Tac/Scan 2600 box art

Atari 2600 · Simulation / Strategy

Tac/Scan

Deep cut

SystemAtari 2600
Released1982
GenreSimulation, Strategy, Shooter
DeveloperSEGA
PublisherSEGA
Players1 player
CommitmentQuick session (Under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
LegacyDeep cut · legacy score 4

Tac/Scan is a simulation game released in 1982 for the Atari 2600, developed by SEGA. It blends simulation, strategy and shooter elements.

It landed about 5 years into the 2600's life. Other notable 2600 releases from 1982 include Custer's Revenge, River Raid and Haunted House. Among the 13 2600 simulation games in our database, it ranks #4 by legacy score.

SEGA also made Pengo, Zaxxon and Congo Bongo for the 2600.

Tac/Scan is a single-player game, so it's one to enjoy at your own pace.

Pick it if…

  • you want to think and plan
  • you have time for a quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
  • you've played the 2600 hits and want something less obvious

Maybe skip it if…

  • you want clear goals and a defined ending
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing Tac/Scan is like

Simulation games model a system and let you play inside it, whether that means building a city, flying a plane, raising a pet or running a business.

Tip for newcomers: Simulations are often open-ended. Set yourself small goals and enjoy experimenting with the systems.

Tac/Scan gameplay screenshot on 2600
In-game screenshot (2600)

Tac/Scan walkthroughs & guides

Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for Tac/Scan.

If you like Tac/Scan, the Matrix also picks…

Playing 2600 games today

Most 2600 games are built for short, score-chasing sessions, which makes them perfect for a quick nostalgia hit. Original hardware is cheap and plentiful, the Atari 2600+ reissue plays original cartridges on modern TVs, and official collections such as Atari 50 bundle many first-party classics.

Tac/Scan FAQ

When did Tac/Scan come out on the 2600?

Tac/Scan was released for the Atari 2600 in 1982.

Who made Tac/Scan?

It was developed by SEGA.

Is Tac/Scan multiplayer?

No. Tac/Scan is a single-player game.

How long does Tac/Scan take to play?

As a simulation game, Tac/Scan typically falls into the "Quick session" category: under an hour, or endless arcade fun. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about Tac/Scan on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

Not sure? Let the Matrix pick for you