Protector is a 1981 scrolling shooter for Atari 8-bit computers programmed by Mike Potter[1] and distributed first by Crystalware and then Synapse Software.

The gameplay of Protector is inspired by Defender, with the player controlling a rocket fighter of similar design and the general goal being to pick up civilians from the ground to protect them from the enemy.

To save them from this threat, the player must fly over each of the people to pick them up, then carries them past the volcano to the City of New Hope.

[2] The mission takes place on a single large side-scrolling map, several times wider than the physical display.

His first product was a set of four games, Imperial Walker, Nim, Gun Fight, and Auto Racer, sold on consignment at local computer stores.

While visiting the Electronic Fantasy store in Cupertino, the manager Dave Stillings, mentioned he might want to get in contact with Crystalware in Gilroy.

"[4] Creative Computing Video & Arcade Games in 1983 stated that the Atari 8-bit version of Protector's "animation is mirror smooth", praising its horizontally scrolling graphics.