Commando (1985)

by Christopher July 26, 2020

written by Christopher July 26, 2020 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1985
Genres: Shooter
Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 7800, Atari ST/STE, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Commodore Plus/4, DOS, Family Computer, FM-7, Intellivision, MSX, Nintendo Entertainment System, PC-8800 Series, ZX Spectrum
Developers: Capcom
Publishers: Activision, ASCII Corporation, Atari Corporation, Data East USA, Elite Systems, INTV Corporation, Playtronic

Commando (1985): A Nostalgic Journey into Arcade Mayhem

Released in 1985, Commando is an iconic arcade game that defined the run-and-gun genre. Developed by Capcom, the game quickly gained popularity for its intense action, challenging gameplay, and memorable characters. Players take control of a super-tough commando tasked with single-handedly infiltrating enemy territory and rescuing prisoners of war.

Gameplay: A Thrilling Run-and-Gun Adventure

Commando is a side-scrolling shooter where players must navigate through a series of levels, eliminating hordes of enemy soldiers. Armed with a standard rifle and a limited supply of grenades, the commando must strategically maneuver through diverse terrain, including forests, rivers, and bridges.

The game’s controls are simple yet effective. Players use a joystick to move the commando and buttons to shoot and throw grenades. Grenades are particularly useful for taking out groups of enemies or destroying obstacles.

Enemies: A Rogue’s Gallery of Nazi Foes

Commando features a wide variety of enemy types, each with unique abilities and attack patterns. From regular foot soldiers to bazooka-wielding heavy gunners, flamethrowers, and knife-throwing ninjas, players must adapt their strategies to overcome each challenge.

The game also includes boss battles against powerful enemy commanders. These encounters require careful planning and execution, as the bosses have unique strengths and weaknesses.

Levels: A Journey Through War-Torn Landscapes

Commando takes players across a diverse range of levels, each with its own distinct visual style and gameplay elements. From dense forests to treacherous mountain passes and fortified bunkers, the game’s environments are as varied as they are challenging.

Each level is filled with hidden paths, secret areas, and destructible objects. Players are encouraged to explore their surroundings and experiment with different tactics to find the most effective way to complete each mission.

Legacy: An Arcade Classic That Stands the Test of Time

Commando was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game’s intense action, challenging gameplay, and memorable characters made it a favorite among arcade enthusiasts. It has since been ported to numerous home platforms, allowing players to experience the Commando magic on their own consoles and computers.

The game’s legacy extends beyond its initial arcade release. Commando has inspired countless other run-and-gun shooters, including Metal Slug, Contra, and Broforce. Its influence can also be seen in modern first-person shooters, such as Call of Duty and Battlefield.

Commando Today: A Timeless Classic for Retro Gaming Fans

While Commando may not possess the graphical prowess or online multiplayer features of modern shooters, its classic gameplay and nostalgic charm continue to attract players today. The game is available on a variety of retro gaming platforms, including arcade cabinets, emulators, and retro consoles.

For those who grew up with Commando in the arcades, revisiting the game is a chance to relive their childhood memories. For younger gamers, Commando offers a glimpse into the golden age of arcade gaming, where simple mechanics and intense action reigned supreme.

Conclusion

Commando (1985) is a timeless classic that deserves its place among the pantheon of great arcade games. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and memorable characters have captivated generations of players. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Commando is a must-play experience that will provide hours of adrenaline-pumping entertainment.

Review Score

8/10

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Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.