Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Atari 2600
- Developers: U.S. Games
- Publishers: U.S. Games
Commando Raid is a classic arcade game released in 1982 by Data East. It is a vertically-scrolling shooter in which the player controls a gun emplacement at the bottom of the screen and must defend it from waves of enemy paratroopers, helicopters, and tanks. The game is known for its simple but addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and iconic graphics and sound effects.
Gameplay
The player controls a gun emplacement at the bottom of the screen. The gun can be moved left and right, and can fire in eight directions. The player must use the gun to shoot down enemy paratroopers, helicopters, and tanks.
Enemy paratroopers will drop from the sky and land on buildings. If three paratroopers land on a building, it will be destroyed. The player can also shoot the paratroopers before they land.
Enemy helicopters will fly across the screen and drop bombs. The player can shoot down the helicopters or shoot the bombs before they hit the ground.
Enemy tanks will drive across the screen and fire at the player’s gun emplacement. The player can shoot the tanks or shoot the shells they fire.
The player must also be aware of enemy aircraft that may appear at the top of the screen. These aircraft will drop bombs that can destroy the player’s gun emplacement. The player can shoot down the aircraft or shoot the bombs before they hit the ground.
Levels
Commando Raid has a total of 32 levels. The levels become increasingly difficult as the player progresses. The later levels feature more enemies, faster gameplay, and more challenging obstacles.
Graphics and sound
Commando Raid’s graphics are simple but iconic. The game’s characters and objects are all rendered in a blocky, pixelated style. The game’s sound effects are also simple but effective. The player’s gun emplacement makes a satisfying “pew-pew” sound when it fires, and the enemy helicopters make a distinctive “whirring” sound.
Legacy
Commando Raid was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was one of the most popular arcade games of the early 1980s, and it has been ported to numerous home computers and consoles. The game has also been cited as an influence on later shooters, such as Ikari Warriors and Metal Slug.
Tips for playing Commando Raid
Here are a few tips for playing Commando Raid:
- Prioritize shooting down enemy paratroopers. They are the most dangerous enemies in the game, as they can quickly destroy your buildings.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on the enemy aircraft. They can appear at any time and drop bombs that can destroy your gun emplacement.
- Use the cover of buildings to protect yourself from enemy fire.
- Don’t be afraid to use your special weapons. The homing missiles and napalm bombs can be very effective against large groups of enemies.
- Practice makes perfect. The more you play Commando Raid, the better you will become at it.
Conclusion
Commando Raid is a classic arcade game that is still a lot of fun to play today. It is a simple but challenging game that will test your reflexes and strategic thinking. If you are a fan of retro gaming, I highly recommend checking out Commando Raid.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
