Protector

Protector is a 1981 scrolling shooter for the Atari 8-bit family programmed by Mike Potter and distributed first by Crystalware and then Synapse Software. A VIC-20 port was published by HesWare in 1983. The player attempts to rescue the citizens of a city from an impending volcanic explosion. The design of the game is inspired by Defender from Williams Electronics, though not a direct clone. The sequel, Protector II, has similar gameplay but is more advanced graphically. Gameplay The gameplay of Protector is inspired by Defender, with the player controlling a rocket fighter of similar design and the general goal being to pick up civilians from the ground to protect them from the enemy. The game is less action-oriented, however, and contains a more strategic component.