Bounty Bob Strikes Back – Atari 8bit home computers – Big Five

Posted on May 29, 2012 by bob

The Atari 8bit home computer version from Big Five released in 1984, written by Bill Hogue.

Unlike the C64 release, the Atari computer release got its very own big box. It had green sides instead of the blue found on the Atari 5200 release. At least some came packed with a free original Miner 2049er and manual. There was a sticker on the front with the news.

It’s a common myth that the 5200 and Atari 8bit home computer versions are identical. That is not quite true. The computer version is slightly more difficult — some of the platforms are smaller.

The 5200 version is above. Check out the two platforms to the right of transporter 2. They are two “bricks” wide. Now check out the Atari home computer version below. They are only one brick wide.

Miner 2049er – Colecovision – Micro Fun

Posted on May 29, 2012 by bob

This is the 1983 US Colecovision release by Micro Fun, programmed by Mike Livesay. This was the very first 3rd party game for the Colecovision and was initially rejected by Coleco for reasons unknown. Obviously they ultimately allowed it.

This version featured an extra 11th stage not found in the original (despite the front of the box proclaiming that you should expect “10 screen, full color arcade fun!”) The back of the box says there are 10 levels all over the place as well, except in one spot where it aludes to the 11th level — “in Coleco.” This is because the Apple II, IBM PC, and Colecovision versions all shared the same box, with each getting a sticker on the front saying which version is in the box. The screen shots on the back of the box are of the Apple II version.

The graphics and faster gameplay were also a departure from the Atari 5200 and Atari home computer versions.

Miner 2049er Volume II – Atari 2600 – Tigervision

Posted on May 28, 2012 by bob

Miner 2049er Volume II was released in in 1983 by Tigervision for the Atari 2600. It had only three levels (“Volume I” only had three, too).

The back of the box proclaims “The three new mine screens will greatly challenge your gaming abilities.” They weren’t lying. The 2600 version is one of the hardest of all the ports (mostly because it was so hard to control).

Thanks to poker_plus from AtariAge.com for the packaging images!