Wizard of Wor , released in 1977, is an arcade shooter played from a top-down point of view. The player controls a "Worrior" who is trapped in a dungeon. The goal is to earn as many points as possible by shooting the numerous enemy creatures which wander about the maze-like corridors.
The game features various enemy creatures with different speeds and behaviors, including those that can shoot darts at the player or disappear temporarily. At the bottom of the screen, the player has a radar that can be used to locate invisible enemies.
Completing a maze earns the player a Worluk, which moves rapidly and must be destroyed before it escapes. Destroying the creature unlocks a double score dungeon with increased point values for creatures. The Wizard of Wor himself may also appear, teleporting around the maze and offering a high-scoring reward to destroy him.
The game can be played solo or with two players simultaneously, with cooperative play encouraging teamwork against enemy hordes. However, shooting an opponent's player grants a large score bonus, potentially fostering competitive play.