%%%% %%%%%%%%% %%%%%%%% %%% %%%%
@@@@ @@@@@@@@O @@@@@@@@ @@@O @@% %%%%%% %%%%% %%%%%%%%
#@@@% @@o %@@% %@@% O@@ @@@@O%#@@ %##@@O ####O %@@@@@@@@%%
@@@% #@@% %@@% %@@ %@@% O@@@@@%@@ oo@@#oO@@#O% %#@@oo%%o@@%
#@@@ @@@@@@@@@% o@@% @@O @@@@@@@@# O@@@@###% @@@o%% %@@@%%
@@@O %@@@@@@@@@ O@@% %@@# @@@%@@@@@% O@@@@@% O###%% @O@% %@@@@
#@@@ O@@%%%@@@ O@@@@@@@@@ #@@ #@@@@ #@@@##O%oOOO%% @@@% %@@@@
@@@@ @@@ @@@% O@@@@@@@@@ o@@% O@@@% #@@@@##@O @@@%%% %@@@%%
##@@#%o####% %@@@@@@@@@@@%%
%%% %%% %%%%%%% %%% %%% O@@@@O OO###% %o@@@@@@@@%
O@@@ %@@@@ %@@@@@% %@@@ %@@ OOOOO %%oOOo %%%%%%%%
@@@@%%#@@@@ #@#%#@# %@@@@o%@@%
@@@@#O@@@@@ @@% %@@ @@@@@O@@@ _ _
o@@@@@@@@@@# %@@% %@@% @@@@@@@@@ |\/| /\ |\ | / \ \ / /\ |_)
@@@%@@@@%@@O #@@@@@@@# #@@%#@@@@ | | /--\ | \| \_/ \/\/ /--\ | \
%@@@ @@@% @@o @@@% %@@@ o@@%%#@@@#
#@@% %@% @@% @@% %@@ oo% o%%
___ _ _ ___
| |\ | |_| |_ /\ \ / \_/ |\/| |_ | /\ |
_|_ | \| | | |_ /--\ \/ | | | |_ | /--\ |_
===============================================================================
IronMan X-O Manowar in Heavy Metal
for the Sega Saturn
A FAQ/Walkthrough by Dallas Scott
Version 1.02 - February 2, 2002
Latest updates can always be found at:
http://www.dallasmac.com
http://www.gamefaqs.com
This guide is Copyright 2001-2002 by Dallas Scott
===============================================================================
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. Controls
III. Heroes
IV. Overview
V. Items
VI. Walkthrough
VII. Hazards/Enemies
VIII. Secrets/Codes
IX. Information
WARNING: Walkthrough contains plot spoilers. Read at your own risk.
===============================================================================
I. Introduction
===============================================================================
IronMan X-O Manowar in Heavy Metal, released in 1996 for the Sega Saturn, is
a linear beat 'em up with two comic book heroes to play as. Seeing as how
there are probably no other strategy guides in existence for this game, I went
ahead and made this one to help get you through the tough parts of the game.
Revision History:
v0.30 (10/4/2001): Finished Mission 1 in walkthrough.
v0.75 (10/7/2001): Halfway done with Mission 4 in walkthrough.
v0.90 (10/8/2001): Starting Mission 6 in walkthrough.
v1.00 (10/8/2001): Walkthrough finished, everything complete.
v1.01 (10/11/2001) Added an ASCII logo thanks to AstroBlue.
v1.02 (02/2/2002): Changed the boss name "Mystery Man X" to the correct
name ("Absorbing Man") thanks to Patrick Lauron, and also
spellchecked the guide.
Author's note: AFAIK, X-O's game is identical to IronMan's. If you notice any
errors or changes from IronMan's to X-O's game, please notify me of them so I
can make corrections.
===============================================================================
II. Default Controls
===============================================================================
IronMan:
A Button - Punch X Button - Kick
B Button - Fire laser Y Button - Fire uni-beam
C Button - Jump Z Button - Grab
L Button - No use Start - Pause
R Button - No use D-Pad - Move IronMan
Up (2x) + B - Fire into background
Down (2x) + B - Two-sided shot
Down + A - Pick up object
A (twice) - Boost
X-O Manowar:
A Button - Swing rod X Button - Punch
B Button - Fire laser Y Button - Fire omni-beam
C Button - Jump Z Button - Grab
L Button - No use Start - Pause
R Button - No use D-Pad - Move X-O
Up (2x) + B - Fire into background
Down (2x) + A - Rod-spin attack
Down + A - Pick up object
A (twice) - Boost
===============================================================================
III. Heroes
===============================================================================
Though both characters play almost identical, I prefer playing as IronMan
simply because he's smaller, has a larger beam range and can duck under the
shots of enemies.
Iron Man
Real Name: Anthony Stark
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Weapons: Repulsor Rays, Uni-beam, EMP
X-O Manowar
Real Name: Aric of Dacia (in armor)
Height: 7'0"
Weight: 450 lbs.
Weapons: 100 MHz pulsed Ion Cannons, Omni-beam, EMP
===============================================================================
IV. Overview
===============================================================================
Save System:
This game makes use of a password system rather than actually saving your
game. At the end of each level, you are given a 26-digit password which you
must write down for later use.
Two Player:
The two-player mode is exactly the same as one player, only you and a friend
can conquer the game together rather than playing solo.
Display:
In the upper-left corner of the screen are your armor and boost meters. Armor
is life and boost is how long you can boost into the air. In the lower-left
corner is your weapon meter. Maximum amount of weapons is four; these count
how many beam shots you get as well as how powerful your laser is. Under
meters is the number of lives you have left.
Game Options:
Music - Turn it on/off.
Music Test - Test all of the background themes.
Music Level - Volume of background music.
Sound FX - Turn them on/off.
Sound FX Test - Test all the sound effects.
Sound FX Lvl - Volume of sound effects.
Stereo/Mono - Set the sound to stereo or mono.
Cntrl Config - Change the controller configuration.
Difficulty - Set from Wimpy (easiest) to Super Hero (toughest).
Hints and Tips:
* Do not shoot into force fields; they reflect your shots.
* You can shoot enemies or objects in the background by double tapping UP then
firing your laser.
* A two-sided shot is where you fire a laser from each side of your body and
can be performed by double tapping DOWN followed by firing your laser.
* When you collect a weapon upgrade, not only do you receive an extra beam to
shoot, but your laser also increases in power.
* When boosting to high altitudes, keep an eye on your meter. If it runs out,
you'll have to wait for it to regenerate.
* After killing an Alien Spider, if you jump up and shoot it a couple of times
while it's lying on the ground, it'll explode.
* Each time you die, boost and armor expansions are lost and one weapon is
lost from your count.
* After completing a level, all previous passwords will be discarded, meaning
they will no longer work. They are replaced with the current password.
* When you get four weapons, seek shot is activated. Seek shot is a fourth
shot added to your laser which will seek out the closest object (trash can,
dead enemy, nuke, etc.) and fire at it. This is VERY useful.
* If you play on Wimpy mode (easiest) you're armor meter is automatically
expanded a bit and stays that way even if you die.
* You get 5 lives per continue. The number of continues you get depends on
the difficulty setting you're playing on. Once all continues are gone, you
get game over and must either start all over or go back to the previous
level you were playing with only 1 life.
===============================================================================
V. Items
===============================================================================
Armor - Slightly increases armor meter.
Boost - Regenerates slightly more boost.
Weapon - Replenish one lost weapon (beam).
Max Armor - Completely fills armor meter.
Max Boost - Completely fills boost meter.
Max Weapon - Replenishes all lost weapons (beam).
Armor Expand - Slightly expands armor meter.
Boost Expand - Slightly expands boost meter.
Extra Life - Adds one life to count.
Random Item - Item cycles through amor, boost and weapon.
When collected, you receive the item it stops on.
Continue Up - Ring-like item that gives you 1 extra continue.
===============================================================================
VI. Walkthrough
===============================================================================
MISSION 1: NUCLEAR PLANT SIEGE
Primary Objective: Secure Reactor Core against meltdown and eliminate Melter.
Secondary Objective: Vaporize nuclear fuel canisters to prevent use by
terrorists.
Hazards/Enemies: Armorine, Spider Alien Soldiers, Fat Spider Aliens, Overhead
Gun Turret, Dome Gun Turret, Melter, Mr. Hyde
Briefing: Encrypted NRC cable indicates St. Paul Nuclear Power Plant
infiltrated by terrorists. May be part of coordinated attack by Dromak aliens
in high earth orbit. Elite squadron of Armorines dispatched by pentagon to
retake plant. Your assistance requested. End msg...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M1: L1
This level is pretty straight-forward and will introduce you to the basic
structure of the game. Start off by going left (unless you want to explore
everything) since the right leads to a dead end. Kill off any hazards/enemies
you come to (*remember, you can kill enemies in the background by double
tapping UP then firing*) and continue left. Remember to destroy all fuel
canisters you see and eventually you'll make it to the room where you just
need to fly up through the holes in the floor. Once you reach the top, go
left (after destroying the canister to the right) all the way and blow a hole
through the exit door - go through to finish the level.
M1: L2
In the first room, there are a bunch of ceiling turrets as well as aliens who
throw grenades. If you are even touched by a grenade, it explodes and you
damage, so be very careful. Once at the top of the first room, blow a hole
through the northwest door and go through. Time for your first boss fight!
BOSS: DR. HYDE
This grunting fool can pack some heavy punch. There really is no way to
avoid his running attacks unless you hover above him (which won't last very
long) so get as many shots in as possible before he rams into you. When he
falls for the first time, he'll get up and charge around the room twice.
The second time you knock him down (at around 50% health) he will grow in
size and jump into the background. When he does so, he'll begin throwing
fuel canisters at you! Since you can't attack him when he does this, just
avoid the canisters and wait for him to come back. He will continue doing
this + the running attacks until defeated.
Once he's gone, pick up all the goodies he left behind (quickly) and the
level will be complete. Pretty short, eh?
M1: L3
You start off on an elevator stopped on the first floor. There's a turret gun
on each side of the wall and aliens will shortly jump out and land on the
elevator with you. The easiest way to get rid of them without getting hit by
the turret guns is to stand to the very left of the elevator then continually
fire your laser so it hits the aliens as they jump down. The elevator will
begin moving down. Do the same for the next batch of aliens as well as for
the ones that jump from the background. When you stop on the next floor, the
side walls will explode and two flame-heads will emerge. Avoid them if
possible and the elevator will begin to rapidly decline. If you stay on,
you'll be smashed below... boost now!
Once you land where the elevator platform smashed, go left first. Beware of
the ceiling turrets here, they have deadly shots. Continue left all the way
until you reach the door - blast it and go through to enter a new room. In
this room, you will notice two red switches in the background. After taking
care of the aliens/turrets, shoot both switches to deactivate the auto-fire
turrets on the ceilings. Leave the room and go back to where the elevator
smashed. This time, take the right path. With the auto-fire turrets now off,
you'll find that it's much easier to get by. Remember, if you blast the white
doors in the background, aliens will jump out and fuel canisters back there
will explode, so try to do that.
Once you reach the door on the far right, blast it and go through into the
next room. As you'll notice, the ceiling turrets are on in here. Kill the
aliens/fuel canisters in the background and watch out for the turrets/aliens
in the foreground then go through the right door into the next room, which is
exactly the same. Once finished, blast your way out to the right to finish
off the level.
M1: L4
BOSS: MELTER
Yep, this one's just a boss fight and not an easy one. You only get three
minutes to defeat Melter then the entire place will meltdown if he's not
defeated within that time limit. His attacks are basic - he likes to swing
from the pipes on the ceiling and when he lands, he'll shoot out a bunch of
arrows. From time to time, he'll also jump into the background and shoot out
a bunch of red orbs - avoid them. His other attack is a long-range laser
that he fires from his chest, duck down (w/Iron Man) to avoid it. Get shots
in while he's both on the ground and on his legs while he's swinging from the
pipes and you should be able to kill him off in time.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSION 2: STARK ENTERPRISES
Primary Objective: Secure Stark Enterprises Lab, eliminating Goliath.
Hazards/Enemies: Spider Alien Soldiers, Spider Alien Minions, Stark Security
Drone, Titania, Yellowjacket, Goliath
Briefing: Starknet signals indicate spider aliens infiltrated Stark
Enterprises compound during nuke plant diversion. Target may be Stark's
Vibranium drill bit. Return to base at once. End msg...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M2: L1
In the beginning, you'll have to deal with some electrical towers - simply run
under them when the electricity is off. For the one with constant electricity
flow, just fly above it to get around. Beware of Security Drones in this
level; you can fire up to destroy them. When you come to the green pits, make
sure you fly over them to avoid damage (*I noticed some slowdown in the game
near the second green pit*). Also be cautious of Spider Aliens lurking around
in the background - they will set up trap bombs that come to the foreground
and injure you; kill them if possible. Once you reach the end, the level will
be complete.
M2: L2
If you fly down to the bottom of the gap to your right in the beginning,
you'll find a couple of power-ups. Begin climbing up the Stark Enterprises
building, killing off the few Spider Aliens you see. Go right and drop down
to find another boss - Titania.
BOSS: Titania
The playing field in this match is much more open than the previous two,
making the fight a whole lot easier. Do not attempt to use hand/foot combat
against Titania, as she is too strong and will take very minimal damage.
Instead, use your primary (laser) and secondary weapons (if you have any
left) and avoid her running attacks by flying over her as she comes near.
From time to time, she'll lift up one of the large SE orbs in the background
and toss it at you - these are easy to avoid. Once her life meter is empty,
this level is done.
M2: L3
Head right and pick off the stray Spider Aliens. See that hole in the floor?
It's actually the top of an elevator - step on it to ride it down. Two Spider
Aliens will board on the next floor and begin conversing. They get off and
YellowJacket appears. Yet another fight.
BOSS: YellowJacket
The only time you cannot attack YellowJacket is when she shrinks to 1/2 inch.
Otherwise, the omni-beam and uni-beam work really well on her. She has only
two attacks, really: flying into you and shooting small blue explosive lasers
around the elevator shaft, both easily avoidable. Just stick to the left
corner and duck when she flies by; aim up and fire to deal damage. Once
she's gone the level continues.
A Spider Alien will hop on the elevator with you - kill him and the elevator
will begin to rapidly decline, just as the one in the previous mission had.
Boost and watch it explode below. If you go right, you'll find a force field
blocking the way, so blow a hole in the left wall where the elevator smashed
and you'll find a red switch in the background that deactivates the force
field. Proceed to the right and watch out for the aliens that come through
the mechanical doors in the background. Even though none are coming out, one
_will_ right after you pass it and attack you from behind. Once you reach the
end of this corridor, the level will end.
M2: L4
Ah, the introduction of airways. Take the first one up then hop off to the
left. At the end of the left side is a red switch that will deactivate the
force field to the right of the first airway. Once its gone, go through into
the next room and shoot the next red switch in the background to deactivate
another force field to your right. Beware of Security Drone portals - they're
a nightmare. In the next room, drop down and go left toward the incinerators.
When the flame dies down, quickly run by before it starts up again.
Once you get past them all, shoot the switch behind the mechanical door to
activate the airway you just dropped down from. Go back past the incinerators
and hop up to the upper-level then go all the way left again to find an extra
life! Once ready, take the airway you just activated back up and get off to
the right. You'll soon come to another force field near the "CAUTION: LASER"
sign in the background. To deactivate it, hop up onto the upper-level nearby
and shoot the switch behind the mechanical door. Time to fight another boss!
BOSS: GOLIATH
It's the drill bit! Unfortunately, it won't be around for long. Though
Goliath may look simple at first, you'll be surprised to find he isn't as
easy as he looks. Since he's so large, he moves rather slowly, giving you
the chance to get a lot of shots in. Just avoid coming into contact with him
and keep shooting until he stops and doubles his size! In this form, he will
smash the ground with his hands; boost when he does this or you will take
damage. If you try to boost when he's right near you, he'll smash you out of
the air with his fist. Use your primary weapon on him to deal damage.
Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse, Goliath grows in size AGAIN,
this time to a whopping 60' tall. In this form, he will pick up the large
iron objects from the drill bit in the background and hurl them towards you -
these are hard to avoid because they bounce twice before exploding, but try
you best not to get hit. Once those are gone, he'll smash the ground like
before. Use your primary weapon just as you have been to finally kill him,
ending the level and the second mission. Some mysterious being will appear
in a cloud and magically take the drill bit away just before the level ends.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSON 3: RETAKE NEW YORK CITY
Primary Objective: Search and destroy - Mistress Crescendo.
Secondary Objective: Destroy tactical-nukes before detonation.
Hazards/Enemies: Spider Alien Soldiers, Crescendo's Air Cavalry, Spider Alien
Minions, Crescendo's Guard, Vizier, Mistress Crescendo
Briefing: StarkComsat confirms stolen drill may be under control of Mistress
Crescendo. Crescendo and her guards have laid siege to Manhattan--Orb
industries infiltrated. Heavy Spider Alien activity also reported in New York
subway system. End msg...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M3: L1
Upon starting, you'll hear a beeping noise, this means a nearby nuke is about
to detonate and if you don't destroy it before it does, you lose. This one is
on the upper-level above you; destroy it then hop back down. An electricity
current will break out in front of the theater, so you'll have to boost over
it to get by. Kill the guards that come out of the theater doors then go
right and destroy the next nuke on the upper-level. Beware of the guards in
the windows in the background - they'll throw projectiles at you. The next
part is really hard to get past because a constant swarm of air cavalry will
be attacking you - I strongly suggest flying over them all (start from where
the guys in the windows are) and fly all the way to the subway steps - take
them down to complete the level.
M3: L2
There's a random power-up in the trash can just to the left (in the
background) when you first start. You can also get a few more power-ups by
shooting the stands in the background just right of where you start. After
going down the first escalator, a nuke will be detected (it took me a bunch of
tries to finally figure out where it was) - it's behind the boards in the
background with the yellow "CAUTION" tape in front. Shoot away the boards and
you'll find the nuke - destroy it (this is right under the "Exit: PATH West
Broadway" sign if you still can't find it).
Proceed down the next escalator only to find another nuke in the background
(don't worry, you can actually see it this time). First take out any Spider
Aliens near you so they don't interfere, then take out the nuke before it
detonates. After the third escalator, another nuke will be detected. As
with the previous, this one's visible in the background - just kill the alien
that jumps into the foreground first. Continue right and the level will end.
M3: L3
This level takes place on the actual subway. There are a bunch of nukes
here, they'll either be on the bottom (inside/in between carts) or on top (on
the roof of carts) and are very visible, so you should have no trouble
destroying them all. Look out for mines on the floor as well as Spider
Minions/Aliens, as well as fire blocking cart doors (you can fly through the
roof to get past). Once you reach the last cart, the level ends.
M3: L4
Back to the train station. Go left; the first nuke is in the background, so
destroy it. Proceed up the first escalator (why is it the escalators can
never be going in the direction you're walking? :P) and continue left a bit
to find the next nuke in the background. Once it's gone, continue left.
Right in front of the third escalator (front meaning base) is another nuke
in the background behind some yellow "CAUTION" tape. When you reach the
ticket windows, shoot them for some power-ups then continue left to end the
level.
M3: L5
Boost over the subway steps and go right to find the first nuke in the
background. After the bus stop, watch out for guards who pop out of windows
in the background. Boost over the air cavalry; the second nuke is right after
the next building. This next part may be difficult, as several air cavalry
units will fly into you as you go; avoid them as best as possible and continue
right to the end.
M3: L6
This level is really a nightmare, especially because of the air cavalry. It
takes place on the rooftops of several tall skyscrapers, so you must boost
from rooftop to rooftop without falling. The main problem is that a lot of
the enemies hide in the background. There are two nukes, both in the
background on rooftops - destroy them quickly. You'll eventually make it to
the rooftop with Vizier on it.
BOSS: Vizier
This guy looks like Merlin the Wizard and makes use of electricity to fight.
Not only that, but he has the ability to teleport, making things more
difficult for you. He only has two attacks: shooting blue flames from his
staff and teleporting to the background and shooting a bunch of electrical
orbs at you. To avoid the latter, stay on one side of the screen then run
to the other as he shoots to ensure you don't get hit by any of them. Use
your secondary weapon whenever possible (just make sure you don't use it
right before he teleports, or it'll go to waste) and your standard laser
until his energy meter is depleted.
M3: L7
BOSS: Mistress Crescendo (1)
She has two attacks, one easy to avoid and one not-so-easy to avoid.
Fortunately, the latter is the most least used. Her first (and main) attack
is using her laser eyes. She will first clone herself in order to transport
around the playing field then fires a laser from her eyes that spans the
entire playing field. Simply boost to avoid it then shoot your lasers at
her before she does it again. Her second (and most least used) attack is
hopping into the background and summoning two air cavalry to shoot at you.
While their shots are easy to avoid, they will then fly into the foreground
and run into you. Omni-beam and uni-beam works well against her, so use
those if you have any. Once she's defeated, the mission is over.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSION 4: DROMAK BASE ASSAULT
Primary Objective: Infiltrate Dromak base inside volcano, eliminate Dromak
Gladiator in command.
Secondary Objective: Vaporize Armorine Satcom transmitters. Renegade gov't
factions may be using Armorines to work with Dromaks.
Hazards/Enemies: Armorine, Spider Alien Minions, Dromak Gladiator
Briefing: Msg intercept: Milsat III: NSA memos indicate elite armorine
battalion dispatched to remote S. American jungle. Dromaks tracked to active
volcano base deep in rainforest. -- Possible location of Vibranium drill bit.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M4: L1
Lots of things to watch out for here. First, there are Armorines hidden
almost EVERYWHERE: trees, bushes, shrubs, behind logs, in the background, etc.
They're pretty easy to kill, but can still deal a lot of damage if you're
swarmed. The second obstacle to beware of are booby traps. Whenever you see
a small laser line on the ground or in the air, it's a trap, meaning when you
walk through it, it explodes causing damage. There are three Satcoms in the
level, one in the background, two in the foreground. In the beginning, when
you come to a dead end, boost up to the elevated ground to continue. You'll
know you're near the end when you come to the long bridge (where a lot of
Armorines are hiding in the trees above).
M4: L2
It doesn't get any better than this... classic shooter action! In this level,
your character will be flying through the whole thing, but so will the
enemies. Your goal? Shoot 'em all up! Beware of spinning mines. Default
controls are slightly changed for this round; A is now used for the secondary
weapon. When you reach the end, you'll have to deal with a chopper, which
should be a piece of cake. Avoid its auto-fire as well as the missiles it
shoots out from time to time, while dealing out damage of your own. Once its
destroyed, the level is over. (*Don't forget to grab the extra life that's
left behind!*)
M4: L3
BOSS: Absorbing Man
(Thanks to Patrick Lauron for pointing out this boss' name!) Absorbing Man
carries a large iron ball 'n' chain and can absorb different materials that
will make him stronger throughout the battle. He's rather heavy, meaning his
speed is slow. His first attack is running at you and swinging the ball 'n'
chain your way. Avoid it by boosting while dealing damage of your own. Once
you knock him down for the first time, he will absorb rock, making him
tougher. Knock him down again and he'll absorb glass! When he absorbs the
glass, you cannot fire your laser at him or it'll be reflected back at you.
Instead, use hand/foot combat to deal damage (or if you have any beams left,
use them). He'll swing the glass ball in his hand, which is hard to avoid,
so try to kill him off quickly.
M4: L4
Just a series of a slopes filled with Armorines and Minions. When you first
start, if you go left you can find a max armor item. Cross the bridge,
killing Armorines as they appear. Drop down, slope by slope (at one point,
rocks will fall from above - avoid them) until you finally reach the end at
the southeast portion of the level. Make sure you don't get swarmed by
minions and beware of Armorines that duck down on slopes to conceal
themselves - these two are the main causes of damage to your character.
M4: L5
Try hopping on top of the cave entrance to your left for a boost expand.
Unfortunately for you, the Armorines in this level are equipped with jetpacks,
meaning they can fly from the background to the foreground and attack from the
air. You'd better have a few lives if you expect to make it out alive in this
one. Boost up from cliff to cliff, killing Armorines and destroying Satcoms
as you come to them. Some Armorines will fire at you from the background
before coming to the foreground, so look out. Boost over the molten pits to
avoid damage, and once you make it to the top, the level will be over.
M4: L6
Finally made it into the volcano. Boost over the first lava pit when it's
safe (a fountain of molten will come down from above, so fly right after it's
finished flowing). When you come to the rock blocking your way, just shoot
out the center and bottom then continue right. When you come to the third
lava pit, do not continue going right - it leads to a dead end. Instead, fly
up the center of the pit and land on the first left ledge to find a Satcom;
destroy it then continue flying up to the next ledge on the right (there's a
Spider Minion on it). Once you're boost meter has regenerated, fly up yet
again to the next left ledge where you'll find another Minion.
Continue going up from ledge to ledge until you reach the top-right one. From
here, go all the way right, avoiding lava flows and minions that come up from
the ground until you reach the finish.
M4: L7
BOSS: Dromak Gladiator
Though this guy's health meter is fairly large, you shouldn't have too much
trouble in defeating him. His attacks consist of throwing axes at you,
sending electricity along the ground and swinging his large axe at you.
All can be avoiding by jumping or boosting. Use your lasers and if you have
any beams left, use them too. Strangely enough, once this guy is defeated,
he lets out a yell exactly identical to IronMan's. :P After he's gone, the
mission is over.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSION 5: ASSAULT ON ZOLA'S CASTLE
Primary Objective: Search and destroy: Arnim Zola, Mistress Crescendo.
Hazards/Enemies: Wolf Class Spider Alien, Ear Freak, Hand-Walker, Hand Claws,
Doughboy, Arnim Zola
Briefing: Satstar3: Drill bit detected on uncharted island. Code name "Isle
of Exiles". Dr. Arnim Zola using bit to drill deep into ocean floor.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M5: L1
So, you've finally made it into Zola's castle. Once you kill a Wolf Class
Spider Alien, jump up and continue firing at the cadaver until it explodes,
revealing an armor up. Ear Freaks will scramble your controls and some Hand
Claws will shoot out orbs at you. After dropping down the first corridor to
the right, make sure you don't drop down the next, as there's flames below.
Instead, go left and shoot the skeletal face you see in the background to open
a passage. Go all the way right, through the new open passage and drop down a
few ledges until you come to the passage on the right with the two faces in
the background.
Follow it all the way right then fly up a couple more corridors (beware of
Hand Claws on the sides) until you reach the top - go left and shoot the
skeletal face in the background to open the passage right next to it. Go left
Go up the next two corridors, hop off to the right and go all the way right
until you reach a door - blast it and go through to finish off the level.
[Reminder: this guide can always be found at game faqs (dot) com]
M5: L2
You'll be introduced to the Hand-Walkers in this level, but they really aren't
that tough. Go right and drop down a few times until you get to the main
large corridor. There's fire all below and small platforms on the sides which
you can boost up to. First boost up to the platform on the right, then from
there, boost up to the next opening (also on the right). If you shoot the
door in the background here, you'll hit a hidden skeletal face which opens a
new passage. Go back down to where you entered the main corridor and go all
the way left, down into a caged area where you'll find three hidden power-ups.
Once you have them, fly back up to where you hit the skeletal face.
From here, you must now go over to where the cage with the giant Ear Freak was
and boost up through the tunnel. Once you make it up, kill off the Hand-
Walkers and the small Ear Freak, then fly up through the left tunnel and the
level will be over.
M5: L3
You'll start off in a cylindrical room with reflective walls. Fly up to the
top (using the rail on the sides to regenerate boost) then fly up the brick
wall and land on the left side. Go left, flying over the boomerang-throwing
Wolf Class Spider Aliens and shooting doors/skeletal faces as you see them.
Once you make it to the end and shoot the skeletal face there, the grating
you just passed will be open - drop down through it. This whole area looks as
if you're playing behind bars, which you are. Go all the way left, killing
the two Wolf Class Spider Aliens and blast a hole in the door when you come to
it. When you emerge on the other side, drop down, go right and you'll find
the next boss.
BOSS: DOUGHBOY
Sure looks different from the Pillsbury one, huh? Doughboy has two rolling
attacks in which he removes his arms and rolls up into a ball. The first is
a small ball that bounces around the room, the second is a larger ball that
just rolls on the floor (boost to avoid it). He will also jump into the
background every now and then and fire off pieces of himself into the
foreground. Destroy these pieces or avoid them until Doughboy comes back
into the foreground. As with all bosses, use your lasers and beams (if any)
to defeat him.
M5: L4
BOSS: Arnim Zola
Here's where Zola shows his favorite color: yellow. Yep, he's got the drill
bit and stays in the background throughout the ENTIRE battle (what a coward)
and instead sends out Ear Freaks and Hand-Walkers after you. If you have
seek shot activated, consider yourself lucky. If not, you're in for a long
battle. You must shoot into the background to attack Zola. The order of
enemies is as follows: 1 Hand-Walker, 2 Small Ear Freaks; 2 Hand-walkers.
Once he's eventually killed, he leaves behinds some power-ups and the mission
will be finished.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSION 6: ALIEN DIG: THE COSMIC CUBE
Primary Objective: Search and Destroy: Baron Zemo and Cosmic Cube.
Secondary Objective: Find force-field power units and vaporize to deactivate
force-fields.
Hazards/Enemies: Spider Alien Soldiers, Crescendo's Air Cavalry, Mistress
Crescendo, Cosmic Cube, Baron Zemo
Briefing: Sources indicate Zola used drill to bore into ocean floor. Close to
unearthing powerful artifact known as "Cosmic Cube" at behest of Dromaks.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M6: L1
The goal here is to completely destroy the drill bit. Make sure you avoid
touching it at all and also avoid the spinning blades it shoots out from its
top. Start by attacking its arms and claws to get those destroyed. Once
those are gone, its body will be vulnerable. Also note that the walls here
are reflective, so you can shoot at them and the shots will go back to the
body of the drill bit. Once its destroyed, the level ends.
M6: L2
A series of long, confusing caves. Beware of electrical beams that surge on
and off as well as mines on the floor. You may notice that some of the Alien
Soldiers are enhanced with beam weapons now, which are very deadly so kill
them off as quickly as possible. When you come to the red force field
blocking your way, go left a bit and destroy the machine you see to deactivate
the force field. Drop down and cross over the small hills. You'll eventually
come to the final path going right and the level will end.
M6: L3
For the first part of this level you will be flying from pillar to pillar.
Don't fall off or you'll lose a life. Once you reach the flying machine, hop
on and enjoy the ride. More shooter action... pick off all the air cavalry
until the flying machine stops. Get off, go right and the level ends.
M6: L4
BOSS: Baron Zemo + Cosmic Cube
Since the Cosmic Cube is hovering above the playing field, I assume it's
part of the battle. Baron Zemo is only susceptible to foot and hand combat,
meaning your lasers and beams are useless on him. His only attack is firing
at you with a laser gun, which is easily avoidable by ducking with IronMan.
When it's clear, run up and get a series of attacks in on him (uppercuts,
scissor kicks, whatever you want, just make sure you get more than one attack
in to make things go faster). After being attacked, he'll electrify himself
and teleport to a new area of the playing field. The cycle begins again.
Once he's gone, Crescendo takes over.
BOSS: Mistress Crescendo (2) + Cosmic Cube
She's pretty much exactly the same as before only with one new attack (a
straight laser in addition to the one along the floor). When she clones
herself and teleports, get shots in before she attacks as well as after she
attacks. Avoid the ground laser by boosting and the straight laser in the
same way (ducking will not avoid the straight laser, as it's pretty low).
After she's gone, the mysterious being in the bubble will take the Cosmic
Cube and that finishes the level as well as the mission.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
MISSION 7: BOARD DROMAK SHIP
Primary Objective: Search and Destroy: General Krytos and Cosmic Cube.
Secondary Objective: Aim blast into ships ports to destabilize Dromak ship to
deplete General Krytos' power reserves.
Hazards/Enemies: Wolf Class Spider Alien, Dromak Private, General Krytos,
Cosmic Cube
Briefing: Cosmic Cube moved to Dromak ship in high-earth orbit. Must reach
general Krytos before successful activation of cube. End msg...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M7: L1
Yay, more shooter fun. This time, the targets are space mines, asteroids
and a few other objects later on down the line. A few weapon expands will be
released in the beginning, which you can grab to hopefully power-up to seek
shot. Near the end of the level, two Dromak fighters will appear and fly all
around, shooting at you. Seek shot is great on them if you have it. An extra
life will also be available sometime around now. Once the Dromak fighters are
gone, the level is done.
M7: L2
In the beginning, you'll have to deal with Wolf Class Spider Aliens hiding in
bunkers, but they should be no problem (especially with seek shot activated).
Go up the slopes and onto the moving walkway. See that machine in the
background? Shoot and destroy it to deactivate the force-field up ahead.
Drop down, go right and kill the fighter (this should deactivate another
force-field). Notice the small alcoves in the ceiling - if you fly into them,
you'll find item expands. When you come to the hole in the floor, drop down
and destroy the machine there, then hop back out and step on the teleport
pad in front of the next force-fielded door.
This will teleport you to another machine, destroy it to destroy the force-
field then teleport back. Whenever you see circular flashing objects in the
background, shoot 'em for items. If you continue going right, you'll come to
another force-fielded door on top of a slope. Go back to the hole in the
ground and use the teleporter here to find the next machine. Destroy it then
teleport back. The force-field is now gone, so proceed all the way right to
the final teleport - it will take you out of the level.
M7: L3
Gah! Dromak Privates! These guys are really tough, so you'll have to fire
a lot of shots to kill just one. When you come to the space mines, go right
and shoot the red symbol in the background to deactivate the force-field on
the left above. Kill the enemies here and deactivate the force-field on the
right, then fly over to the right and shoot the next red symbol on the wall
to deactivate the force-fields above. Fly up and to the left. The Dromak
Private here will drop a continue up once you kill it. Continue going up and
shooting the red symbols until you shoot the last one on the top-right which
ends the level.
M7: L4
FINAL BOSS: General Krytos + Cosmic Cube
Out of all the bosses you've fought thus far, this guy is the only one who
has the power to heal himself. How does he do? With the Cosmic Cube, of
course. Yes, he wields a huge, deflective axe, but that isn't going to stop
you from victory. YOU CANNOT SHOOT AT HIM FROM THE FRONT; all shots will be
reflected back at you from his axe. I've found a very good strategy to
defeating him - get behind him and shoot at his back, then when he turns
around to swing at you, quickly run behind him again before he does and shoot
at his back again. Since he turns around so slowly, you can get a lot of
shots in before he turns around. When he heals himself with the Cosmic Cube,
it only replenishes about 30% of his health. Use any and all beams you have
left combined with laser fire and eventually he'll be dead.
Congratulations! Your hard work and dedication has finally paid off. The
Cosmic Cube kills him and the game ends. Watch the ending FMV and be proud
that you've just finished one of the most obscure games ever made.
===============================================================================
VII. Hazards/Enemies
===============================================================================
ARMORINE:
The U.S. government attempted to duplicate the X-O armor and created several
suits of armor beyond the scope of conventional weapons. Since they are no
match for the original, they still want to capture Aric and take the X-O
armor for themselves.
ARNIM ZOLA
Real Name: Arnim Zola
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 200 lbs.
This brilliant genetic scientist has an ESP box instead of a head. He
controls his legion of monstrous biogenetic creations by means of electro-
psychic instruments. [For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M5: L4]
COSMIC CUBE:
Sources now believe the Cube to be the ultimate goal of the Alliance. NSA
analysts suspect Cube has the capability to give psycho-metric powers to its
user. Dromaks in possession of Cube would have power to control much of the
known universe.
CRESCENDO'S AIR CAVALRY:
Special jet-sled unit of Crescendo's elite guard detachment.
CRESCENDO'S GUARD:
Highly trained elite infantry guards of Mistress Crescendo's evil fighting
force.
DOME GUN TURRET:
Gatling-type projectile weapon fires 20mm depleted Uranium rounds.
Originally designed to defend the plant, they may be under control of spider
aliens.
DOUGHBOY:
Real Name: Doughboy
Height: Variable (usually 10')
Weight: Variable (usually several tons)
Author's note: Hoo-hoo! [For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M5: L3]
DROMAK GLADIATOR:
Real Name: None
Height: 14'0"
Weight: 900 lbs.
Special Powers: An elite class of Dromak, the mighty Gladiators are the
esteemed warriors of this race. It is a great honor and a great tragedy to
battle a Gladiator. [For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M4: L7]
DROMAK PRIVATE:
These soldiers of General Krytos, leader of the Band of Dromak, seek the X-O
armor for their lord. The total annihilation of the earth will not stand in
their way!
EAR FREAK:
Arnim Zola has created some extraordinary creatures, each capable of causing
tremendous mayhem. With little intelligence, the Ear Freak possesses
surprising power.
Author's note: The "surprising power" Ear Freaks possess is the ability to
scramble your characters controls if you're hit by one of their beams.
FAT SPIDER ALIENS:
Often found with the soldiers, the "fat boy" aliens are used to hurl
fragmentation grenades and also wield a short range "spider-bite", a taser-
type electrical weapon. X-O's main interaction with spider-aliens is to kill
them on sight, no questions asked.
GENERAL KRYTOS:
Real Name: Krytos
Height: 14'
Weight: 300 lbs.
Special Powers: Krytos is the leader of the Band of Dromak. His life is war,
pillage and conquest. He's seen the power of the X-O armor and he wants it.
[For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M7: L4]
GOLIATH:
Real Name: Erik Josten
Height (normal): 6'0"
Weight (normal): 225 lbs.
Special Powers: Ability to increase his size and mass at will from normal 6'
height to his maximum 60' height. [For strategy, see walkthrough, M2: L4]
HAND CLAWS:
The castle itself was created by Zola as a genetic hybrid, and will spawn
razor sharp claws that morph suddenly out of walls to violently repel
unwelcome visitors.
HAND-WALKER:
Arnim Zola has created some extraordinary creatures, each capable of causing
tremendous mayhem. Among them is the freak which walks on its hands and has
powerful leaping ability.
MELTER:
Real Name: Brund Horgan
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 205 lbs.
Using a special device which projects energy able to loosen nuclear bonds of
matter causing it to change from solid to liquid form. He is able to liquefy
wood, stone, metal, and even flesh! [For strategy, see walkthough, M1: L4]
MISTRESS CRESCENDO:
Real Name: Unknown
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 150 lbs.
As the queen of the Nile, Crescendo commanded great power. When that power
was taken away by Marauding Visigoths, Crescendo started a crusade that
spanned the centuries. [For strategy, see walkthrough, M3: L7, M6: L4]
MR. HYDE:
Real Name: Dr. Calvin Zabo
Height (as Zabo): 5'11"
(as Hyde): 6'5"
Weight (as Zabo): 135 lbs.
(as Hyde): 420 lbs.
By ingesting a hormonal chemical formula, Zabo is able to transform himself
into the fierce force known as "Mister Hyde". [For boss strategy, see
walkthrough, M1: L2]
OVERHEAD GUN TURRET:
Pulsed laser weapon, originally designed to defend the plant, may be under
control of spider aliens.
SPIDER ALIEN MINIONS:
The Minion is a subspecies of the alien race who created the X-O armor.
X-O's main interaction with spider-aliens is to kill them on sight, no
questions asked.
SPIDER ALIEN SOLDIERS:
The soldiers are the grunts of the alien race who created the X-O armor.
X-O's main interaction with spider-aliens is to kill them on sight, no
questions asked.
STARK SECURITY DRONE:
A mechanical scout/bomber used for tactical defense with targeting motion
sensors.
TITANIA:
Real Name: Mary "Skeeter" Macpherran
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 545 lbs.
Superhuman strength, stamina and durability. Extensive streetfighting
experience. Titania likely to be protecting entrance to Stark Enterprises.
[For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M2: L2]
VIZIER:
Real Name: Unknown
Height: Unknown
Weight: Unknown
[For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M3: L6]
WOLF CLASS SPIDER ALIEN:
Heavily armored spider aliens are elite warriors of the alien race who
created the X-O armor. Wolf-class armor is equipped with both ionic blades
and ionic claws.
YELLOWJACKET:
Real Name: Rita Demara
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 115 lbs.
Her expertise in cybernetic technology is deadly. Her helmet contains
subatomic "Pym Particles" enabling her to shrink to one-half inch size and
return to normal size at will. [For boss strategy, see walkthrough, M2: L3]
===============================================================================
VIII. Secrets/Codes
===============================================================================
To go directly to the final boss with full armor, full weapons and full boost,
enter one of the following codes into the password screen:
One player: C04A770777777 Two Player: C02A77X777777
7777777777777 7777777777777
If you want to restart the game (go back to the title screen) press the
following while playing: Start + A + B + C
===============================================================================
IX. Information
===============================================================================
Credits and Sources:
Patrick Lauron sent me the correct name of the boss which I had previously
called "Mystery Man X" - major thanks for the correction.
AstroBlue provided the nice ASCII logo of the game at the top of the guide,
so major thanks for that.
Also thanks to CJayC (http://www.gamefaqs.com) for hosting this guide and all
of my others on his web site.
I'd also like to give credit to Acclaim for making the game, and the game
itself for the threat assessments.
Contact Information:
If you need to contact me about something regarding this guide or any of my
others, send your e-mails to: sdallas19@yahoo.com.
If you are a webmaster wanting to post this guide on your web site, please
contact me first.
Legal Disclaimer:
This document is Copyright 2001-2002 by Dallas Scott. All rights reserved.
It may not be reproduced in any form (including electronically) without
advance permission from the author. This guide and its author are in no way
affiliated with the makers of this game.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This document Copyright 2001-2002 by Dallas Scott.
-EOF-
