Tactician (set 1)

In the classic arcade game Tactician (set 1), players control a character on a rectangular grid. The primary objective is to collect all items, typically diamonds or pixels, scattered across the screen. Each time the player moves, the enemies on screen also move one step. This creates a crucial strategic element, as players must calculate their moves to avoid being cornered or touched by enemies. If an enemy touches the player, a life is lost.

The game is inherently turn-based, though it feels continuous. Players can move in four cardinal directions: up, down, left, right. Enemies often follow fixed paths or specific logic, requiring players to observe and decipher their movement patterns. Some levels may feature obstacles or other interactive elements like impassable walls or special zones. Difficulty progressively increases through the levels, with more enemies, faster movement, or more complex maze designs.

Scores are calculated based on the number of items collected and sometimes the time taken to complete a level. Tactician demands patience, planning ability, and quick reflexes to overcome its challenges. It's a prime example of 80s strategy/puzzle games, offering a deep thinking experience in a simple yet addictive arcade format.