Blue Lightning (1989-)

• Developer: Epyx

• Publisher: Atari

• Genre: Air Combat

Blue Lightning is a combat flight simulation game developed by Epyx and released in 1989 for the Atari Lynx. It was one of the launch titles for the system, showcasing the Lynx's capabilities with its pseudo-3D graphics and fast-paced gameplay. The game was also released in Japan, where it was distributed by Mumin Corporation. In 1995, a remake of the game was developed by Attention to Detail for the Atari Jaguar CD, featuring updated graphics and gameplay elements. This remake was one of the pack-in games for the Jaguar CD peripheral when it launched.

In Blue Lightning, players assume the role of a rookie pilot in the Blue Lightning squadron, tasked with completing a series of missions to thwart an enemy threat. The game is played from a third-person perspective, similar to Sega's After Burner, where the player controls a fighter jet and engages in aerial combat against enemy aircraft and ground targets. The missions vary in objectives, including dogfights, escort duties, and destruction of enemy installations. Players must navigate through different environments and face increasingly difficult challenges as they progress through the game.

The inspiration for Blue Lightning came from the desire to create a pseudo-3D combat flight game for the Atari Lynx. The development team, led by Stephen Landrum and graphic artist Arthur Koch, aimed to capture the excitement of arcade flight simulators while adapting them to the handheld platform. The game makes extensive use of the Lynx's hardware capabilities, such as sprite scaling and rotation, to create the illusion of depth and movement. The soundtrack, composed by Alex Rudis and Robert Vieira, complements the high-energy gameplay with dynamic music that intensifies during combat sequences.

Upon its release, Blue Lightning received positive reviews for its impressive graphics and engaging gameplay. Critics praised the game for pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a handheld console and for delivering an arcade-quality experience. However, some reviewers noted that the missions could become repetitive over time. Despite these criticisms, Blue Lightning remains a standout title in the Atari Lynx library and is remembered fondly by fans of the system.

Images from MobyGames