Paperboy

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Paperboy is a video game originally released in 1984 by Atari Games. The game is a critical and commercial success, known for its innovative gameplay and charming 8-bit graphics. In Paperboy, players assume the role of a paperboy who delivers newspapers along a suburban street on his bicycle. The objective is to deliver papers to subscribers while avoiding various obstacles and hazards along the route.

Gameplay

In Paperboy, the player controls the paperboy as he navigates a series of obstacles on his route, which includes cars, pedestrians, and even bizarre hazards like runaway tires and breakdancing individuals. The player must throw newspapers onto subscribers' doorsteps or mailboxes to score points, while non-subscribers' homes can be vandalized for bonus points, though this comes with the risk of losing subscribers. The game ends when the player loses all lives or completes the route.

Development and Release

Developed by Atari Games, Paperboy was initially released for the arcade and subsequently ported to various home systems, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Commodore 64, and Sega Genesis. Its unique handlebar control scheme in the arcade version and the innovative use of isometric graphics set it apart from other games of its time.

Reception

Upon its release, Paperboy was praised for its originality and engaging gameplay. It has since been considered a classic, influencing many other video games and being included in various game compilations and re-releases on newer platforms.

Legacy

The legacy of Paperboy extends beyond its initial release, with the game being ported to over a dozen systems and included in numerous Atari compilation releases. It has also inspired a sequel, Paperboy 2, and a 3D version for the Nintendo 64. Despite its age, Paperboy remains a beloved title in the video game community, often cited for its challenging gameplay and as a nostalgic favorite among gamers who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s.