Radar Scope (TRS02, rev. D)

Defend your Sonic Spaceport from relentless waves of Gamma Raiders in Nintendo’s 1980 shooter, Radar Scope. As one of two players, you pilot a Rapid-Fire Laser Blaster across a distinctive vector graphics display, intercepting and destroying incoming enemy ships. Points are awarded based on how low on the radar screen an enemy is destroyed, encouraging precise targeting amidst the chaos. Damage to your Spaceport weakens the laser’s firing speed, represented by a visual “Damage Meter” that must be reset by eliminating all remaining Raiders. Players can customize their experience with adjustable difficulty settings; extra Spaceports are awarded at point milestones, and the initial number of starting bases can be pre-programmed. The game was initially released in Japan in late 1979 and arrived outside of Japan in November 1980. Radar Scope was available as a dedicated upright cabinet with spaceship themed side art, a cocktail table version, or an immersive environmental unit designed to enhance the sound effects. This early work from Nintendo featured graphics by Shigeru Miyamoto and music composed by Hirokazu Tanaka. The game utilized a Zilog Z80 main CPU and discrete circuitry for its audio, providing a unique arcade experience centered on cooperative defense against an endless swarm of Gamma Raiders.