Amidar

Amidar, a classic arcade game developed by Konami, made its debut in 1981. It is a unique combination of maze-chase and paint-fill gameplay. Players control a character moving through a grid-based maze, attempting to color the entire area while avoiding enemies. The game’s distinctive mechanics and challenging levels contributed to its popularity during the golden age of arcade gaming.

Konami, a prominent Japanese game developer, introduced Amidar in 1981, capitalizing on the maze-chase trend popularized by games like Pac-Man. The game’s development aimed to create a novel experience by combining elements of strategy and timing. Its distinctive design, featuring both linear and diagonal movements, set Amidar apart from other maze games of its time, adding to its appeal in arcades around the world.

Amidar received positive reviews for its innovative gameplay and engaging mechanics. Players appreciated the blend of strategy and action, as well as the challenging maze designs. While not as universally recognized as some of its contemporaries, Amidar found a dedicated fanbase and became a notable entry in the arcade gaming scene.

Amidar did not have direct sequels, but its influence can be seen in later games that adopted similar maze-chase mechanics. Konami explored related themes in games like “Crazy Climber” and “Lady Bug.” Amidar’s unique blend of action and strategy inspired subsequent titles within the maze and puzzle genres.

Original Amidar arcade cabinets are considered relatively rare compared to some other classics from the same era. The exact number of units produced is not widely documented, contributing to their scarcity. The game’s value in the collectors’ market can vary, with factors such as condition, authenticity, and demand influencing the price. Well-preserved cabinets with original artwork and components tend to command higher values.

Amidar arcade cabinets ran on dedicated hardware designed by Konami. The specifications include a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, specialized sound hardware, and custom graphics components. For those interested in repairing or restoring an Amidar cabinet, relevant parts may include the Z80 CPU, sound chips, display hardware, and input devices such as joysticks and buttons. Replacement parts can often be sourced from vintage electronics markets or specialized suppliers catering to classic arcade hardware

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

Amidar:
Dedicated Upright
Genre: Platformer, Puzzle, Pac-Man Like

Lower – 875
Average – 1000
Higher – 1250