Badlands
Video Archive
Badlands – Could the C64 Handle Atari’s Post-Apocalyptic Arcade Racer?
Released in 1990 by Teque Software and published by Domark under the Tengen label for the Commodore 64, Badlands is an overhead racing game that blends high-speed competition with vehicular combat. Inspired by Atari’s Super Sprint series, it adds a distinctive post-apocalyptic twist to the arcade racing formula. Gameplay features three armed vehicles battling for position over four-lap races across eight hazardous tracks. Viewed from a top-down perspective, each race demands sharp steering, careful braking, and constant awareness of rivals and environmental dangers. During races, you can collect wrenches that are exchanged between events for upgrades such as improved speed, acceleration, and enhanced weapon systems. These progression mechanics add a strategic layer, rewarding consistent performance and smart investment. Tracks are packed with hazards including mines, retractable barriers, and tight corners, forcing you to balance aggression with precision.
Game Overview
About the Game
Released in 1990 by Teque Software and published by Domark under the Tengen label for the Commodore 64, Badlands is an overhead racing game that blends high-speed competition with vehicular combat. Inspired by Atari’s Super Sprint series, it adds a distinctive post-apocalyptic twist to the arcade racing formula. Gameplay features three armed vehicles battling for position over four-lap races across eight hazardous tracks. Viewed from a top-down perspective, each race demands sharp steering, careful braking, and constant awareness of rivals and environmental dangers. During races, you can collect wrenches that are exchanged between events for upgrades such as improved speed, acceleration, and enhanced weapon systems. These progression mechanics add a strategic layer, rewarding consistent performance and smart investment. Tracks are packed with hazards including mines, retractable barriers, and tight corners, forcing you to balance aggression with precision.
Game Manual
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews · 8
Contemporary average 65% · range 41–82%
ACE
Reviewed by David Upchurch. Domark full-price release
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C&VG
Reviewed by Domark full-price release
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Commodore Force
Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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Your Commodore
Reviewed by Rik Henderson. Domark / Tengen full-price release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by Robin Hogg & Warren Lapworth. Domark / Tengen full-price release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by Robin Hogg & Stuart Wynne. Domark / Tengen full-price release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by Mark Caswell. The Hit Squad budget release
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Zzap!64
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