Atari sends ripples through the gaming world by opening preorders for Save Mary, an Atari 2600 title that was shrouded in mystery for decades. For the dedicated collectors, each cartridge will be encased in a specialized silver box and will come with a full-color manual. Limited to 500 copies, the game is priced at $59.99.
The Saga of Save Mary—From Development Hell to Collector’s Shelf
Save Mary was in the works for an extended period, clocking over two years in development. However, the plug was pulled on Atari 2600 game development in 1990, post the release of Fatal Run, leaving Save Mary as vaporware. The creative force behind the game is none other than Tod Frye, the seasoned Atari developer also credited with the 2600 adaptations of Pac-Man and the Swordquest series.
Nolan Bushnell’s Hidden Gem
Atari co-founder, Nolan Bushnell, showed anticipation for Save Mary in a 1989 Atari Magazine interview. He highlighted the game’s unique approach, focusing on construction rather than destruction to rescue the damsel in distress. According to Bushnell, the emotional stakes were high, “The guilt you feel is tremendous,” when you either squash Mary or don’t save her in time.
Gameplay Mechanics—A Crane, A Canyon, and a Steep Curve
The game’s objective is as straightforward as it gets: Save Mary from a rapidly filling canyon using a conveniently placed crane. Gamers have to skillfully maneuver building blocks to create a platform for Mary’s escape. However, a simple mistake, like swinging a block into Mary, results in failure.
Power-Ups: A Nod to Pac-Man?
While the game is notorious for its brutal difficulty, Tod Frye didn’t leave players hanging. He incorporated power-ups to provide some relief, albeit strategically placed on cliff sides for an added challenge. Given Frye’s background in adapting Pac-Man, which was the first-ever game to feature power-ups, the inclusion seems less coincidental.
Quality Assurance—Atari XP Cartridges
In a move to ensure optimal user experience, the Save Mary Atari XP cartridges are engineered to precise specifications. They feature beveled edges to prevent pin damage, gold-plated connectors for seamless interface, and match the power draw of original cartridges.
So there it is, G-LYFE Nation. If you’re a fan of retro gaming and Atari history, Save Mary might be a title you’ll want to add to your collector’s shelf. Stay locked in for more updates and make your gaming decisions well-informed!
