Tempest | Tempest Tubes Multigame Free Play and High Score Save Kit
Product information "Tempest | Tempest Tubes Multigame Free Play and High Score Save Kit"
Tempest | Tempest Tubes Multigame Free Play and High Score Save Kit
Upgrade your original Atari Tempest arcade PCB with Tempest and Tempest Tubes, permanent Top 8 high score saving, Free Play, attract sounds, level selection, menu-driven settings, and optional Wi-Fi leaderboard support.
This HighScoreSaves multigame kit is designed specifically for original Atari Tempest hardware, allowing you to add useful modern features while continuing to use the original PCB, controls, and vector arcade system.
Tempest • Tempest Tubes
Switch between Tempest and Tempest Tubes while continuing to use the original Atari Tempest PCB.
Permanently stores the Top 8 scores with initials using reliable serial EEPROM memory.
Start gameplay at supported levels up to level 81 with an extended 60-second selection period.
Choose local high score saving or add compatible online leaderboard support.
What the Tempest Multigame Kit Adds
The Tempest Multigame Free Play and High Score Save Kit adds modern convenience features to an original Atari Tempest PCB without replacing the cabinet's dedicated vector game hardware with an emulation or multicade system.
In addition to permanent high score storage and Free Play, the kit adds Tempest Tubes, adjustable attract sounds, menu-driven settings, expanded level selection, score backup and restore, and other features designed for a regularly played original Tempest machine.
Compatibility and What to Check Before Ordering
- PCB: Designed for original Atari Tempest arcade PCBs.
- Processor: Uses the original 6502 processor or an optional compatible replacement processor.
- Processor Socket: The 6502 location must have the proper 40-pin socket for kit installation.
- Cabinets: Supports upright and cocktail Tempest cabinets.
- Vector Hardware: Designed to operate with the original Atari Tempest vector arcade hardware.
Inspect your PCB before ordering. If the original 6502 processor is soldered directly to the board instead of installed in a socket, a proper socket must be installed before the kit can be fitted.
Choose Your Tempest Multigame Kit Configuration
Select either a Standard Save Kit or a Wi-Fi Enabled Kit when ordering.
Standard Save Kit
Saves scores permanently on the arcade PCB and includes the core Tempest multigame, Free Play, level-select, attract-sound, and configuration features without online connectivity.
Wi-Fi Enabled Kit
Includes the same local score-saving features and adds support for uploading qualifying scores to the HighScoreSaves online leaderboard through a compatible 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
An optional processor and/or 40-pin socket may also be selected when required for your PCB.
Game Selection and Settings Menu
Kit functions are accessed using the cabinet's Player 1 Start button, so normal game selection and configuration do not require additional external controls.
- Select a Game: During attract mode, hold the Player 1 Start button for approximately four seconds to enter the game-selection menu.
- Open the Settings Menu: Power the cabinet off, hold the Player 1 Start button, power the cabinet back on, and release the button when prompted.
Tempest Multigame Kit Features
- Two Games: Tempest and Tempest Tubes
- Permanent High Score Saving: Stores the Top 8 scores with initials
- Serial EEPROM: Reliable nonvolatile high score storage without a battery
- Separate Score Tables: Supports separate score tables for 2, 3, 4, or 5 lives
- Free Play: Play without coins while retaining traditional coin-up operation when desired
- Attract Sounds: Adjustable at 25%, 50%, or 100%
- On-Screen Settings: Configure supported game settings through the kit menu
- Level Select: Start gameplay at supported levels up to level 81
- Extended Level Select: Provides a 60-second level-selection period instead of the original shorter selection time
- ROM Saver: Original program ROMs may be removed and stored
- Backup and Restore: Back up saved high scores and restore them later
- Reset Function: Restart gameplay without cycling cabinet power
- Fast Boot: Starts without a long initialization delay
- Stealth Mode: Boot directly into gameplay for a more stock arcade presentation
- Copyright Display: Select original Atari or HighScoreSaves branding
- Latest Supported ROM Revision: Includes the latest supported Tempest ROM revision
- Optional Wi-Fi: Compatible kits can upload qualifying scores to the online leaderboard
Games Included
Tempest
Play the original Atari Tempest game on the original arcade hardware while adding permanent score saving, Free Play, expanded level selection, and configurable kit features.
Tempest Tubes
Switch to Tempest Tubes for alternate tube layouts and an additional Tempest gameplay variation while continuing to use the original Atari hardware platform.
Installation Notes
- Socketed 6502 Required: The kit installs at the 6502 processor location on the original Tempest PCB.
- No Soldering on a Properly Socketed PCB: If the processor is already installed in the correct socket, no soldering is required for normal kit installation.
- Unsocketed PCB: If the 6502 is soldered directly to the board, a 40-pin socket must be installed before fitting the kit.
- Orientation Matters: Follow the installation guide and verify processor and kit orientation before powering the cabinet.
Optional Wi-Fi and Online High Scores
Choose the Wi-Fi Enabled version if you want your compatible Tempest cabinet to upload qualifying scores to the HighScoreSaves online leaderboard in addition to saving scores locally.
Wi-Fi kits use a compatible 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. The Standard kit does not require a network connection and keeps scores locally on the kit.
Tempest Multigame Free Play and High Score Save Kit FAQ
Which games are included?
The kit includes Tempest and Tempest Tubes.
How many high scores does the kit save?
The kit permanently stores the Top 8 high scores with initials.
Does installation require soldering?
No soldering is required when the Tempest PCB already has the proper socket at the 6502 processor location. If the processor is soldered directly to the PCB, a socket must be installed before the kit can be fitted.
What processor does the kit use?
The kit uses a 6502 processor. You can use the compatible processor from the original PCB or select an optional processor when ordering.
How do I select Tempest or Tempest Tubes?
During attract mode, hold the Player 1 Start button for approximately four seconds to enter the game-selection menu.
How do I enter the settings menu?
Power the cabinet off, hold the Player 1 Start button, power the cabinet on, and release the button when prompted.
Can I select a starting level?
Yes. The kit supports starting-level selection up to level 81 and provides an extended 60-second selection period.
Can I still use coins?
Yes. The kit supports both Free Play and traditional coin-up operation.
Does it work in upright and cocktail Tempest cabinets?
Yes. Both upright and cocktail cabinet configurations are supported.
What is the difference between Standard and Wi-Fi Enabled versions?
Both versions save scores locally and include the core kit features. The Wi-Fi Enabled version also supports uploading qualifying scores to the online leaderboard through a compatible 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
Where can I find the installation guide?
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2 reviews
October 19, 2025 3:28 PM
Tempest Kit
As with all of my games, this was one of the first things I do when I add a game to my collection. High score saves, free play and attract mode/sounds, plus the addition of Tempest Tubes! A must have for any Tempest owner!
October 17, 2025 6:02 PM
Get this!
Great kit adding new Tempest levels with the Tubes addition. Very easy to install and use.