Tank Wars (1986) for DOS is an early, top-down, multiplayer tank battle game that has remained a nostalgic favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game pits players against each other in a battlefield, where they control tanks and attempt to destroy their opponents while avoiding obstacles and navigating the map.
The gameplay is simple yet strategic—players take turns firing shells at each other, with the goal being to outsmart and outmaneuver their opponents. The tanks are controlled by keyboard, and the shells' trajectories are influenced by factors like terrain, angles, and the power of the shot, adding an element of physics and strategy. Different maps and levels offer varied challenges, including destructible environments and barriers that can alter the course of battles.
Tank Wars supports both single-player and multiplayer modes (on a single screen), with the latter being particularly popular in local multiplayer setups, making it a great party game. While the graphics are basic (as was typical for the time), the game’s simple yet addictive gameplay and competitive nature made it a fun and memorable classic in the 80s. It’s a great example of early tactical combat gaming, and its influence can still be felt in modern multiplayer tank games.
