Off the Wall (1991 video game)

Gameplay

The objective is to score points by destroying square blocks across a never-ending series of levels. The player controls a paddle with an analog knob or joystick, moving it along one edge of the playfield. A ball bounces off walls and the paddle; hitting a block destroys it unless it is indestructible. A square exit appears on screen; directing the ball into it destroys all remaining blocks, awards bonus points, and advances to the next level. The ball occasionally splits in two, and in multiplayer games three balls may appear simultaneously. The player can put spin on the ball, causing a curved trajectory. A life is lost when the last ball moves past the paddle, though the game sometimes grants a second chance. The game ends when all lives are gone. Later levels introduce moving blocks, powerups, indestructible blocks, bombs, parachuting or flying blocks, objects that alter ball speed and trajectory, and guns that shrink paddles. Some levels may be skipped depending on player count and exit placement. In multiplayer, a bonus round periodically pits players against each other in a Pong clone; the winner earns an extra life.