Battlezone 2000 (1995-)

• Developer: Hand Made Software

• Publisher: Atari

• Genre: Shooter

Battlezone 2000 for the Atari Lynx was developed by Hand Made Software and published by Atari Corporation in 1995. This title was part of Atari's "2000" series, which aimed to bring updated versions of classic arcade games to the Lynx handheld console. The game is a modernized take on the original 1980 arcade classic Battlezone, known for its pioneering use of vector graphics and first-person tank combat. While the arcade version was released in 1980, Battlezone 2000 for the Lynx offered a new experience tailored to the capabilities of the handheld system.

In Battlezone 2000, players take on the role of a tank operator in a futuristic setting where a deadly virus has infected advanced Supertanks, turning them against humanity. The objective is to navigate through various battle zones, eliminating rogue tanks and restoring order. The game features wireframe-style graphics reminiscent of the original Battlezone, providing a retro aesthetic while utilizing the Lynx's hardware to deliver smooth scrolling and responsive controls. The gameplay focuses on strategic movement and precise targeting, requiring players to manage limited resources and make tactical decisions in real-time combat scenarios.

The game's design was influenced by the original Battlezone, which was one of the first arcade games to use a first-person perspective and vector graphics. Battlezone 2000 retains the core elements of the original, such as the wireframe visuals and tank-based combat, while introducing new features and enhancements suitable for the Lynx platform. The game supports up to four players through the Lynx's ComLynx multiplayer system, allowing for cooperative or competitive play. This multiplayer capability was a significant draw, offering a shared gaming experience that was relatively rare for handheld consoles at the time.

Regarding the soundtrack, Battlezone 2000 employs minimalistic audio design, focusing on sound effects to convey the intensity of combat. The game's audio includes sounds of tank movements, weapon fire, and explosions, contributing to an immersive atmosphere. While the game does not feature an elaborate musical score, the audio design complements the gameplay by enhancing the sense of urgency and action. Overall, Battlezone 2000 for the Atari Lynx stands out as a notable entry in the series, offering a blend of classic gameplay with modern enhancements tailored to the handheld gaming experience.

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