Bionic Commando

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a game by Capcom, and Minakuchi Engineering Co
Genre: Action
Platforms: XBox 360, PC, Playstation 3, Arcade, GameBoy Color, NESNES, GameBoy
Editor Rating: 7.8/10, based on 6 reviews, 9 reviews are shown
User Rating: 8.0/10 - 2 votes
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See also: Beat 'em-Up, Retro Games

The original bionic Commando was, and remains, bloody brilliant It's a piece of 2D platforming magnificence, with a chap packing an extendable appendage (his arm) that may have been as tough as old boots that've been swimming in crude oil for the last year and a half, but there's no denying it was a cruelly overlooked gem. One that glowed brightly too.

Armed Assault

This long-awaited sequel dispenses with, well, very little that made the original so fandabbydosey. Remaining is a chap who has the ridiculous ability to attach a long grappling hook arm thing to far-in-the-distance objects. As is the rock bloody hard difficult level.

In the modern gaming world of tightly packed shop shelves, and obsessions with immediate excitement, Bionic Commando flies in the face of the trend by offering up one of the drabbest looking and ridiculously tedious opening sections witnessed anywhere since I fell asleep attempting to watch an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

This isn't necessarily a horrifically bad start to proceedings. It's just so boring in comparison to the rest of the game. You're sadly not packing the extendable limb, which leaves you slowly meandering through identikit corridors, blasting away idiotic enemies with what sounds like a pea shooter. Thankfully the game comes to life once you're out in the game world.

Once you're a fully fledged swinger, after a brief piece of tediously dull storytelling involving the government being arses, things start to get good. Flinging yourself around the landscape is a breeze with a handy little icon displaying exactly where your arm will attach. And its all coloured according to whether your appendage can reach its desired target or not.

Attach and you've two choices: you can go Spider-Man and use your momentum to toss your body from point to point hopefully getting enough inertia to reach the next platform. That said regular deaths will still be a regular occurrence for even the most hardened of platforming fan. The game's hefty difficulty setting, when coming up against the variety of enemies on offer, means that any force consisting of more than a pair of human opponents will always be a tricky prospect. Particularly as your initial weapon - the one that I sounds like a pea shooter - doesn't even pack the ability to injure that toy offers. And head shots are nearly impossible til make. It's possible the crapness of the firearm is to force you to throw enemies around with your bionic arm. (Which is immense fun incidentally.)

The mediocrity continues with the I technical achievements. Or lack of. Loading screens crop up too often, and they linger just those few seconds longer than you can truly cope with, Which could sort of be understandable if this was a GTA-esque style huge game world that we're getting to explore.

And that's what Bionic Commando is: instead of a series brought bang up-to-date with brand new features combined with good old fashioned '80s gaming brilliance, we have a decent enough title packing enough flaws to leave a pretty hollow feeling in the end. A bit like swinging.

Download Bionic Commando

XBox 360

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
PC

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
Playstation 3

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
Arcade

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
GBC

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
NES

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP
  • P-200, 32 MB RAM
Gameboy

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP

Game Reviews

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Available: September 1992
  • No. of Levels: 16
  • Theme: Action

WORLD CONQUEST HAS BEGUN...

The evil Doraize army has just initiated the Albatross Project, a plot to dominate the entire planet. In response, the Federal States sent out Super Joe, an expert in guerrilla warfare. They have lost all communications with him - now the government will send you, Rad Spencer. You are a Bionic Commando, a powerful one-man arsenal capable of wiping out entire armies. This is exactly what you must do. Can you save Super Joe, and stop the Albatross Project once and for all?

Bionic Commando is beautifully translated onto the GameBoy with incredible graphics. All the levels, weapons and action are here! There is also a password feature so that you can continue your progress after turning the machine off. Bionic Commando clicks on all cylinders!

People say:

9

What's really great about Bionic Commando isn't just the fact that it marks the return of one of the NES's greatest games. It's that Nintendo Software Development has taken an already classic game and made it better. They've improved the graphics, the interface, created a female character (so you have two commandos to choose from), and made other adjustments to the game to make it that much better. I never played the previous arcade and Game Boy versions, but this is simply a great portable game. But be warned...this is a hardcore game. Not as difficult as I remember the NES game being, but not easy. The additions of modes like first-person target practice and top-down, Ikari Warriors-style shooting action mixes things up a bit but keeps it all as a cohesive whole. Why Capcom has not brought Bionic Commando back before this--and really, I credit Nintendo Software Development with this one-is beyond me. Control is very tight, and you never feel like you're taking cheap hits. Unlike many third-party Game Boy titles, the control is not dictated by animation that has to finish before you can move--after a while it becomes second-nature. It's also a rare breed, as there aren't that many GB action titles to begin with. A more than worthy addition to any portable fan's library.

7

Once upon a time, I was a huge fan of the arcade Bionic Commando. Even though the NES version gave the game much-needed depth for a home console experience, I never gave it a chance. Now, playing it on the GBC, I've come to realize what I've missed all these years. Although I'm not sure I like some of the things they've changed...like what happened to the Nazi regime of the 8-Bit version? Now you're up against Ming from Flash Gordon.

7

Like Ghosts 'N Goblins, Bionic Commando is a classic brought over to the Game Boy. But unlike GnG, BC has a good deal of new stuff added to it (a "sniper mode," an extra character and more). This stuff makes the game even better than the original. Furthermore, the thing plays as well as it would on a regular home system (unlike most GB games that control like crap). If you've been hankering for a solid GB action game, look into this one.

7

If I could name one thing I like about the GBC (a system I wish would retire to make room for the next generation of handhelds), it's that it's home to plenty of old-school, hardcore games. This machine is giving a lot of classics new life. Bionic Commando is especially enjoyable since it's not a straight port. The new gameplay elements and levels make this well worth checking out (that is, if you're a fan of the original, or you still dig 2D side-scrollers).

Makeroomin your collection of Nintendo ninjas, spies, and mercenaries for the hero of Bionic Commando, and replace your baseball bats and nunchukus with a hyper-bazooka. Because once you've traveled by bionic arm, you'll never want to move by tank or helicopter again. Your character in Bionic Commando is incapable of making the slightest jump, so you have to shoot your "arm," a metal cable, to swing across obstacles or move to higher ledges. It's like Tarzan, only better.

Bionic Commando fulfills every requirement for a videogame. It provides fast action, terrific graphics, and varied gameplay. The story is straightforward: You've been sent behind enemy lines to rescue Super Joe, a top-notch soldier who was captured after uncovering an ominous plan by imperial forces to conquer the world.

Working with a map of 19 areas, you have to explore each region, picking up advanced weapons and communicating with allies along the way. Each area is completely different. In one you're faced with huge puddles that might sweep you down a sewer. In another, you must contend with bottomless snow drifts.

Certain areas are neutral zones, and although they are full of enemies, you won't be attacked unless you shoot first (which is more difficult to avoid than it might seem). In the neutral zones you'll find some of the communicators and weapons you'll need later.

Enemy tanks are constantly on the move, and if your helicopter encounters one, you'll have to descend and fight. These battle scenes scroll vertically, rather than horizontally as in the other areas. You can mow down the enemy by swinging your bionic arm over your head, or by shooting at close range.

Once you rescue Super Joe, he'll provide the hints you'll need to uncover Alba tros, the code name for the evil plan to conquer the world. But the game still isn't over. When you learn what Albatros is all about, you and Super Joe have to make sure the plan is never put into action.

  • Manufacturer: Capcom USA

Get set for rapid fire action as you're transformed into the Bionic Commando. This best-seller from Capcom is a dynamic adaptation of the original arcade classic.

Expect an onslaught of challenges and extraordinary graphics when you battle enemy forces in their futuristic lands. Your powerful extending bionic arm and incredible arsenal of weapons gives you all you need to become an unstoppable one-man army.

To the most daring soldiers, this might seem an impossible test, but they've never experienced the power of Bionic Commando!

Bionic arm extends, providing unbelievable power and strength.

Earn the weapons necessary to battle enemy forces.

Bionic Commando offers some of the best high resolution graphics available.

This is a challenge for even the best video game players!

Bionic Commando was such a hit on the NES that it just seemed destined to arrive on the GameBoy. Well, here it is and it looks hot! In this side-scrolling action game, you are a half-human half-cyborg with the ability to stretch your mechanical arm to swing across caverns and attack enemies. You can also collect new machine guns and rifles. The enemies you meet up with would all love to turn you into scrap metal. There is plenty of technique, as well!

  • GameBoy - Capcom
  • Theme: Action
  • Available: 1992

The evil Doraize army is on the move again. In return, the Federal States sent in Super Joe. All communication with him was lost. Now you, Rad Spencer, must locate Super Joe and stop the Doraize army once and for all. Use your wrist blaster to shoot enemies while collecting much-needed power-ups. Fight through ruined cities and underground fortresses to finally locate Super Joe.

People say:

8

This game really does succeed in properly executing the Bionic Commando theme on the smaller GameBoy screen. Not much has been done to alter the original premise of the NES game, and the graphics and play are well detailed and challenging. This is indeed one of the better GB titles to come along in some time.

8

Good job Capcom! With the exception of the 2 Mario games, this is the best Game-Boy cart I have seen in a long time. It plays very well for the small screen and offers more than enough challenge for the experienced player. Hey, when Sushi likes a GB cart you know it HAS to be good. I agree! Don't miss this one.

9

This is one of the best GameBoy carts I've played in a long time. The graphics and music are very good. The game play is absolutely phenomenal and captures all of the best aspects of the classic NES game. Plenty of tough action and technique throughout. If a GB cart can be this good, bring the SNES version.

7

Coolee! Aw, Pooh, I love this game! Everyone has forgotten excellent NES title until now when you can take it on the road! No offense Capcom, but Nintendo had better get in gear soon and release a Color GameBoy, because colorful titles like Bionic Commando get hacked on the tiny B&W screen!

When Director Wiseman of the dreaded Doraize Duke-dom tries to retire living legend Super Joe's number, the elite FF Corps decides to teach Wiseman a lesson. Ftad Spencer (a young, fearless, and state-of-the-art super soldier) swings into the face of danger to save his M.I.A mentor.

Calling all Game Boy guerrillas! If you've overheard NES and coin-op collectors tell fond war stories of Capcom's Bionic Commando, it's time to take a seat by the pup tent and spin a few yarns of your own! Despite its new shrunk-down GB status, BC preserves the same excellent run, swing, and shoot adventure as its full-color versions.

Mission Briefing

You, as bionically enhanced Rad Spencer, must infiltrate Doraize territory, pump hostile forces for insider info, spring Super Joe from behind enemy lines, and finally halt the top-secret Albatross project in its tracks. Think of this game as Contra meets Golgo 13, dashed with an Inspector Gadget ingredient for good measure.

Game Boy Bionic Commando's length, mission, and challenge read like a direct translation from the Nintendo version. To confuse experienced Commando campaigners, however, Capcom repackaged the levels with new obstacles and layouts. NES aces should consider this cart Bionic Commando 1.5. Even with passwords and limited continues on your side, you'll need bionic thumbs, sniper sharpshooting skills, and smart penetration plans to beat the game.

Into the Fray

You guide a chopper's flight path on a stage selection screen. Encounter an enemy task force en route to your destination, and you'll fight a brief side-view skirmish. The real meat of the action gets cooking though when you parachute into the Doraize's network of 11 hostile areas. Relentless machine gunners, grenaders, homing mines, security cameras with attitudes, and bionic bosses guard explosive power cores at the end of each stage. These worthy adversaries keep you guessing, and new enemies pop up around almost every comer.

Fancy Armwork

Bionic Commando's knuckle-crunching game play makes for great high-tech thrills, spills, and suspense. Rad's protected by a carbon alloy exo-suit, equipped with destruction-dealing rifles, and outfitted with a highly-precise, surgically-implanted, bionic arm. You can throw the arm horizontally, diagonally, or vertically, and it grapples onto solid surfaces upon impact. Once attached, you can pull yourself up, hang still, or swing from side-to-side. Arm control takes hours of practice to grasp, but once you've mastered it you'll pull off some smooth moves. Why jump when you can swing?

Armed and Ready

Rad's arsenal definitely lives up to his name. The five guns shoot up a storm, but you must find them to fill your empty holsters. Leveling levels and making connections with FF allies stationed at the six neutral area outposts will help you secure the goods. You'll also snag several armor accessories, life restorers, Flares, and Attack Boots. At the start of each stage, you can choose which tools of the trade you want by your side.

Caller I.D. Unwelcome!

To complement the intense firef'ights and blistering arm grabs, hooks, and swings, Bionic wraps up the package with a cool espionage bit. To unlock the boss room at the conclusion of each level, you use one of four Video Receivers to jam radio frequencies spouting from a communications room. Once locked into the system, you can receive urgent FF Corps communiques or wiretap Doraize conference calls and listen to classified conversations. The plot thickens and stirs with each intercepted transmission.

Bionic Graphics

Visually, Bionic Commando goes down like black and white Hershey's syrup. The large, well-drawn characters, heavy-metal background machinery, and smooth-scrolling scenery showcase some sweet Game Boy graphics. The sound effects and war songs kick, but the limited variety of tunes occasionally makes the game sound like boot camp.

Do the Wild Swing

Bionic Commando breaks the sidescrolling run-'n'-gun malaise with exciting undercover intrigue, awesome sci-fi style weaponry, and outrageous bionic arm maneuvers. As radical as this game is, Spencer's no Agent 007, but then again James Bond never had the guts to volunteer for wiry wall-grabbing arm implants. However, you do, right? Commandeer a copy of Bionic Commando and let'er rip!

ProTips:

  • Grapple yourself to safety when the Area 4 slime creatures attempt to suck you into the sewers.
  • Scale ceilings inch-by-inch with your bionic arm. Tap A twice to hook onto the surface, press Down to unhook yourself, then immediately press A again to grab the next notch. Master this method to complete Area 12's tricky underground segment.
  • Take out Area 7's impregnable force field with the Grenade Launcher.
  • Use your horizontal am to grab out-of-reach bullets. Collect 300 and you'll max out your lifeline with eight hit points.
  • Learn the paratrooper boss' patterns and you'll ground them easily. Stand at the right edge of the platform and blast the core. When soldiers attack your position, step once to the left, turn, and open fire.
  • Don't panic if a mine car rumbles your way in Area 6. Take the hit and you'll be knocked aboard.

Here's a Nintendo classic that's finally charging into some new territory, specifically the Game Boy. If you've never played the NES game, think of the super soldier, Ladd, as Detective Gadget personified. The Bionic Command has a mega-extendo metal arm, which grapples any surface and enables him to swing his way to the top. More to come.

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Playstation 3 Screenshots

NES/Famicom/Dendy Screenshots

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GameBoy Screenshots