About the game
Asteroids is a classic vector-style space shooter where you pilot a small triangular ship in an asteroid field. You rotate the ship, thrust forward, and fire bullets to destroy asteroids. Large asteroids break into smaller ones when shot. The game ends when an asteroid hits your ship or you fly off-screen.
Originally released by Atari in 1979, Asteroids is one of the defining games of the golden arcade era. The wrap-around screen (leaving one edge reappears on the opposite side) and zero-gravity physics create a unique tactical experience that rewards precision over raw speed.
How to play
- Rotate your ship with ← / →, then thrust forward with ↑ or W to move.
- Fire bullets with Space to destroy asteroids.
- Large asteroids split into two medium ones when shot; medium ones split into two small ones.
- Destroy all asteroids to advance to the next wave. Each wave adds more rocks.
Controls
| Rotate left | ← or A |
| Rotate right | → or D |
| Thrust | ↑ or W |
| Fire | Space |
| Hyperspace (teleport) | Shift (random safe reposition) |
Five beginner tips
1. Thrust in short bursts
Zero gravity means you never stop moving. Tap thrust gently to avoid flying into an asteroid at full speed.
2. Destroy the big ones first
Large asteroids are unpredictable when they split. Clear them while you have room to dodge.
3. Use the wrap-around
If an asteroid is bearing down on you from the left, fly right — you will reappear on the left side, often behind it.
4. Don't over-steer
Small, precise rotations are better than spinning wildly. Aim, then fire.
5. Hyperspace is a last resort
Hyperspace teleports you to a random spot. It sometimes lands you inside an asteroid. Use it only when death is certain.
Why you'll like it
Asteroids is pure spatial awareness. The combination of zero-gravity movement, wrap-around physics, and splitting asteroids creates a unique puzzle-action hybrid that no modern game has quite replicated.
Frequently asked questions
Does the game end?
Technically no — waves keep getting harder. In practice, most runs end around wave 5-10.
What is hyperspace?
Press Shift to teleport to a random safe spot. It is risky but can save you from certain death.
Can I play with a gamepad?
The keyboard controls work best. Some browsers support gamepad input natively.
Game credit: Open-source Asteroids implementation under the MIT licence by dmcinnes.