California Games on the Atari 2600
Introduction:
Welcome to the heart of action sports, California, where the sun kisses the shores and the streets buzz with the thrill of competition. California Games is your ticket to the ultimate sports adventure, offering a blend of surfing, BMX biking, skateboarding, and more. Choose your sponsors and dive into the action, wearing your knee pads and bringing the spirit of a true Californian athlete. From San Francisco’s foot bag tricks to Hollywood’s half-pipe skateboarding, the journey spans the vibrant landscapes of California. Prepare for an adrenaline rush with surfing’s towering waves and BMX’s challenging tracks. It’s time for endless fun and fierce competition in California Games.
Objectives:
Compete solo or in a group of up to 8 in California Games, aiming for victory in each event to collect ribbons and score the highest in overall competition. The game features 4 exhilarating events: Foot Bag, Half Pipe Skateboarding, BMX Bike Racing, and Surfing. Choose your sponsor, excel in each event, and strive to become the California Champion.
Getting Started:
- Insert the game cartridge and connect a joystick to the left port.
- Power on your console to launch California Games.
Starting Play:
Hit the fire button on the title screen to proceed to sponsor selection. Choose from 8 sponsors by navigating with the joystick and confirming with the fire button. Once all players have chosen, select “DONE” to start the events. Each event ends with “Louie, Louie” as a cue to move to the next challenge. Rankings are displayed post-event, with ribbons awarded based on scores. Practice any event by selecting it with the SELECT button and entering practice mode via RESET.
The Events:
- Foot Bag: Keep the bag airborne using your feet, knees, and head, performing stunts for points.
- Half Pipe Skateboarding: Showcase your skateboarding skills on a half-pipe, executing stunts for high scores.
- BMX Bike Racing: Race down a mountainous track, performing stunts and avoiding obstacles to finish with the best time.
- Surfing: Master the waves, performing tricks and long rides for maximum points.
Scoring and Strategy:
Points vary by event, rewarding stunts, speed, and technique. Strategic play, timing, and skillful execution are key to dominating each event and clinching the title of California Champion.
Awards Ceremony:
Ribbons are distributed after each event, with an overall champion crowned based on total points from all events. The ultimate goal is to earn the prestigious blue ribbon, marking you as the champion of California Games.