Centipede

Developer: Atari, Inc.

Centipede remains a tense, fast-paced arcade classic where you defend a small shooter at the bottom of the screen from a descending segmented centipede and a host of critters. Using a trackball or joystick, players blast mushrooms to break the centipede into shorter pieces while juggling spiders, fleas and scorpions that alter the playfield. Simple controls hide deep risk–reward choices as field management, precise shots and quick reflexes determine survival. Waves accelerate and screens fill with obstacles, rewarding score mastery and pattern recognition. Ideal for short, addictive sessions, Centipede captures the tactile thrill and challenge of early arcade shooter design.