Joust (USA)

What is Joust (USA)?

Joust (USA) is a classic arcade action game originally developed by Williams Electronics, adapted for the Atari 7800 platform. Players assume the role of a knight riding a flying ostrich, battling enemies mid-air by colliding with them from below while avoiding hazards and staying airborne. The game emphasizes reflexes, timing, and strategic movement, capturing the fast-paced intensity of its arcade roots.

Game Features

• Fast-paced aerial combat: Defeat enemies by colliding with them from beneath.
• Two-player cooperative mode: Team up with a friend to survive waves of enemies.
• Dynamic physics-based movement: Control your ostrich's altitude by flapping.
• Progressive difficulty: Face increasingly challenging enemy patterns and obstacles.
• Retro arcade aesthetics: Pixel art and sound effects that evoke 1980s arcade charm.

How to Play Joust (USA)?

1. Start the game: Press the Start button (mapped to Enter key) to begin.
2. Movement controls:
   • Player 1: Use arrow keys to move and Z key (A button) to flap wings.
   • Player 2: Use WASD keys to move and X key (A button) to flap wings.
3. Objective: Eliminate enemies by colliding with them from below; contact from above will knock you down.
4. Stay airborne: Continuously flap to maintain altitude and avoid falling off-screen.
5. Power-ups: Collect floating items to temporarily boost abilities (e.g., invincibility).
6. Survive waves: Progress through increasingly difficult stages by defeating all enemies in each round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I collide with an enemy from above?
You will lose a life or sustain damage, depending on the game mode. Always attack from below!

Can I play Joust (USA) solo?
Yes! The game supports single-player mode, though two-player co-op adds extra challenge and fun.

How do I control flapping in Joust (USA)?
Hold down the Z key (Player 1) or X key (