Turbo Sub (1991-)

• Developer: Entertainment Sciences

• Publisher: Atari

• Genre: Shooter

Turbo Sub for the Atari Lynx was developed by Entertainment Sciences and published by Atari Corporation in 1991. The game was an original title created specifically for the Lynx, designed to demonstrate the handheld’s ability to handle fast-paced action and detailed graphics. Unlike many other titles that were ports of arcade or console games, Turbo Sub was unique to the Lynx and focused on underwater combat and exploration. It did not see releases on other contemporary platforms, making it a standout entry in the handheld’s library.

The story of Turbo Sub casts players as the pilot of an advanced, high-speed submarine on a mission to navigate hostile underwater environments. Players are tasked with defeating enemy vessels, avoiding hazards, and exploring submerged tunnels and caverns. The game drew inspiration from submarine combat simulators and side-scrolling shooters of the late 1980s, blending strategic navigation with action-focused combat. The futuristic submarine design and weaponry added a technological flair to the underwater adventure, giving the game a distinctive visual and thematic identity.

Gameplay centers on guiding the submarine through multiple levels populated with enemy submarines, mines, and environmental obstacles. Players use torpedoes and other weapons while carefully maneuvering to avoid damage, with each stage becoming progressively more challenging through faster enemies and more complex underwater layouts. The Lynx version utilized the system’s color palette and smooth scrolling to create a sense of depth and motion, while power-ups and limited-use weapons added strategic variety. The combination of reflex-based action and tactical movement demanded quick thinking and careful planning from players.

The soundtrack on the Lynx featured dynamic and atmospheric music that matched the intensity of underwater combat, complemented by sound effects for torpedoes, explosions, and collisions that enhanced immersion. Turbo Sub did not have a prequel, nor did it inspire any sequels, remaining a standalone title within the Lynx lineup. Promotion emphasized the game’s high-speed action, intricate level design, and the Lynx’s graphical capabilities. Reception was generally positive, with critics praising its fluid visuals, engaging combat, and the challenge presented by underwater navigation, making Turbo Sub a memorable and distinctive action game for the Atari Lynx.

Images from MobyGames