Genre: Shoot ’em up
Developer: Eclipse Software
Publisher: Eclipse Software
Year: 1988
System: Atari ST
Atax is a horizontally scrolling shoot ’em up developed and published by Eclipse Software for the Atari ST in 1988. The player assumes the role of a rebel leader piloting a small attack craft known as the Atax, with the mission to overthrow a repressive government regime.
The gameplay involves flying at high speed over hostile planetary surfaces while avoiding contact with terrain, which is lethal to the craft. The Atax can skim close to the ground but must maneuver precisely to survive. Players use rapid reflexes and firing accuracy to eliminate threats while navigating tight passages and environmental hazards.
The game consists of six levels, each with unique terrain themes that affect the gameplay. The levels include Ice, Jungle, Doric, Circuit, Curves, and Blobs, each presenting new challenges in obstacle placement and movement space. Contact with the environment or enemy projectiles results in the loss of a craft, and players must progress through all stages to reach the final conflict.
