Panther

About

Panther is a top-down shooter where you command a tank defending a city from waves of enemy armor. You move your vehicle across a grid, firing to destroy incoming tanks before they reach critical points. The 1981 release features simple controls and rapid-fire action typical of early arcade shooters. It plays out on original arcade cabinets or MSX computers, with a focus on quick reflexes and accurate aiming. The game’s minimalistic design and straightforward combat highlight its era’s no-nonsense approach to gaming. Despite its age, Panther remains a brisk challenge with increasing difficulty that tests focus. It predates many modern shooter staples but offers a pure example of early 80s arcade sensibilities. Irem’s first published title sets up their later experiments with more complex mechanics, making this a curious entry for fans of the developer’s history.