Description

"Outlaw," developed by Atari and released for the Atari 2600 console in 1978, is a Wild West-themed shootout game that pits two players against each other in a duel of gunslingers. In the game, players control stick-figure cowboys, which they move horizontally across a simple, screen-wide wild west townscape. The objective is to shoot the opponent while avoiding return fire. Various obstacles like cacti and stagecoaches offer cover and can be strategically used for protection or to block shots, however, most are destructible over time. In addition to the two-player mode, "Outlaw" also features single-player variants where the player duels against an AI opponent, which increases in difficulty as the rounds progress.

The game's design was influenced by earlier arcade dueling games, incorporating basic shooting mechanics simplified for the Atari 2600's capabilities. "Outlaw" was programmed by David Crane, who later became known for creating "Pitfall!"—one of the best-selling games for the 2600. The technological limitations of the Atari 2600 meant that despite its simplicity, "Outlaw" showcased the innovative use of graphics and responsive controls as a means of delivering engaging gameplay. Its variations, including target shooting against stationary and moving targets, added to its replay value and helped cement its place as a popular title in the Atari library. This game exemplifies the early era of video gaming where gameplay simplicity was key for entertainment.