NATO Defense

Pacific Novelty’s NATO Defense, released in 1982, is a cooperative maze shooter for two players. Navigate intricate 2D environments while dodging mines and battling enemy tanks to accumulate points. Strategic gameplay involves blasting through sections of walls to create new paths and collecting ammunition drops to replenish your firepower—but be wary, as the tanks return fire. The game’s unusual audio element features a looping cassette that simulates military communications; listen closely for phrases like “You got the wrong war,” or even praise for skillful play. Two distinct maze layouts are included, one favoring tighter corridors and the other emphasizing open spaces. Mastering NATO Defense requires both precision and quick reflexes – Paul Barrette’s record score of over 1.1 million points stands as testament to its challenging nature. A simple ROM swap can also alter gameplay by switching maze sets and slightly increasing game speed, though this change will affect checksum diagnostics.