Halloween (video game)

Halloween is a 1983 slasher-themed horror video game programmed by Chris Oberth for the Atari 2600. It was published by Wizard Video, a company known for releasing controversial and exploitation-themed titles. The game is loosely based on the 1978 horror film of the same name, although due to licensing limitations, many elements were altered.

The player controls a babysitter who must protect two children from Michael Myers (referred to as "The Shape" in the game's manual). The game takes place within a house and its surrounding yard, rendered in a simplistic, low-resolution style typical of Atari 2600 games. The babysitter moves around the playfield, attempting to evade Michael Myers, who relentlessly pursues them.

The main objective is to rescue the children by leading them to a safe room within the house. If Michael Myers catches the babysitter or the children, they are eliminated from the game. The game ends when both children are killed.

Halloween is notable for its unsettling atmosphere and its controversial subject matter, which was considered graphic for its time. Its limited graphics and gameplay, however, were often criticized. Despite its limitations, Halloween remains a notable title in the history of horror video games due to its exploitation of the popular slasher film genre and its contribution to the notoriety of Wizard Video. The game's rarity and controversial history have contributed to its status as a collector's item.