Cloud 9 (prototype)

Cloud 9 is a single-player shooter developed by Atari and released in 1983. Players control a character tasked with eliminating clouds from the sky using a trackball for movement and two buttons for firing. The objective involves destroying all visible clouds before a chamber at the bottom of the screen becomes flooded, while also avoiding rain drops and other enemies that appear within the gameplay area. Originally conceived as "Weather War" with an unusual design element involving a plug to drain water, this prototype ultimately took on its final form under programmer Paul Resch. Dona Bailey, known for her work on Centipede, was initially involved in development but did not complete the project. Cloud 9 features a resolution of 256 x 240 pixels and utilizes two POKEY sound chips to generate audio. The game experienced a very limited run, only undergoing playtesting at one location before being shelved. Its distinctive use of a trackball control scheme and unique premise set it apart from other shooters of the era, though its short lifespan prevented broader exposure.