I am Joust’s co-op partner.

The never ending quest for the earliest co-op video game continues this week.  Coupled with the quest is a touching, heartbreaking story from my childhood.  What more could you ask for?  Grab an ostrich and a lance as we check out arcade golden oldie Joust, this week's Co-Op Classic.  You may recall a previous Co-Op Classic column featuring Mario Bros.  It seems the "true" co-op gameplay of that game was inspired by that of Joust.  Released in 1982, Joust was a real standout from other arcade games of the time.  For one thing, the cabinet had truly distinctive art.  The biggest appeal though was the simultaneous two player gameplay.  Taking turns in Pac-man is all well and good, but sometimes, you and a friend want to play at the same time.  Joust allowed you to do just that.