Party Mix (1983)
Designed as a multiplayer showcase for the Starpath Supercharger, Party Mix delivers five distinct mini-games that prioritize fast action and team competition. Whether playing two- or four-player, each game supports dynamic interaction between players and AI, made possible by the Supercharger’s multi-load functionality.
- Bop a Buggy has players race to the finish line in off-road buggies while dodging bricks thrown by “buggy boppers.” In four-player mode, players can even take control of the boppers.
- Tug of War is a frantic button-masher where opposing teams try to pull each other across a center line.
- Wizard’s Keep splits the screen into dual windows as wizards blast magical targets for points—shots in one view instantly affect the other, demanding quick aim and coordination.
- Down on the Line simulates an assembly line as players pass and sort color-coded packages across conveyors before time runs out.
- Handcar pits players in a race of rhythm and teamwork, pumping their way to victory on classic railway handcars.
With varied genres ranging from racing and shooting to coordination and reflex games, Party Mix offers a diverse and accessible party game experience well ahead of its time, cementing its place as one of the most ambitious and social titles on the Atari 2600.
There’s a playthrough of this title at 10:49 of
this video. It has a lot of fun games, and would be fun to revive separately or as part of a broader Starpath collection.