Combat Redux
Battle in Mazes and Clouds
Jump into Combat Redux, a fan-made tank and plane battle game for the Atari 2600. Navigate mazes and engage in aerial combat with unique playfields.
The game was created by Zach Matley and features designs selected through a community contest on AtariAge. This means the levels aren't random; they are carefully crafted mazes and patterns that test your skills in different ways. You can battle opponents in tanks, bi-planes, and jet-fighters, picking your preferred style of combat before you start.
When you begin a tank match, you will navigate through one of the open, easy, or complex mazes. The open mazes give you plenty of space to maneuver, while the complex ones force you to think carefully about every turn. If you prefer aerial combat, the game switches to cloud designs where visibility is key. You will need to watch for enemy ships appearing from behind the clouds, making surprise attacks a common tactic.
Playing with a friend adds another layer of fun. The game supports two players using a joystick controller, allowing for head-to-head battles. Whether you are trying to outmaneuver your opponent in a tight maze or dogfighting above the clouds, the controls respond directly to your movements. Selecting playfields and game variations is done simply with the joystick, so you can quickly switch between modes to keep things interesting.
One of the best parts of Combat Redux is the variety. With seven open mazes, seven easy mazes, and seven complex mazes for tanks, plus seven cloud designs for air combat, no two sessions feel exactly the same. The physical cartridge version was released by AtariAge with label design by Dave Exton, showing that this project has a dedicated following among retro gaming fans.
If you enjoy the tactical side of tank battles, you might also want to check out Combat Redux Black. It offers a similar experience with its own unique set of challenges and playfields for those who want to dive deeper into this style of gameplay.
As you play, pay attention to the layout of each maze. In the complex mazes, dead ends can trap you if you are not careful. Use your shots wisely; in tank mode, you need to time your fire to hit moving targets while navigating tight corners. In jet-fighter mode, the clouds provide cover, but they also hide your enemies. Listen for audio cues and watch the edges of the screen for movement.
The game feels fast-paced and engaging. There is no slow buildup; you are in the action immediately. The challenge comes from mastering the different maps and adapting your strategy to each one. Whether you prefer the heavy, grounded feel of tank combat or the quick, unpredictable nature of aerial dogfights, Combat Redux delivers a solid retro gaming experience.
Remember that this is a fan-made modification of the original 1977 game Combat. It builds on that foundation by adding new content and variety. The distinction between the classic original and this 2004 hack is clear in the expanded options, but the core fun remains the same: simple controls, competitive gameplay, and the thrill of victory.
Grab a joystick, invite a friend, and see which playfield suits your style best. The mazes are waiting, and the skies are open for battle.