with others. This keeps players in a dilemma as everyone wants to build the best colony yet also wants to come out on top. M.U.L.E. is easy to learn but requires planning, smart trading, and a little luck.
Donkey Kong
Developed by Nintendo and released in 1981, Donkey Kong is a classic arcade video game. In the game, players control Mario as he climbs ladders, dodges barrels, and avoids fireballs to rescue Pauline from Donkey Kong, a giant ape at the top of the screen.
The players have to reach Donkey Kong by overcoming obstacles without getting hit. The Atari version doesn’t have the same level of detail as the original arcade game, but it still has the challenging gameplay that made Donkey Kong a hit. Each level requires quick reflexes and good timing, which makes it fun and difficult.
River Raid
Developed by Activision and designed by Carol Shaw, River Raid is a classic shoot ’em-up video game released in 1982. In this game, players pilot a jet down a river and aim to destroy enemy ships, helicopters, and bridges while avoiding obstacles like riverbanks and other barriers. Players should score as many points as possible by shooting targets and surviving as long as possible.
Players must pick up fuel from certain spots along the river to keep flying. This requires some strategy as well as players need to balance shooting enemies with making sure they don’t run out of fuel. River Raid is considered one of the best Atari games and a must-try for fans of classic shooters.
Moon Patrol
Developed and released by Irem, Moon Patrol is a side-scrolling action game where players control a moon buggy on the moon’s surface, moving on rough terrain and driving off enemies. Players have to drive across the moon while dodging craters, rocks, and mines, as well as shoot down enemy ships that appear overhead. The game has two main tasks: jump over obstacles on the ground and shoot at threats in the air. The game has catchy music and colourful graphics. Moon Patrol is one of the first games to have side-scrolling arcade action.
Robotron: 2084
Published by Williams Electronics, Robotron is a fast-paced arcade shooter set in a fictional world where robots have turned against humanity. Players control the protagonist, a lone hero fighting to save the last surviving humans from huge groups of robots in a confined arena.
The game is played from a top-down perspective and players have to clear each wave of enemies while rescuing humans to earn extra points and bonuses. It has intense gameplay with enemies swarming from all directions which requires the players to shoot quickly and move strategically to survive. The game is a must-play and gives you nonstop action.
Lode Runner (1983)
Lode Rinner is a puzzle platformer developed by Doug Smith and released in 1983. In the game, players have to move through levels which are filled with treasure and enemies. Players control a little stick figure whose main objective is to collect all the gold pieces in each level while avoiding getting caught by the patrolling guards. The gameplay involves running, climbing, and digging through blocks to create paths and evade enemies. Each level requires careful planning and quick thinking, as players must strategise how to collect treasures while minimising the risk of getting caught.
Choplifter!
Choplifter is an action game developed by Dan Gorlin and released in 1982. It is a military-themed scrolling shooter game where players take on the role of a helicopter pilot who has to rescue hostages from enemy territory.
Players have to move through dangerous landscapes filled with enemy soldiers and obstacles while trying to land safely to pick up the hostages. The goal is to rescue as many hostages as possible and transport them back to safety. The game has side-scrolling gameplay, and allows players to see a wider area as they fly different levels.
Also, Read: Top 10 Best Strategy Games For PC In 2024 You Must Play
Final Thoughts
The Atari XE Video Game System is a gem for those who love retro gaming. It was actually the bridge between the early days of home computing and arcade-style gaming. It has a library filled with iconic titles that bring you the charm of the 80’s gaming scenario.
If you are looking to experience something different, these XEGS games won’t disappoint. Although it looks like a console, it is more of a computer system with a detachable keyboard. It came with other peripherals like joystick and a light gun. The XEGS gives you a nostalgic, refreshing and fun experience.
