Arcade Snake Game: Blockade

Blockade is an arcade game by Gremlin. It was released in 1976, during a decade which saw the progenitors of many different genres. 

Some games, like Pong and Breakout, gave the subsequent genre its name. Others are given names based on a more popular game that was released later. This case is one of the latter, as the genre is known as light cycle games, which were popularized by the 1982 film Tron and the game of the same name which was released later that year.

The game is simple, and is one that most people have seen in some form before. A block moves around a playing field, growing with each move, against the opposing player who is trying to do the same.

As an early arcade game, there isn't much in terms of graphics. It is presented in a green monochrome with simple lines punctuated with two black dotted lines throughout as well as an arrow signifying the lead block. The blocks are meant to represent a row of two bricks that make up the titular blockade, as can be seen on the game's marquee. 

Like the yet-to-be released at the time Space Invaders, the game is only made up of different toned boops and beeps. Unlike that game however, there are only two notes. While Space Invaders somehow worked with four beeps, Blockade doesn't really work with half that. If the game goes on too long, the sound will become tiresome. It also includes an explosion sound effect, which does break up the monotony a bit.

Blockade is an example of a game that started a genre but is less recognized than a game released much later. Today, a light cycle game is a simple concept. However, in 1976, it was truly revolutionary. The graphics are as you would expect in a 1970s game of this genre, unfortunately, the annoying two-tone sound loops make this a game that only those interested in video game history would seek out to play.

Final Verdict:

3 out of 5