Quartet

Quartet

Overview & History

Released by Sega in 1986, Quartet is an innovative run-and-gun arcade platformer that predated co-op staples like Gauntlet by emphasizing simultaneous four-player action. Set in a distant space-faring future, the storyline follows two interstellar bounty hunters, Edgar and Lee, alongside two android mercenaries, Marion and Joe, as they embark on a dangerous mission aboard a sprawling space station overrun by mutant alien lifeforms and heavily armed cyborg syndicates. The crew's objective is to systematically infiltrate eight complex mazelike sectors, eliminate the regional bosses, recover stolen sector keys, and safely reach the escape doors before time expires. Sega originally offered standard two-player cabinets alongside massive dedicated four-player setups featuring dual monitors, making it a distinct and vibrant fixture in mid-80s arcades.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike traditional linear shooters, Quartet challenges players with non-linear, multi-directional labyrinthine levels viewed from a fixed side-scrolling perspective. Players can freely walk, run, and jump across platforms, but the twist lies in the vertical movement: collecting a rare jetpack power-up allows temporary flight, granting access to upper ledges and secret ventilation shafts. Enemies drop vital door keys upon defeat, which are mandatory for unlocking bulkheads that block progress toward the exit. The game's frantic pacing requires constant management of a countdown timer and health meters. Destructible environmental elements hide score multipliers and extended firepower upgrades, turning each chaotic stage into a tactical puzzle where teamwork and efficient pathfinding are just as crucial as quick trigger fingers.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move
• Action Keys: Attack / Jump
• Enter: Start / Pause