Zzyzzyxx (set 1)

Cinematronics / Advanced Microcomputer Systems • 1982

Also known as: Brix

Zzyzzyxx (set 1) — Title screen
Title screen
Zzyzzyxx (set 1) — Gameplay
Gameplay

Navigate a shifting maze in Zzyzzyxx, a unique two-player escape game released in 1982 by Cinematronics and Advanced Microcomputer Systems. Players control Zzyzzyxx, who must maneuver through rows of moving bricks to collect presents as part of a charming, if perilous, quest for the affection of Lola. Along the way, you’ll face hazards like falling bombs, rising missiles, and aggressive "rattifers" determined to thwart your progress. To survive and impress Lola, Zzyzzyxx can seek refuge within the bricks themselves or utilize a gold helmet that allows him to either destroy obstacles or capture those pesky rattifers. Successfully completing each level is rewarded with animated sequences depicting Zzyzzyxx’s pursuit of Lola, accompanied by lively music. As scores increase, Zzyzzyxx gains temporary invincibility, adding another layer of challenge and excitement to the gameplay. Zzyzzyxx presents a distinctive arcade experience distinguished by its vertical screen layout and unusual cabinet design—it was released without dedicated artwork beyond a control panel overlay. The game’s scoring system rewards skillful gift collection, with bonus points scaling up across six levels, creating an engaging challenge for players striving to reach the top of the high score table.

Details

Manufacturer
Cinematronics / Advanced Microcomputer Systems
Year
1982
Players
2
Genre
Maze / Escape
Display
raster, rotated 90°
Emulation status
good
MAME ID
zzyzzyxx

Machine data derived from the MAME project.