Overview
Black spy versus white spy. Based on Antonio Prohías’s wordless MAD Magazine comic, Spy vs Spy created one of gaming’s first competitive split-screen experiences. Both players explored the same embassy simultaneously, setting traps, collecting items, and trying to escape first—or ensuring the other spy never escaped at all.
Fast facts
- Developer: First Star Software.
- Designer: Mike Riedel.
- Source: MAD Magazine comic strip.
- Innovation: Simultaneous split-screen.
Gameplay mechanics
| Element |
Function |
| Split-screen |
Both spies visible always |
| Trapulator |
Trap-setting interface |
| Item collection |
Briefcase, passport, money, key |
| Time limit |
Airport departure deadline |
Trap types
| Trap |
Effect |
| Bomb |
Explosive in furniture |
| Spring |
Launches spy |
| Bucket |
Falls on head |
| Gun |
Triggers when door opens |
| Electrocution |
Water + live wire |
Trap counters
| Trap |
Defence |
| Bomb |
Wire cutters |
| Spring |
? (varies) |
| Bucket |
Umbrella |
| Gun |
Shield |
Strategic depth
| Tactic |
Application |
| Trap placement |
High-traffic areas |
| Item priority |
Collect before trapping |
| Combat timing |
Direct confrontation |
| Route planning |
Efficient searching |
Series entries
| Title |
Year |
Feature |
| Spy vs Spy |
1984 |
Original |
| Spy vs Spy II |
1985 |
Island setting |
| Spy vs Spy III |
1988 |
Arctic theme |
See also