Genre: Light-gun shooter
Publisher: Atari Corporation
Year: 1987
System: Atari 8-bit
Description:
Barnyard Blaster is a light-gun shooting game released by Atari Corporation in 1987 for the Atari 8-bit family (via cartridge) and Atari 7800. The title supports the Atari XG‑1 light gun as well as joystick input. Players use the gun to clear vermin—such as rodents and birds—from a farm setting across three primary areas: the barnyard, cornfield, and barn. Each level requires achieving a minimum accuracy percentage to advance. Upon completion of each level, players enter “Gramp’s bonus screen,” where bottles are tossed into the air for additional point-scoring opportunities. A fourth optional bonus stage rewards players who maintain high accuracy. Shots are limited to 40 per area, introducing a strategic element. Players receive a performance ranking—from “Total Dud” up to “Blaster”—based on accuracy and progression .
