Commando
Fight Your Way Through the Wasteland
Step into the boots of Super Joe in Commando, a high-intensity action game originally developed by Capcom and later brought to the Atari 2600 by Activision. You find yourself dropped into a harsh, sandy wasteland where survival depends on your ability to move fast, aim true, and think strategically. This is not a game for the faint of heart; it is a relentless test of reflexes and endurance as you fight your way through a seemingly endless sand-strewn landscape.
Your mission is straightforward but difficult: push forward, eliminate threats, and reach the end of each stage to face the final boss. The gameplay is vertically scrolling, meaning you are constantly moving upward through the level. As you advance, you will encounter foot soldiers, machine gun nests, and runaway cargo vehicles that pose immediate danger. Dodging these obstacles while returning fire requires constant attention. One wrong move can lead to a quick game over, so staying alert is essential.
Super Joe is heavily armed, which gives you the power to clear paths through dense enemy lines. You have an assault rifle with unlimited ammunition at your disposal, allowing you to spray bullets at approaching foes without worrying about running dry. However, your primary challenge lies in managing your grenades. These explosive devices are crucial for taking out groups of enemies or destroying fortified positions, but they can be tricky to use effectively. To throw a grenade, you must hold down the fire button while standing still. This mechanic forces you to make a choice: stop moving to launch an explosion and risk being hit by nearby enemies, or keep moving and rely on your rifle.
The graphics in this Atari 2600 version are notable for their clarity. The sprites are large, colorful, and well-defined, making it easier to distinguish between allies, enemies, and environmental hazards. You can clearly see the soldiers you are fighting and the structures you need to destroy. The background music adds to the tension, creating an atmosphere of urgency that matches the fast-paced action on screen.
During your run, look for opportunities to free prisoners of war. These characters wander the battlefield, and if you stand near them, they will join your cause or provide a small advantage. Freeing them is not just a nice gesture; it can help tip the scales in difficult encounters. Additionally, keep an eye out for a cowardly officer who runs away from the battle. Shooting him as he flees awards bonus points, offering a chance to boost your score if you have the aim to hit a moving target.
As you progress through the levels, the difficulty ramps up. The final stages of each area feature soldiers streaming out from a gate or fortress. This is where your grenade management skills are most tested. You must hold your ground and use explosives to clear the wave of enemies before they overwhelm you. The goal is to destroy the Mega Fortress at the end of the stage, but doing so requires surviving intense firefights and navigating dangerous terrain. A related page worth opening after this one is Commando Raid, especially if you want another nearby game from the same series.
Be careful of fox holes scattered across the map. These hidden traps are deadly; if you touch them, you will be eliminated instantly. They often blend into the sandy background, so watch your step closely. The combination of visible threats like machine gun nests and hidden dangers like fox holes keeps the gameplay unpredictable and engaging.
The game also features a unique challenge mode called Bullet Chicken. In this segment, the objective shifts slightly as you try to get as close to the enemies as possible without being hit. This tests your precision and nerve, rewarding players who can withstand the pressure of close-quarters combat.
Commando on the Atari 2600 is a classic for a reason. It offers a perfect blend of action and strategy, requiring you to balance offense with defense. The unlimited ammo gives you confidence, but the need to stop to use grenades adds a layer of tactical depth. It is a game that rewards patience and aggression in equal measure.
If you enjoy this style of vertical scrolling shooter, you might also appreciate Commando Raid, which offers similar intense action on the same platform. For those who like to compete for high scores, The Sound Machine Commando Score provides another way to engage with the competitive spirit of these classic titles.
Ultimately, Commando is about pushing forward against overwhelming odds. With Super Joe in your control, every step is a battle. The large sprites and clear visuals help you navigate the chaos, while the sound effects and music keep the adrenaline pumping. It is a challenging but rewarding experience that captures the essence of arcade-style action on home consoles. You can also try more Atari 2600 games from the same system.