[🧵 2/x] I’ve wanted to feature a vector graphics game for some time on here, and so here we have: Star Wars! Based on the little-known film of the same name (I think it's about space wizards or something?), Star Wars sees you reliving the final act of the film. The game consists of three waves- a dogfight wave, a surface-flight wave, and a trench-run phase. Each wave has enemies and obstacles specific to that wave (e.g. TIE Fighters, defense cannons, etc), and the final wave (trench-run) culminates in blowing up the Death Star. The cycle then begins anew, but with increased difficulty!
[🧵 3/x] I should say some words about vector graphics (within my limited knowledge of the subject). All of the games I’ve featured up to now use raster graphics. Vector graphics operate a bit differently; specifically, they draw with geometric primitives (such as points and lines) in order to create complete images (such as the display in Star Wars). Additionally, the way these graphics are drawn on a CRT differs a bit as well. With raster graphics, the electron beam scans across all lines of the screen, from top to bottom. With vector graphics, the beam only goes where directed by the CPU. This can create really cool “luminescence” visual effects (see below) when the beam is held at a particular location for an extended duration (this is REALLY striking if you see it in person)!
[🧵 4/x] I personally love old vector arcade games because their aesthetic “feel” gives me strong “science/engineering project” vibes. Specifically, I mentally associate the angular, luminescent lines of old vector games with oscilloscopes and scientific equipment (e.g. Tennis for Two, pictured below), so when I see a similar “feel” in an arcade game, my brain immediately connects the two. I also really like the minimalism inherent in the graphics; there’s a real stark beauty in the glowing red/blue/green wireframe shapes against those stark dark backgrounds that’s hard to describe unless seen in person.
[🧵 5/x] Anyway! Now that we know a bit about vector graphics, we can really appreciate how rich Star Wars’ visuals are! Moving onto the cabinets themselves: I've only ever played on the upright version of the cabinet, but a deluxe version exists, which provides a sitdown "cockpit" experience. I actually really like the upright cabinet; that overhanging "marquee hood" is really distinct any time I see it lined up next to other arcade games.
[🧵 6/x] The game has a REALLY cool easter egg- on odd-numbered levels, the words "MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU" are written on the Death Star, whereas on even-numbered levels, the names of the designers are likewise written on it! These messages usually look like a series of dots to the naked eye and are almost imperceptible under normal operation (as the transition happens very quickly), but can be seen if the brightness is cranked up and if the game is somehow slowed/paused. Someone was kind enough to do just this and detail it on their blog (which is also where the latter two images come from).
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