Moon War

Moon War is a classic arcade game developed by Stern in 1981. It is a shoot ’em up game set in outer space where players control a spaceship and battle against waves of enemy ships and obstacles on the moon’s surface. With its fast-paced gameplay and challenging levels, Moon War quickly became a popular title in arcades during the early 1980s.

Moon War was developed by Stern, a prominent arcade game manufacturer known for producing titles such as Berzerk and Scramble. The game was conceptualized during the golden age of arcade gaming in the late 1970s and early 1980s when space-themed shooters were in high demand. Stern aimed to capitalize on this trend by creating a visually captivating and engaging game that would attract players of all ages.

Upon its release, Moon War received positive reviews from both players and critics alike. Its intuitive controls, vibrant graphics, and challenging gameplay were praised as standout features. The game’s unique setting on the moon added an extra layer of intrigue, further immersing players into its futuristic universe. Moon War quickly gained a dedicated fanbase and remains fondly remembered by retro gaming enthusiasts to this day.

Moon War did not have any official sequels or direct spin-offs, but it shares similarities with other space-themed shoot ’em up games of its era, such as Galaga and Space Invaders. Its gameplay mechanics and visual style also inspired later arcade and home console titles within the genre.

Due to its popularity during the arcade boom of the early 1980s, Moon War cabinets were relatively common in arcades across the world. However, as with many vintage arcade games, finding a fully operational Moon War cabinet today can be challenging. The game’s rarity, combined with its nostalgic appeal, has made it a sought-after collectible among retro gaming enthusiasts. Depending on the condition and authenticity of the cabinet, a working Moon War unit can fetch a significant price on the collector’s market, with estimates ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Moon War arcade cabinets were built using standard components typical of arcade machines of the early 1980s. While specific hardware specifications may vary slightly between individual cabinets, common components include:

CRT monitor
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) containing the game software
Control panel with joystick and buttons
Power supply unit
Wiring harnesses and connectors
Cabinet artwork and decals
For repairs and maintenance, collectors and enthusiasts can often find replacement parts through specialized retailers and online marketplaces catering to arcade gaming enthusiasts. Retrofitting modern components, such as LCD monitors or custom control interfaces, may also be feasible for restoring or customizing Moon War cabinets.