Nintendo Entertainment System · Strategy
Archon
| System | Nintendo Entertainment System |
|---|---|
| Released | 1989 |
| Genre | Strategy |
| Developer | Free Fall Associates |
| Publisher | Activision |
| Players | 1–2 players |
| Commitment | Weekend project (Roughly 6–20 hours) |
| ESRB | E |
| Legacy | Deep cut |
Archon is a strategy game released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, developed by Free Fall Associates and published by Activision.
It landed about 4 years into the NES's life. Other notable NES releases from 1989 include Mother, Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse and DuckTales.
Archon supports up to 2 players, whether that means taking turns or going head-to-head.
Pick it if…
- you want to think and plan
- you have time for a weekend project (roughly 6–20 hours)
- you have a friend to play against
- you've played the NES hits and want something less obvious
Maybe skip it if…
- you want quick action without planning ahead
What playing Archon is like
Strategy games reward planning over reflexes: command armies, manage resources and outthink opponents on turn-based or real-time battlefields.
Tip for newcomers: Read the manual or tutorial if one exists: retro strategy games often assume you know their rules. Save between missions.
Archon cheats & codes
8 codes on file (Game Genie, Emulator memory codes). Here are a few Game Genie codes to start with:
| Unrestricted Ground Movement | AASSIEUT |
|---|---|
| Unrestricted Flying Movement | AAKIGAGA |
If you like Archon, the Matrix also picks…
Cosmic Wars Deep cut
Defender of the Crown Deep cut
Desert Commander Deep cut
Genghis Khan Deep cut
King of Kings Deep cut
Rampart Deep cut
Playing NES games today
NES games are short on paper but often famously tough, so expect to replay levels and learn patterns. Many first-party titles are available through Nintendo Switch Online, original cartridges remain easy to find, and you can play backups of games you own in an emulator such as Rec0m88.
Archon FAQ
When did Archon come out on the NES?
Archon was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1989.
Who made Archon?
It was developed by Free Fall Associates and published by Activision.
Is Archon multiplayer?
Yes. Archon supports up to 2 players.
How long does Archon take to play?
As a strategy game, Archon typically falls into the "Weekend project" category: roughly 6–20 hours. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.
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.