Bionic Commando

"One of Capcom's finest platformers"

Bionic Commando is what you might call Capcom's verson of Contra. It's almost as good as Capcom's Mega Man 2, and it provides as much fun as Contra. You are a commando with a grappling arm who is out to find out more about the disappearance of Commander Joe. He left to find out more on the enemies' secret plans, and has not yet returned.

Graphics: 10/10

These are some of the finest graphics for 1988. The sprites are larger than most platform games for its time, and everything is bright and colorful. Not a strain to the eye whatsoever.

Sound: 9/10

The music kicks. It sounds very military-like, which is fitting for a game like this. Some of the sounds effects are akin to the ones in Mega Man 2, which congains some of the coolest sound effects for the NES. The sound effect for the gun is pretty revolutionary for 1988.

Gameplay: 9/10

This game kicks a lot of other platformers' butt. Unlike some platform games, the story unfolds while you progress through the game. During each level, you will recieve clues from allies, and you are able to tamper with the enemies' computers and overhear what they're planning. As far as fun goes, this game is action-packed with a variety of cool weapons and items, each one having a different use.

This game is fairly challenging, for you only start off with one hit, and you must collect items from the enemies to get more hit points. This game would be near impossible, yet you are able to collect continues as well. To get continues, you must have an enemy spot you while you're on the overhead map, and then you must kill the enemies with more gear on. The enemies that have more ammo and armor leave one continue every time you're spotted by the enemy. You can be spotted by the enemy as many times as you want, so getting continues is not a difficult job, and makes the game a lot less frustrating.

Replay? Hmm, that's a little tough. Well, there are hidden items that might take a while to find, and that would give you a reason to play the game again. Also, if you're ever just sick of all of your other video games, take Bionic Commando out. It provides entertainment even after you've beaten it and found everything.

Overall: 9/10
I can see why this game recieved so much hype! It is a little short, but it has great graphics, a decent story, and lots of action.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 05/16/00, Updated 05/16/00