Missile Command: Recharged

WARNING! This is NOT the 2020 Nickervision Missile Command:Recarged. As a longtime fan of Missile Command, I've played many many many iterations of the game. From all the way back in 1980 to the original arcade and ATARI 2600 versions, to various ports on Nintendo, to the resurrection of the original arcade variant via MAME and Microsoft:Arcade, to the 2020 Nickervision/ATARI "Recharged" version. Some of these have been better than others. This is not one of the better imaginations of this game. This version has virtually none of the visual style or feel of the original. It's more like... "Bullet Command" with Dr. Strange's weird ring portals for explosions. Gameplay-wise, I just couldn't get into it. To be honest, from what I remember, the 2020 Nickervision version was better. It had better music, effects, gameplay, etc. No idea why ATARI did away with the 2020 version but this is definitely not an upgrade.

1 mario party quality minigame its fun but for a short amount of time don't think its worth 10$ + local co-op endless clicking at max speed to stay alive is giving me carpel tunnel i think its safe to say i will never play this game again almost nothing here

Not only isn't this the first time the Missile Command formula has been updated (like 1995's "Missile Command 3D" on Jaguar, and 1999's "Missile Command" on Windows/PS1), this isn't even the first Missile Command Recharged game. The first Missile Command Recharged came out in 2020, and as the developer explains it (if I remember correctly) that was more of a quick trial balloon sort of effort before there was a full commitment to an Atari recharged series. So this 2022 offering differs from that now delisted 2020 game in that the graphics in general are a little fancier and this one has graphical backgrounds, which kind of emulate the look on the original Missile Command screen. This game also has a mission mode along with the arcade mode in which you need to pass 36 different scenarios of varying difficulty. Some of them just have the fast missiles in them, some are filled with different ship types, and so on. It gets tough. And plays much better with a mouse. Leaderboards, achievements, lots of modes -- a nice reiteration of a classic and well worth the $5 it often goes on sale for. 8/10

Like many others interested in this title, I came with a sense of nostalgia for vintage gaming. Unfortunately, this version of Missile Command doesn’t closely capture the spirit of the original 80s classic. The gameplay feels repetitive and lacks depth, which makes it easy to lose interest. While it’s not a particularly expensive game, the value isn’t the main issue here—fans expect more from Atari, and this title falls short of delivering that nostalgic experience.

Really fun little game for a few hours play. Final boss is quite challenging. Good achievements. Very well programmed remake of Missile Command

Missile Command: Recharged, developed by Adamvision Studios, SneakyBox, and Atari is a great example of how to revisit a class arcade game, and honestly this is the second revisit in about 2 years, and in my opinion the developer(s) were able to capture the essence that made Missile Command one of the top arcade games back in the day. I really like how the progresses on the game, I particularly like the updated graphics and the use of take-ways from the 2020 version of the remake. All in call one that I have in my arcade cabinet for a reason, I will always come back and play games that give me the feeling I felt back in the day.

Fun, and cleanly designed. It'd be nice if there were different ambiance modes for both art style and sound: arcade-like, Atari 2600-like, etc. This has an action vibe, and doesn't capture the melancholy feel of the original(s). A little fan service the the old people in the room would go a long way.

So, the new version has now come out. Was it worth it? Hmmm... maybe? If you don't have the original Recharge version, then this is the obvious choice, especially as the original isn't available any more. If you do have the original, then it probably isn't worth paying for another version - this just seems to be a money grab really, when the previous version could have just been updated. This version does have extras (as it should) - new ground and air based enemies;, graphics are more cartoonish now and it is much, much harder. Overall, it may be worth getting if you don't have the original, but only in a sale. It is fun though, and has new cooperative and mission modes

Missile Command: Recharged offers a refreshing and dynamic update to the iconic 1980 arcade game, successfully blending nostalgic gameplay with modern design elements. Developed by Adamvision Studios and SneakyBox and published by Atari, this reimagining invites players to defend their cities from relentless waves of incoming missiles, aircraft, and tanks. While the core mechanic of intercepting threats with limited counter-missiles remains true to the original, the game expands on this foundation with new features, enhanced visuals, and additional modes that elevate the experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. The gameplay in Missile Command: Recharged is fast-paced and strategic, requiring quick reflexes and careful resource management. Players must anticipate the trajectory of enemy projectiles and time their shots precisely to protect their cities. The introduction of power-ups adds an engaging layer of complexity, providing temporary advantages such as rapid-fire or explosive blasts that can turn the tide of battle. The escalating difficulty ensures that each level feels challenging yet fair, encouraging players to improve their skills and devise effective strategies. Visually, the game strikes a balance between retro charm and contemporary polish. The neon-infused graphics bring a vibrant energy to the screen, with colorful explosions and detailed cityscapes that pop against dark, starry backdrops. This aesthetic pays homage to the original’s simple vector graphics while embracing a more immersive and visually stimulating style. Complementing the visuals is an energetic soundtrack that ramps up the tension and excitement, enhancing the overall atmosphere and making every wave of attacks feel intense and urgent. A notable addition to this edition is the cooperative multiplayer mode, which allows two players to team up locally to defend their cities side by side. This cooperative element encourages communication and coordination, adding a fresh social dimension to the gameplay. Sharing the challenge not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also introduces new tactical possibilities as players combine their efforts to survive increasingly difficult waves. While the game largely succeeds in updating a classic formula, it does present some challenges, particularly in its control scheme. Some players have found aiming with a joystick or gamepad to require a steep learning curve due to the precision necessary for intercepting fast-moving targets. This can occasionally lead to moments of frustration, especially in the later, more chaotic stages. However, this aspect also contributes to the game's rewarding sense of mastery—overcoming these hurdles feels satisfying and adds to the overall appeal for players who enjoy skill-based gameplay. In summary, Missile Command: Recharged is a well-crafted homage that revitalizes an arcade legend with thoughtful enhancements and contemporary flair. Its blend of intense action, strategic depth, and cooperative play make it a compelling choice for those looking to revisit classic gaming or experience the thrill of missile defense for the first time. Though some control nuances may require practice, the game delivers a polished and engaging experience that honors its roots while offering plenty of fresh excitement. Rating: 8/10

I would only recommend this if you can get it cheap, as it's very barebones. As you can see, it only took me 4 hours to 100% complete this game.