Showdown in 2100 A.D., known in Europe as Videopac 14 – Gunfighter is a 1979 multidirectional shooter video game created by Ed Averett and published by Magnavox and Philips for the Magnavox Odyssey², also known as the Philips Videopac G7000. The game is set in a futuristic version of the old west. Two gunfighters face one another across a field filled with trees, similar to Midway’s Gun Fight.
Gameplay
The object of the game is to shoot the other player’s gunfighter. The first player to hit the other gunfighter ten times wins. The trees add some challenge to the game by deflecting bullets fired at them, sometimes even back at the gunfighter who originally fired. At close range it is possible to shoot through the trees. Each gunfighter has six bullets, and more ammunition is hidden in the tree which matches the color of the player’s outfit. Each gunfighter can reload at any
time by touching the tree where his bullets are hidden.
Reception
Paul Kupperberg writing for Video Action called the game concept a bit of a stretch and also said, “the intention, if not the action, of Showdown in 2100 A.D. is fine indeed”. David Lubar of Creative Computing said it “was fairly entertaining, though the gunfighters had a tendency to jump about the screen a bit”. French magazine Tilt thought the game could have used more variations but enjoyed the way gunfighters fall down when they get shot.
Gamer24h Editor's Take
Having closely reviewed Gunfighter, the Gamer24h editorial team considers it one of the most noteworthy titles of recent times. The visionary approach of developer Magnavox, combined with the expertise of publisher Koninklijke Philips NV, has resulted in an exceptionally refined product. Its innovative take on the Multidirectional shooter genre offers a breath of fresh air for fans of the category. In short, an outstanding and immersive gaming experience awaits genre fans — we highly recommend giving it a shot!