Matrix: Gridrunner 2

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Llamasoft's follow up to Gridrunner swaps grid-based movement for frantic side scrolling on Commodore and Spectrum machines. As a lone ship, you dodge waves of camels armed with lasers and missiles in a neon-drenched, high-speed shoot 'em up. The sequel packs more enemies and power ups into its 400-point scoring system while retaining the original's frantic pacing. Single player action stays intense as waves escalate without pause. The game's signature camel mascot kicks off Llamasoft's longtime obsession with the creature. Released December 31 1983, the North American version wore the same title as an unrelated release causing lasting confusion. Despite technical limitations, the VIC-20 port showcased expanded memory techniques that let the sequel outshine its predecessor. A relic of early '80s arcade conversions with cult following due to its absurd theme and relentless difficulty.