In Destroyer, released in 1986, players command a Fletcher-class U.S. Navy vessel during World War II, engaging in a range of real-time naval operations across the Pacific. Missions include submarine hunting, island bombardment, convoy escort, rescue operations, and air defense, each requiring a blend of tactical awareness and quick reflexes. The game uses multiple ship stations—such as navigation, sonar, radar, and weapons control—each accessed via keyboard and joystick. Players can only control one station at a time, so strategic screen-switching is crucial. Enemy attacks can damage specific systems, temporarily disabling or impairing key functions like steering or weapons targeting. Real-time damage reports and repair sequences add an additional layer of tension. Blending action and simulation elements, Destroyer offered one of the more immersive naval experiences of its era, balancing arcade-style gameplay with thoughtful mission design and layered systems management.

True to Epyx’s style, there’s a 20-page manual to compliment this title that goes into great depth about what a naval destroyer actually is, and how to conduct a naval battle.  A very highly-rated title from 1986, we like the idea of bringing back some complex strategy to an action-game player.  The challenge now would be to integrate the manual into the gameplay in a meaningful way, but that’s what great game design is all about.  If you’d like to license and remake this title, please reach out.