Airlock, developed by Data Age and released for the Atari 2600 in 1982, is a platform video game that puts the player in a high-stakes scenario inside a sinking nuclear submarine. The primary objective is to escape the submarine by progressing through its various levels while avoiding obstacles and managing time constraints.
The gameplay consists of the player navigating their way up the levels of the submarine, collecting two hatch keys on each floor to unlock the elevator that leads to the next level. Time is of the essence, as the floors will flood if the player takes too long, making escape impossible and resulting in a loss.
Adding to the challenge, the submarine’s loose torpedoes roam the floors due to the crash. The player must jump over these torpedoes to avoid being stunned and losing valuable time. The game tests the player’s reflexes and decision-making skills as they work to overcome obstacles and reach safety before the submarine becomes fully submerged.