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NFL Football (USA, Europe)

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What is NFL Football?

ATARI Lynx
Sports
Unknown
5· 0 votes

NFL Football is an American football video game originally developed by Mattel for the Intellivision system in 1979. This version on the Atari Lynx reproduces that classic experience, bringing the sport to a handheld format. Despite the Lynx branding, the game itself is the same Intellivision title, likely presented via emulation or a direct port. It stands as one of the earliest football video games to include a playbook, a notable innovation for its time.

Players control a football team through a standard four-quarter game. The core loop involves selecting plays from a playbook, then executing them against either a computer opponent or another player. Each play determines the movement and actions of the offensive and defensive units. The game does not use official NFL team names or player names, but it was licensed by the NFL and features the league's logo in its packaging. The gameplay is turn-based, with players switching sides after each down or score change.

Today, this title is worth a look for retro sports fans interested in the early history of football video games. Its playbook mechanic was groundbreaking for 1979 and influenced later titles. The Lynx version provides a convenient way to experience this piece of gaming history on a portable system, though it remains a very simple affair by modern standards. If you enjoy classic sports games or want to see where the genre started, NFL Football is a honest, straightforward example of its era.

GAME INFO

Platform: ATARI Lynx
Genre: Sports
Publisher: Mattel
Developer: Mattel
Released: 1979
Players: 2
Region: USA, Europe

How to play NFL Football online

Getting Started

When you first boot up NFL Football, you will likely see a title screen with the option to start a game. Press Start (Enter) to begin. The game supports two players, so if you are playing alone, you will control both teams or choose a mode where the computer controls one side. Use the Select (V) button to toggle options if available.

The core loop is selecting a play from a small playbook, then watching the action unfold. After each down, the game pauses for you to pick the next play. On offense, you choose a running or passing play; on defense, you choose a defensive formation. The D-Pad moves a cursor to highlight your choice, and confirm with X. The computer then simulates the result based on the matchup. Scoring occurs via touchdowns, extra points, and field goals.

Important tips: The game does not have a save function, so plan to finish a full game in one sitting. There are no timeouts or complex strategies - just pick plays and watch. The controls are simple, but learning which plays work against certain defenses adds depth. If you are new to the game, experiment with different plays to see what works. The graphics are minimal, but the gameplay is quick and addictive for its time.

CONTROLS

Controls

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

NFL Football FAQ

Who developed NFL Football?

Mattel developed the game for its Intellivision system. It was released in 1979, making it one of the earliest football video games from a major toy company.

Does NFL Football have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

Yes, the game supports two-player head-to-head action. Each player controls one team and selects plays in turn. There is no cooperative mode where players are on the same side.

Can players save progress in NFL Football?

No, the game lacks any save function. A full four-quarter game must be completed in a single session. There are no passwords or battery-backed memory.

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