Play Barricade | Commodore 64 Online Game (1988)

Barricade, written by Tony Brantner and published by Ahoy!/Ion International, Inc. in 1986, is a strategy game for the Commodore 64. The game is based on the classic board game of the same name, where players take turns moving pieces to block opponents while attempting to reach the opposite side of the board. The Commodore 64 version retains the core mechanics of the original, offering both single-player and two-player modes, with the computer acting as an opponent in the former.

The game features a simple, grid-based interface with a top-down view of the board. Players control their pieces using the keyboard, navigating diagonally across the grid while strategically placing barriers to hinder their opponent's progress. The objective is to outmaneuver the opponent and reach the opposite side of the board first, requiring careful planning and foresight.

Barricade's graphics are minimalistic, focusing on functionality over visual flair, which was typical for strategy games of the era. The sound design is similarly straightforward, with basic effects to indicate moves and actions. Despite its simplicity, the game effectively captures the tension and strategic depth of the board game, making it a faithful adaptation for the Commodore 64.

The game was part of Ahoy!'s lineup of budget-friendly titles, aimed at providing accessible entertainment for home computer users. While it didn't push the technical limits of the Commodore 64, it offered a solid and engaging experience for fans of strategy games, particularly those familiar with the original board game.