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Loopz (USA) (Proto)

43 plays

Loopz - Puzzle Classic

ATARI Lynx
Puzzle
Prototype
5· 0 votes

Loopz is a puzzle game originally designed and programmed by Ian Upton for the Atari ST in 1989. It was picked up by Audiogenic, who arranged for Mindscape to publish it on computers and consoles in 1990. This particular build is a prototype for the ATARI Lynx, meaning it's an early, unfinished version of the handheld port that never saw a full retail release. The core gameplay revolves around dropping pieces onto a grid to form closed loops. Once a loop is completed, those blocks disappear and score points, often triggering chain reactions as new blocks fall. The challenge comes from managing the increasing speed and the limited space, requiring foresight to set up cascading clears. For collectors and puzzle fans, this prototype offers a rare look at how an established puzzle concept was adapted for a handheld system. It's a straightforward, no-frills take on the loop-forming idea, similar in spirit to early falling-block games but with its own twist. If you enjoy retro puzzle titles that emphasize pattern recognition and planning, this proto is worth a try for its historical curiosity.

GAME INFO

Platform: ATARI Lynx
Genre: Puzzle
Released: 1990
Players: 1
Region: USA
Version: Proto

How to play Loopz online

Getting Started

When you start Loopz, you'll see a grid and a piece appearing at the top. Use the D-Pad (Arrow Keys) to move the piece left or right, and press the A button (X key) to rotate it. Your goal is to place pieces so that they form a complete loop - any closed shape made of connected blocks. Once a loop is closed, those blocks will disappear and you'll earn points.

The game progresses in levels; each level increases the speed at which pieces fall and may introduce new piece shapes. The key strategy is to plan ahead and leave gaps where you can fit future pieces to create larger loops. If the pile reaches the top of the screen, the game ends. There's no story or timer - it's pure puzzle action focused on loop completion.

Since this is a prototype, the interface is minimal and in English. There are no complicated menus - just press Start to begin. Experiment with moving and rotating pieces to get a feel for the physics; the Lynx version handles similarly to the original computer versions but with a smaller screen.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: A button
S: B button
Q: Option 1
E: Option 2
Enter: Pause

Loopz FAQ

Is there anything iconic or memorable about Loopz?

Loopz is remembered as a clever puzzle game that predates many modern block-dropping titles. Its loop-formation mechanic, where you must complete closed shapes to clear blocks, was unique for its time and remains satisfying to pull off. The Atari ST original gained a small cult following, and the Lynx prototype is a rare piece of gaming history.

Is Loopz exclusive to ATARI Lynx or did it appear on other systems?

Loopz originally appeared on the Atari ST and was later ported to several platforms including the Amiga, Commodore 64, DOS, and consoles like the NES and Game Boy. The Lynx version exists only as a prototype and was never officially released, so it's not exclusive in the traditional sense but is unique to the Lynx as an unfinished build.

Which regions was Loopz released in?

The commercial releases of Loopz came out in North America and Europe across various platforms. The Lynx prototype is specifically a North American (USA) build, likely prepared for a potential US launch that never materialized. The original computer versions saw wider distribution in Europe as well.

All ATARI Lynx games