B-17 Bomber
Main Game
RELEASED
Dec 31, 1982
IntellivisionbyMattel Electronics
Overview:|
Released in 1982, B-17 Bomber is an Arcade Simulator where you pilot a heavy bomber near the end of WWII. The core loop involves selecting a distant strategic target, managing fuel and bombs, and flying across the English Channel. Gameplay demands rapid switching between cockpit view for piloting, bomb bay view for targeting, and gunner view for defending against enemy fighters. Success requires balancing the risk of long flights against high point rewards, returning to base for repairs when damaged or low on fuel.
This title, released in 1982 for the Intellivision platform, places the player in the cockpit of a heavy bomber during the latter stages of World War II. As the pilot, the core objective is to execute strategic bombing runs across the English Channel to destroy various enemy targets. The experience blends elements of simulation with fast-paced arcade action, demanding careful resource management alongside precise combat maneuvers.
Core Gameplay Loop and Mission Structure
The mission begins with strategic planning. Players must select a target destination, with further targets offering higher point rewards but requiring longer flight times, increased fuel consumption, and presenting a greater density of defending enemy fighters. Following destination selection, the aircraft must be adequately stocked with both fuel and ordnance before takeoff.
Once airborne, the game shifts into a first-person perspective, allowing the player to cycle through several distinct viewpoints essential for different phases of the mission:
- Cockpit View: Used primarily for controlling the aircraft's navigation and flight path.
- Bomb Bay View: A downward-facing perspective necessary for accurately aiming and releasing bombs onto the selected targets.
- Gunner View: Activated when enemy fighters are detected, this view allows the player to take manual control of the defensive weaponry to repel incoming attacks.
Survival is contingent upon managing the aircraft's condition. If fuel reserves deplete or the plane sustains critical damage, the player must divert course and return to the home base for necessary repairs before rejoining the bombing campaign.
What makes this title unique for its era?
The game's distinct feature lies in its multi-faceted control scheme, requiring players to rapidly switch between piloting, bombing, and defensive gunnery roles based on the immediate tactical situation. This rapid context-switching between simulation management and immediate arcade defense provides a dynamic challenge.
Resource Management and Risk Assessment
A key strategic element involves balancing risk versus reward. Choosing a distant, high-value target necessitates careful monitoring of fuel reserves and anticipating sustained engagement with enemy aircraft. Successfully returning to base after a successful run allows for continuation, extending the overall mission duration and potential score.
Additional Content Availability
As a main game release from its era, this title does not feature any downloadable content, expansions, remakes, or remasters.
Game Details
Primary Name: B-17 Bomber
Type: Main Game
Developer: Mattel Electronics
Publisher: Mattel Electronics
Release Information
Release Date: Dec 31, 1982
Genres & Themes
Genres: Simulator, Arcade
Themes: Warfare, Action, Historical
Platforms
Intellivision
Game Modes
Perspective: First person
Player Modes: Single-player
Game Modes: Single player
Soren