Major Havoc

Gameplay

Major Havoc was a multi-genre game. Between levels, a Breakout-style minigame kept players engaged. The main game alternated between two modes: a space combat wave where the player's ship fought through enemies (similar to Galaxian), and a platforming level inside an enemy space station where the astronaut character ran, jumped, and navigated maze-like corridors to reach and destroy a reactor. The platforming sections featured variable gravity.

Historical Significance

Major Havoc was one of the last and most technically advanced color vector games Atari produced. It demonstrated the versatility of the AVG hardware by combining shooting and platforming genres. The game also included a hidden Breakout minigame and an early example of in-game narrative progression. Despite its ambition, it was released during the 1983 video game crash and saw limited production — roughly 4,500 units.

Fun Facts & Legacy

Owen Rubin hid an extensive set of easter eggs in the game, including developer credits and a mini version of Breakout accessible from the attract mode. The game's ROM contained a message from Rubin. Major Havoc is one of the most sought-after color vector cabinets among collectors due to its rarity and unique gameplay.