EPISODE 16: Robo-Squash

#PA2035, Published by Atari Corp.

In this episode Monty and I cover a “Zero-G Futuresport” game for the Lynx, Robo-Squash, set in either the 29th or 31st century and released for the Lynx in 1990. As Monty seems somewhat confused as to what the game of squash really is, I go about setting him straight. In the meantime, he and I provide statistics for Robo-Squash, as well as a run-down on how to play it. We also go over reviews and ratings for the game, some fun facts and trivia, plus some very welcome listener feedback.

“Who leaves a country packed with ponies to come to a non-pony country?”

ROBO-SQUASH VITAL STATISTICS

Release Date: October of 1990 (North America and Europe); July 26, 1991 (Japan).

Initial Retail Price: $34.00-$39.00 (US); £29.99 (UK); ₣300 (France).

Cartridge Information: 128kb stereo curved lip-style cartridge.

Game Genre: Front-view 2-dimensional sports action game for 1 player, or for 2 opposing players using the ComLynx cable.

Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal).

Based On: The racket and ball indoor sport called squash, developed in London during the 19th century, and played by two players in a four-walled court using a small, hollow rubber ball.

Ports to Other Systems: Robo-Squash is an Atari Lynx exclusive that was not ported to any other system.

Game Levels: There are 16 rounds, or planets, in Robo-Squash.

Number of Players: 1-2 (with ComLynx support).

Skill Levels: There are 4 skill levels in Robo-Squash: KLUTZ, TERRIFIC, OUTRAGEOUS, and INSANE.

Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). There was also a blister-pack released in Europe for Robo-Squash, as well as French, Japanese, and Micro World variants.

Instruction Manual: An 8-page (including front and back covers) stapled regular-sized booklet manual in monochrome, measuring the usual 4 7/8” high by 3 ¾” wide. The manual was released in English (North America), in French (France), and in Japanese (Japan). It’s possible that it was written by Scott Rhoades.

ROBO-SQUASH CREDITS

Working Title: 3D Barrage.

Developer: NuFX, Inc. (maybe)

Programmer: Ed Schneider

Artwork: Robert Nagel

Music/Sound Effects: David Tumminaro

Producer: Craig Erickson

Be sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console!

LYNX LYNKS

Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”.

LYNX LYNKS

Information About Robo-Squash:

Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Robo-Squash

Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for Robo-Squash

Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Robo-Squash