Arkanoid
Video Archive
Arkanoid – Did the C64 Get One of the Best Arcade Conversions of 1987?
Released in 1987 by Taito and ported to the Commodore 64 by Imagine Software, Arkanoid is one of the most iconic block-breaking games of the 1980s. You control the paddle-shaped spaceship Vaus, bouncing an energy ball to smash through colourful brick formations and clear each stage without letting the ball fall. Gameplay is built around precision, timing, and fast reactions, with increasingly complex layouts and enemy hazards appearing as the game progresses. The introduction of power-ups such as multi-ball, laser paddles, extended bats, and speed modifiers adds strategic depth and keeps every stage feeling fresh and unpredictable. Progression depends on mastering ball control, anticipating rebounds, and making smart use of collected upgrades. Later levels demand near-perfect positioning and concentration, rewarding skilled players with high scores and extended survival. The Commodore 64 version closely follows the original arcade release, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth animation that capture the feel of the coin-op experience.
Game Overview
About the Game
Released in 1987 by Taito and ported to the Commodore 64 by Imagine Software, Arkanoid is one of the most iconic block-breaking games of the 1980s. You control the paddle-shaped spaceship Vaus, bouncing an energy ball to smash through colourful brick formations and clear each stage without letting the ball fall. Gameplay is built around precision, timing, and fast reactions, with increasingly complex layouts and enemy hazards appearing as the game progresses. The introduction of power-ups such as multi-ball, laser paddles, extended bats, and speed modifiers adds strategic depth and keeps every stage feeling fresh and unpredictable. Progression depends on mastering ball control, anticipating rebounds, and making smart use of collected upgrades. Later levels demand near-perfect positioning and concentration, rewarding skilled players with high scores and extended survival. The Commodore 64 version closely follows the original arcade release, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth animation that capture the feel of the coin-op experience.
Game Manual
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews · 11
Contemporary average 84% · range 66–100%
C&VG
Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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C&VG
Reviewed by Imagine full-price release
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Commodore Force
Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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Commodore User
Reviewed by Eugene Lacey. Imagine full-price release
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Datormagazin
Reviewed by Tomas Hybner. Imagine full-price release
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Games Machine
Reviewed by Richard Eddy. Ocean full-price release
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Info
Reviewed by Don Romero. Taito full-price release
Scan Not Available
Your Commodore
Reviewed by Gordon Hamlett. Imagine full-price release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by Gary Penn, Julian Rignall & Steve Jarratt. Imagine full-price release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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Zzap!64
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Game Music
Game Music
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