Frenzy

Frenzy is a classic arcade video game released by Stern Electronics in 1982. It is a sequel to the earlier title Berzerk and shares similar gameplay mechanics. Frenzy is a maze-based shooter that places players in control of a humanoid character navigating through various electrified mazes filled with hostile robots. The goal is to survive the onslaught of enemies, strategically maneuver through the maze, and achieve high scores by destroying robots.

Frenzy was developed as a sequel to the highly successful Berzerk, which was released in 1980. Stern Electronics, a prominent arcade game manufacturer, aimed to capitalize on Berzerk’s popularity by creating a follow-up with enhanced graphics and gameplay. Frenzy retained the iconic speech synthesis feature of its predecessor, allowing the robots to taunt and threaten players. The game’s development was led by Stern’s in-house team, and it hit arcades in 1982 during the golden age of arcade gaming.

Frenzy received positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and improved graphics compared to Berzerk. The addition of speech synthesis was praised for adding an extra layer of immersion. The game found success in arcades, earning a dedicated fan base and contributing to Stern Electronics’ reputation as a key player in the arcade industry during the early 1980s.

Frenzy exists primarily in its original arcade cabinet form, but it shares many similarities with its predecessor, Berzerk. Both games have inspired numerous clones and adaptations on various gaming platforms, showcasing the enduring appeal of the maze shooter genre.

Due to its age and the natural attrition of arcade cabinets, Frenzy has become a sought-after collector’s item. The game’s rarity has increased over the years, and finding a well-preserved, functioning cabinet can be a challenging task. Estimates suggest that a limited number of Frenzy cabinets were produced, further contributing to its rarity. The current market value for a Frenzy cabinet in good condition can vary but is generally high, with collectors willing to pay a premium for this classic piece of arcade history.

Frenzy runs on a unique hardware platform developed by Stern Electronics. The hardware specifications include a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, a custom sound and speech synthesis chip, and dedicated circuitry for graphics and gameplay. Repairing a Frenzy cabinet may involve sourcing original or compatible parts, including the Z80 CPU, ROM chips, and various control components. The arcade community often collaborates through forums and online resources to share information on troubleshooting and repairing these classic cabinets, ensuring the preservation of Frenzy for future generations of gamers.