Fire Attack

Overview

Fire Attack is a Wide Screen Game & Watch released on 26 March 1982. The player defends a fort against attacking enemies, using a tomahawk-type weapon to block firesticks thrown by Indian chiefs from the top row, while also fending off enemies who try to set fire to the fort from below using matches. Two points are awarded for each fire blocked. Three misses are permitted — each time the fort catches fire — and all misses are cleared at 200 and 500 points.

Gameplay

In Game A, the player starts at a comfortable pace defending the fort from both rows of attackers. Game B begins at a harder difficulty, with enemies appearing more frequently and moving faster from the outset. Two points are scored for each successful block. Misses accumulate when the fort is set alight, and three misses ends the game — though all misses are cleared at 200 and 500 points as a bonus mechanic.

Fire Attack was later recreated in Game & Watch Gallery 4 for Game Boy Advance. In the Super Smash Bros. series, Mr. Game & Watch has an attack in which he strikes opponents with a firestick — a direct reference to this game.

Legacy & Significance

Fire Attack is notable for its dual-threat gameplay, which required players to manage enemies on two separate rows simultaneously — a design that pushed the Wide Screen format's capabilities. Its cultural sensitivity has since been noted, with the game featuring a portrayal of Native Americans that reflects the era's conventions rather than modern standards. The game remains a historically significant part of the Wide Screen lineup and a sought-after collector's piece.