Gravitar

Gravitar is a classic arcade game developed and released by Atari, Inc. in 1982. It stands as a challenging and innovative space-themed shooter that combines elements of precision control, strategic gameplay, and gravity physics. Players navigate a spaceship through a series of planetary landscapes, battling hostile enemies and overcoming gravitational forces to complete challenging missions.

Gravitar was conceptualized by Atari’s legendary game designer, Eugene Jarvis. The development of the game began in 1981, with Jarvis aiming to create a title that merged the thrill of space exploration with the precision of skill-based gameplay. The project faced numerous challenges, including the complexity of programming gravity physics and designing intricate planetary landscapes. Despite the difficulties, Gravitar was eventually released in 1982, marking a significant addition to Atari’s arcade lineup.

Upon its release, Gravitar garnered praise for its unique gameplay mechanics and challenging levels. The game’s blend of precision controls and gravity physics set it apart from other arcade titles of the era. While not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of Atari’s other classics, Gravitar earned a dedicated fanbase and is remembered fondly for its innovation in the arcade gaming landscape.

Gravitar exists in its original arcade cabinet form, but has also been adapted for various home gaming consoles and computer platforms. Additionally, Atari released a spiritual successor titled “Space Duel” in 1982, which shared similar gameplay mechanics and added cooperative play elements.

Due to its moderate commercial success, Gravitar arcade cabinets are considered somewhat rare today. The exact number of units created is not widely documented, contributing to its collector’s appeal. The game’s rarity, combined with its nostalgic value, can make well-preserved cabinets sought after by collectors. The estimated value of a Gravitar arcade cabinet in good condition can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on factors such as cabinet condition, originality, and overall rarity.

Gravitar operates on Atari’s vector graphics hardware platform. The game’s hardware includes a Wells-Gardner 6100 color vector monitor, an Atari Asteroids Deluxe power supply, and custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) that control the gameplay. Common repair needs may include monitor adjustments, control panel refurbishment, and replacement of aging electronic components. Detailed hardware specs and repair guides are available within the arcade gaming community, facilitating the preservation and restoration of these iconic machines.