In “Boing!” for the Atari 2600, you’re in control of a character known as BUBBLE, navigating through a game using the joystick plugged into the left port. The joystick allows BUBBLE to move up, down, left, or right, but not diagonally. By continuously holding the joystick in a direction, BUBBLE will keep jumping that way until it hits the playfield boundary. Quick taps on the joystick let BUBBLE move step by step.
Controls:
- The Game Select Switch enables choosing from the initial three levels; levels four to six are unlocked through gameplay. Adjust levels using the switch and confirm with the joystick button or Game Reset, which can be done any time.
- The Game Reset Switch restarts the game at the last selected level.
Demo Mode:
- A demo showcases gameplay across all six levels, automatically playing after a game ends or when the last BUBBLE is lost.
Gameplay:
- The aim is to light up 36 steps (a grid of 6×6) by making BUBBLE land on each, sometimes in specific sequences.
- Avoid the BUBBLE EATER and the PIN, as contact with either will pop BUBBLE. The BUBBLE EATER pursues BUBBLE, and the PIN descends the grid, popping anything in its path.
- You begin with five BUBBLES, displayed at the screen’s bottom, losing one upon popping. Earn extra BUBBLES by scoring 10,000 points.
Levels:
- Six levels, each with five waves, increasing in difficulty and requiring strategic navigation to light up or toggle the steps.
- Levels 1-3 have specific rules for activating steps, while levels 4-6 introduce a toggle feature where steps turn off if already on.
- Initial levels are selectable; higher levels must be achieved by progressing through the game.
Scoring:
- Points are earned by activating steps, popping the BUBBLE EATER, completing waves, and finishing levels.
Strategies and Tips:
- Utilize quick movements and strategic positioning to avoid the BUBBLE EATER and the PIN.
- Remember, BUBBLE can safely pass through these adversaries if timed correctly, especially when both are in mid-air.
- The PIN poses a particular threat at the top row, where it begins its descent; stay alert and ready to move.
- Luring the BUBBLE EATER into the path of the descending PIN can be a useful tactic to disable it temporarily and score points.
- The game’s dynamics require a balance of bold moves and cautious timing to navigate through the levels successfully.