Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Taito
- Publishers: Ocean Software, Taito
Operation Thunderbolt: A Mission of Hostage Rescue and Explosive Action
Released in arcades in 1988, Operation Thunderbolt is a thrilling sequel to the classic light gun shooter Operation Wolf. Developed by Taito and released by Sega, Operation Thunderbolt takes players on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue hostages from a ruthless terrorist organization.
A Hostage Situation Takes Flight
The game’s story begins with the hijacking of an airliner en route from Paris to Boston. The terrorists responsible threaten to kill all the hostages on board unless their imprisoned comrades are released. Instead of reaching its intended destination, the airliner is forced to land in Kalubya, Africa, where the hostages are hidden in various locations.
The authorities call upon the services of two elite soldiers, the heroes from Operation Wolf, to rescue the hostages and neutralize the terrorist threat. This time, however, the heroes are not alone. They are joined by a pair of female operatives, codenamed Fox and Viper, who provide additional firepower and support.
Eight Missions of Mayhem
Operation Thunderbolt consists of eight challenging missions, each with its unique objectives and gameplay mechanics. Players must navigate through dense jungles, treacherous mountain passes, and urban environments, all while fighting off hordes of enemy soldiers, tanks, and helicopters.
The gameplay varies throughout the missions. In some levels, players control a jeep or boat, while in others, they must navigate on foot. Players have a limited supply of ammunition and rocket bombs, but they can replenish their supplies by shooting down crates that parachute from the sky or by destroying certain environmental objects.
Strategic Shooting and Explosive Action
Operation Thunderbolt’s gameplay is characterized by its fast-paced shooting action and strategic elements. Players must carefully manage their ammunition and rocket bombs, as well as time their shots to maximize their effectiveness. The game also features destructible environments, allowing players to use their surroundings to their advantage.
In addition to the standard enemies, players must also contend with powerful bosses at the end of each mission. These bosses require a combination of strategy and firepower to defeat.
A Classic Arcade Experience
Operation Thunderbolt is a classic arcade game that offers an intense and exhilarating experience. Its fast-paced shooting action, strategic gameplay, and memorableボスfights have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. The game’s graphics and sound effects are also top-notch for its time, creating a truly immersive and engaging experience.
Legacy and Impact
Operation Thunderbolt was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a popular arcade game to this day. The game’s success spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Operation Wolf 3 and Operation Eagle.
Operation Thunderbolt’s influence can also be seen in modern shooters, such as the Call of Duty and Battlefield series. The game’s emphasis on fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and destructible environments has helped to define the modern shooter genre.
Conclusion
Operation Thunderbolt is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and challenge players today. Its fast-paced shooting action, strategic gameplay, and explosive set pieces make it a must-play for fans of arcade shooters and action games in general. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Operation Thunderbolt is sure to provide an unforgettable gaming experience.
Review Score
8/10
