Fast Eddie

Fast Eddie is a platformer for the Atari 2600, published in 1982 by Sirius Software. It was programmed by Mark Turmell.

The premise is simple: on each level, guide Eddie to collect prizes (the type of prize changes on each level--on the first level, you collect hearts) while avoiding the enemies (called "Sneakers").

Once you've collected enough prizes, the tall Sneaker (called "High-Top") on the top floor shrinks down, and Eddie can grab the key and proceed to the next level. You earn one extra life each time you complete a level, and may hold a maximum of three in reserve.

On early levels, some of the Sneakers will be stationary, but on later levels all Sneakers will move, and there may be more of them, in more difficult arrangements.

Though simple in concept, completing each level can be quite challenging. You've got to be very cautious if you want to make it through later levels, but you have to think on the move, because the Sneakers move quickly and give you no time to rest. The only reprieve you get is that you're invulnerable while climbing a ladder. Just be careful not to drop off in front of a Sneaker!

This is a very playable early platformer. Though graphically unimpressive, due to the limitations of the Atari 2600, it has great, responsive controls and quick action, giving the feeling of arcade platformers on a home console. It's definitely worth a look!

Fast Eddie was also ported to VIC-20, Commodore 64, and Atari 8-bit platforms.

Further reading

• There's a great comparison of the different ports in the Retrogaming Times.
• If you'd like something more contemporary with the game, a review with strategy tips was given in Creative Computing Video & Arcade Games Vol. 1 No. 2.