Battle City

As we navigate the madness that is 2020, the games that this year has treated us too have been some of the most technologically advanced and well-received titles of all time. Titles such as The Last of Us: Part 2 or Final Fantasy VII. Though, we are taking a moment to look back in time to a 1985 classic that would criminally never receive a release outside of Japan. The title in question is NES hit, Battle City.

This game plays most similarly to modern top-down titles like Bomberman or The The Binding of Isaac. Though has that recognisable pixelated style synonymous with the era. Thing games like Pac-man or Dig-Dug but with military-grade tanks at your disposal.

Attack and defend

The gameplay of this title has a lot of similarities to Space Invaders in its approach. Players will have a set number of tanks to destroy to clear a level and will have to contend with different textured blockades with varying attributes. All the while trying to shoot down your targets and simultaneously defend your base.

The depth that these barricades provide to the gameplay is rather impressive for the time of release. Not to mention the power-up system that gives more power to the player which will be needed to succeed in the more challenging stages of the game.

Classic Arcade gaming

The game simplicity works in its favour. With a low entry difficulty level, basically, any player can jump on and play this game without any need for tutorials or training. It’s all very intuitive and has a learn as you go kind of vibe. If you get shot, you lose a life. Do that enough you get a game over screen. Shoot enough tanks, you proceed to the next stage. It’s rudimentary and yet it is still fun in the present day.

Some variation

Battle City does its best to shake up the gameplay as the player advances in stages and becomes more skilled. The tank frequency increases, the terrain placement becomes more of a challenge to navigate effectively. Plus tanks start taking an extra hit to go down, which sounds like no big deal but when you’re cornered and need to act fast, this makes a perilous situation even more difficult to escape.

A lost gem

Everything about Battle City screams arcade classic and it seems unthinkable that this title would never have its time to shine in the western world. The game would have a respectable market share in Japan upon release but it seems criminal that this title didn’t get a run out on the global stage. It is thought that the Cold War had something to do with the title not making it to the likes of the US or Europe, although there is no concrete evidence of this.

Pros

• Varied and progressive gameplay
• Classic arcade fun
• Retro art style done right

Cons

• Hard to get a copy
• Gameplay can become predictable after a while

Battle City, developed and published by Namco, is a classic tank battle game that holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Originally released in 1985, Battle City has stood the test of time and continues to captivate players with its addictive gameplay, charming visuals, and simple yet engaging story. Let's dive into the details and explore why Battle City remains an iconic title in the gaming world.

Gameplay

At its core, Battle City offers straightforward and addictive gameplay that keeps players coming back for more. Controlling a tank, players navigate through maze-like battlegrounds, taking on enemy tanks and defending their base. The controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing for precise movements and strategic positioning. The game's difficulty gradually increases as new enemy tanks and obstacles are introduced, challenging players to improve their skills and adapt their strategies.

What makes Battle City truly enjoyable is its multiplayer mode, allowing two players to join forces and tackle the enemy tanks cooperatively. The cooperative play adds an extra layer of excitement and encourages teamwork and coordination between players. Whether playing alone or with a friend, Battle City provides countless hours of fun tank-blasting action.

I’ve found this to be a must play experience for those looking to enjoy some of that classic gaming brilliance that we all know and love from a time long past. If you are looking to add an oldie but a goldy to your collection, this is the one to go for.

Visuals

Despite its release over three decades ago, Battle City's visuals have a timeless charm. The game features simple and colorful graphics that perfectly capture the essence of retro gaming. The tanks, barriers, and terrain are well-designed, and the animations are smooth and fluid. The visual clarity enhances gameplay, allowing players to easily distinguish between various elements on the battlefield. Although lacking in intricate details compared to modern games, Battle City's visuals have a nostalgic appeal that transports players back to the golden era of gaming.

Fans of World of Tanks and Kronis Rift may notice a few similarities between this game and those.

Story

While Battle City may not have an elaborate narrative, its minimalistic story adds a layer of motivation and purpose to the gameplay. As players progress through the levels, they encounter increasingly challenging enemy tanks, each with its own unique characteristics. The objective is to protect the player's base from enemy invasion and ultimately become the ultimate tank commander. Although simple, the story provides a satisfying sense of progression and accomplishment as players conquer each level and overcome formidable foes.

Its simple and that is something that few games manage to make work without feeling like something is lacking, but truth be told, this game has everything that it needs to have to work perfectly.

Pros

• A charming game with nostalgic visuals
• Has some great cooperative gameplay

Cons

• Lacks the gameplay diversity of more modern titles