Crash 'N Score is a
Driving Game from
Atari, released in 1975, and the ancestor of the "Crash n' Score" games in
Indy 500 for the
Atari 2600. One or two players drive around a playfield. There are 16 pylons scattered around the playfield, with numbers on them from 1 to 7. One of the pylons flashes. Whoever runs over the flashing pylon
scores points equal to the number on the pylon, then another pylon starts flashing. The other pylons just slow the players down. There are oil slicks scattered around the playfield, and if the players choose, there can also be barriers. The game ends when
time runs out.
This game provides examples of:
- Attract Mode: The cars drive around by themselves while the game waits for one or two players to insert coins.
- Driving Game: Both players are driving little race cars.
- In-Vehicle Invulnerability: The game makes crashing noises when the cars collide with barriers or each other, but they can’t be destroyed.
- No Plot? No Problem!: It’s an early attempt at a demolition derby game, and just like real demolition derbies, no explanation is needed.
- Player Versus Player: In two-player mode, the players compete to score the most points.
- Scoring Points: Points are awarded based on the number on the pylon being run over. In the final seconds of gameplay, the points awarded are doubled.
- Timed Mission: Game time is set by the arcade cabinet owner adjusting a trim pot. Gameplay lasts until time runs out.
- Top-Down View: The cars and playfield are seen from above.
