Seaquest

Name:	Seaquest
Company:	Activision
Model #:	AX-022
Programmers:	Steve Cartwright
Year:	1983
Released?	Yes

I know what you're thinking, but thankfully this game is not based off the crappy TV series of the same name.  Instead, Activision's Seaquest is a fast paced action game where your yellow submarine (We all live in a yellow submarine.) must rescue stranded divers while avoiding (or shooting) sharks, deadly fish, and other underwater baddies.  While this may not sound very exciting, the game kinda grows on you.

Much like a real submarine, you have a limited about of air and cannot stay underwater indefinitely.  Unlike a real submarine you can replenish your air supply (Even the nights are better.) by simply rising to the surface.  Perhaps everyone on board just takes a deep breath before going back under?  This combination of mindless shooting and strategy really makes for a well-balanced game.  The game speed seems to increase exponentially keeping you on your toes at all times.

The simple yet easy to learn gameplay combined with a wide variety of sea life, everything from fish to great whites (I'm once bitten, twice shy baby.).  Like most action good games, the player must rely more on instinct than thinking and this is where Seaquest really shines.  If I had one complaint, it would be that the characters are too big for a single screen game.  It gives the feeling that your really in a big fish tank than a giant ocean.  Then again, maybe you're really one of those toy subs that came in cereal boxes back in the 80's and it really is a giant fish tank?  Just don't run out of baking soda or you'll never be able to surface again!

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