Squash

About

Squash is a two-player arcade game that swaps out PONG’s straightforward rally for a more tactical version of the classic paddle formula. Players take turns hitting a ball against a central wall, scoring points by forcing their opponent into a position where they can’t return the shot. The ball speeds up over time, adding pressure to quick reflexes and precise aiming. Designed for head-to-head competition, it runs on retro systems like the PC-50X Family and AY-3 chip platforms, giving it a distinctly old-school feel. The game’s simplicity is its strength. Unlike most paddle-based games of the era, Squash emphasizes timing and strategy over pure speed, making it a surprisingly durable pick for competitive play. Released in late 1976, it’s one of the earliest examples of multiplayer-focused arcade design and remains a minor but notable entry in the genre. A handful of modern retro collections include it, though it’s rarely discussed outside niche circles. If you’ve ever wondered what PONG might look like with added rules and risk, this is your answer.