Blasted

Blasted is a classic arcade video game developed by Bally Midway and released in 1988. This top-down scrolling shooter offers an intense and fast-paced gaming experience, challenging players to navigate through waves of enemy spacecraft while avoiding obstacles and collecting power-ups. Known for its engaging gameplay and vibrant graphics, Blasted holds a special place in the history of arcade gaming.

The development of Blasted can be traced back to the late 1980s when Bally Midway sought to capitalize on the popularity of the shoot ’em up genre. The game was designed by a team of skilled developers who aimed to create a visually impressive and addictively entertaining arcade experience. Released during the declining years of the arcade era, Blasted faced challenges competing with emerging home gaming consoles.

Blasted received positive reviews for its exciting gameplay and eye-catching graphics. Despite the declining popularity of arcades, the game managed to attract a dedicated fan base. The intuitive controls and challenging levels contributed to its positive reception, although it didn’t achieve the same level of mainstream success as some of its predecessors.

As a standalone arcade title, Blasted did not spawn direct sequels or spin-offs. However, its gameplay mechanics and style are reminiscent of other popular top-down shooters of the era, creating a sense of nostalgia for fans of the genre. Games like Xevious and 1942 share similarities with Blasted in terms of gameplay dynamics and visual style.
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Blasted is considered a relatively rare arcade cabinet, with a limited number of units produced. As a result of its rarity, the game has become a sought-after collector’s item. The exact production numbers are elusive, adding to the mystique surrounding the game. In the collector’s market, the estimated value of a functioning Blasted cabinet can vary significantly, depending on factors such as condition, originality, and demand.

Blasted runs on hardware typical of its time, featuring a custom-designed processor, dedicated graphics hardware, and sound capabilities that contributed to the immersive gaming experience. For collectors or enthusiasts looking to maintain or restore a Blasted cabinet, various resources exist online, providing detailed information about the game’s hardware specifications and a comprehensive list of relevant parts for repairs. Common components for repairs may include power supplies, control panels, and display components.

Blasted remains a noteworthy entry in the history of arcade gaming, offering a glimpse into the final years of the classic arcade era and continuing to captivate collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts to this day.