For many families, Combat was the first game they ever played on an Atari, because it came packed in with the Video Computer System at its 1977 launch. Programmed by Joe Decuir and Larry Wagner and inspired by Kee Games' arcade Tank, it is strictly a two-player game: there is no computer opponent at all.
The cartridge holds 27 variations split across tanks, biplanes and jets. Tank games range from straightforward duels across a maze of walls to Tank-Pong, where shells bounce off walls, and invisible tanks that only appear when they fire or hit something. Biplane and jet games take the battle into open sky, sometimes among clouds, with options for guided missiles and uneven squadrons such as one large bomber against two smaller planes. Each round is timed, and the player who scores more hits wins. Its simple rules and head-to-head design made it a natural showcase for the console's two joysticks.
Tips for Combat
In Tank-Pong games, bank shells off the walls to hit an opponent hiding behind cover.
In invisible tank games, watch for brief flashes when your opponent fires or bumps a wall to track them.
With guided missiles, steer the shot after firing; it is easy to curve a missile around obstacles.
How to Play Combat
Click Play Now to launch Combat directly in your browser — no downloads or plugins needed. Up drives forward, Left and Right turn, and Z fires. Shift selects one of the 27 game variations and Enter starts or resets. You can also connect a USB or Bluetooth gamepad for a more authentic feel.
Save states let you save your progress at any point. Create a free account to sync saves across devices. Press F11 for fullscreen mode.
Click the "Play Now" button to start playing Combat directly in your browser. No downloads or installations are needed — the game runs instantly using our built-in emulator.
Is Combat free to play?
Combat is free to play here on RetroVault.GG. We believe classic games should be accessible to everyone, so there's no cost to jump in.
What console is Combat for?
Combat is a Atari 2600 title. Our browser-based emulator lets you experience it exactly as it was on the original hardware — no console required.
What genre is Combat?
Combat is a action, fighting, shooter game. It was made for the Atari 2600.
Can I play Combat on my phone?
Yes, RetroVault.GG works on mobile browsers. Visit the game page on your phone or tablet and tap Play Now to start playing Combat.