Stompin' (4/4/86)

Stompin' challenges players to react quickly in this unique 1986 arcade game from Bally/Sente. The gameplay revolves around a grid displayed on the screen where various creatures appear along the edges. Players must use a dance pad to physically stomp on the squares corresponding to the critters as they emerge, aiming to eliminate them before they disappear. However, not all figures are pests; players also need to avoid stepping on "good guys" or else lose points. The game utilizes an innovative 3x3 grid controller which was considered by Bally to be a precursor to later games featuring floorplay controls. A single player navigates the action using only the dance pad and a single button, putting reflexes and coordination to the test. The visuals are presented in a resolution of 256 x 240 pixels, complemented by music and sound effects driven by a Zilog Z80 processor and CEM3394 chips. Originally showcased at industry events in 1985 and 1986, Stompin' offered an early example of interactive floor-based gameplay that would influence arcade entertainment for years to come. The game’s design was led by Jon Kinsting with contributions from a team including Bil Maher and Jesse Osborne.