Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Platform
- Platforms: Arcade, PlayStation, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Capcom
- Publishers: Capcom
Captain Commando: A Nostalgic Trip to the Golden Age of Beat ‘Em Ups
Released in 1991 by Capcom, Captain Commando is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that takes players on a thrilling journey through a futuristic city overrun by hordes of alien invaders. As the titular Captain Commando, a superhero originally conceived as a fictional spokesman for Capcom USA, players must team up with three other heroes to restore order and defeat the evil mastermind behind the invasion.
Gameplay: A Symphony of Fisticuffs and Mecha Mayhem
Captain Commando’s gameplay is a perfect blend of classic beat ’em up mechanics and innovative features. Players can choose from four unique characters, each with their own strengths and abilities:
- Captain Commando: A well-rounded fighter with a powerful punch and a trusty projectile weapon.
- Ginzu the Ninja: A swift and agile ninja with lightning-fast attacks and the ability to throw shurikens.
- Mack the Knife: A cyborg with enhanced strength and a razor-sharp blade for an arm.
- Baby Head: A diminutive but powerful fighter with a devastating headbutt and the ability to summon a giant robot.
One of the most unique aspects of Captain Commando is the inclusion of mecha suits scattered throughout the stages. These giant robots can be piloted by the players, providing them with increased firepower and protection. The mechas can also be used to perform powerful special attacks, such as firing rockets or unleashing a devastating laser beam.
Co-op Multiplayer: A Shared Adventure
Captain Commando truly shines when played with friends in co-op mode. Up to four players can team up to take on the alien hordes, coordinating their attacks and strategies to overcome the challenging levels. The game’s difficulty scales dynamically based on the number of players, ensuring a balanced experience for all.
Story: A Tale of Heroes and Villainy
Captain Commando’s story is a classic tale of good versus evil. The game takes place in the year 2026, where the once-peaceful Earth has been invaded by an alien force led by the evil General Scumocide. The Captain and his team of heroes must travel across the city, battling hordes of aliens and defeating Scumocide’s powerful minions to restore peace.
Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Aural Treat
Captain Commando’s graphics are a testament to the artistic talents of Capcom’s development team. The game’s vibrant colors and detailed sprites bring the futuristic city and its alien inhabitants to life. The animations are fluid and expressive, capturing the impact of every punch, kick, and explosion.
The game’s sound design is equally impressive. The soundtrack features a mix of catchy tunes and intense sound effects that enhance the gameplay and create a sense of atmosphere. The voice acting, while limited, adds personality to the characters and helps to convey the story.
Legacy: A Beat ‘Em Up Legend
Captain Commando was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among fans of the beat ’em up genre. The game’s innovative features, such as the inclusion of mecha suits and four-player co-op, helped to set it apart from its contemporaries.
Captain Commando has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation 2. It has also been included in several Capcom compilation releases, ensuring that new generations of gamers can experience its timeless appeal.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
Captain Commando is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that has stood the test of time. Its engaging gameplay, memorable characters, and innovative features make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of beat ’em ups, Captain Commando is a game that will provide hours of nostalgic fun.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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