Cloak and Dagger

Cloak and Dagger is an arcade video game developed and released by Atari in 1983. It is a unique and innovative combination of action and espionage elements, offering players an immersive experience as they navigate through a series of increasingly challenging levels. The game features both single-player and cooperative gameplay, allowing two players to work together in the quest for high scores.

Cloak and Dagger was developed by Atari as an adaptation of the 1984 film of the same name. The game was designed by Atari’s Dave Theurer, known for his work on other iconic titles such as Missile Command and Tempest. The development process aimed to capture the essence of the movie’s spy theme while introducing engaging gameplay mechanics. The result was a one-of-a-kind arcade experience that stood out in the gaming landscape of the early 1980s.

Upon its release, Cloak and Dagger received positive reviews for its innovative gameplay, graphics, and cooperative mode. The combination of action and strategy elements appealed to a broad audience, and the game quickly gained a following in arcades. While not as commercially successful as some of Atari’s other titles, Cloak and Dagger is remembered fondly by retro gaming enthusiasts for its unique design and challenging gameplay.

Cloak and Dagger exists primarily in its arcade form, with no official home console releases. The game’s distinctive theme and mechanics have inspired various titles in the action and espionage genres, though none directly related. Its influence can be seen in subsequent games that incorporate elements of stealth and strategy.

Cloak and Dagger arcade cabinets are considered rare collectors’ items. The exact number of units produced is not widely documented, contributing to its scarcity. Due to its limited availability, the game has become sought after by collectors, and well-preserved cabinets can command a high price on the market, with values ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars depending on condition and authenticity.

Cloak and Dagger’s arcade hardware features Atari’s System 1 architecture. The game is powered by a 1.5 MHz 6502 processor and utilizes a custom Atari POKEY sound chip for audio. The monitor is typically a 19-inch color raster display. For those interested in repairing or maintaining a Cloak and Dagger cabinet, resources such as schematics, manuals, and replacement parts can be found through arcade enthusiast communities and specialized vendors. Common issues may include monitor problems, control panel malfunctions, or power supply issues, all of which can be addressed with the appropriate technical knowledge and replacement components.