Retro Gaming Classics... 5 Classic Arcade Games From A Golden Era (80s: Part 1)
How does one properly do justice to a gaming era that at the time was at the start of the PC and Video revolution - an era with some of the most iconic gaming titles across various gaming platforms? For a glimpse into the rich history of gaming during the 80s and 90s read on...
Remarkably this was an era with a range of competing (and sometimes contrasting) technology while catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences - like Shoot Em Ups, 1st Person Shooters, Arcade Titles, etc.
Top-of-the-range graphics, sound, and UI were offered by the Commodore Amiga, The Atari ST, and the NES, with very slight variations in core storyline and gameplay - excluding the Joystick vs Keypad Controller which was a very delicate subject at the time.
This article looks at 5 key titles from this era, their impacts, and our memories of an era - full nostalgia is allowed, let's go full throttle revisiting these classics!
Operation Wolf
Release Year: 1987
Console/Platform: Arcade, NES, various home computers
Overview:
Operation Wolf is a classic arcade shooting game developed by Taito and released in 1987. It's known for its intense action, rapid-fire gameplay, and unique cabinet design that featured a machine gun-style light gun and quickly became an iconic title in the shooter genre, setting new standards for arcade gaming in the late 1980s.
Gameplay:
In Operation Wolf, players take on the role of a special forces operative tasked with rescuing hostages from a heavily fortified enemy base. The game is played from a first-person perspective and is set against a backdrop of military conflict, and you must navigate through various levels, each presenting different challenges and environments. Your mission is to eliminate enemy soldiers, vehicles, and weapons to progress through various stages.
The light gun controller allowed players to aim and shoot at the screen, creating an immersive and fast-paced gaming experience. Players needed to manage their ammunition and be strategic about when to reload, as running out of bullets could be fatal.
Key Features:
Realistic Gunplay: One of the standout features of Operation Wolf was its innovative use of a mounted Uzi replica as the game's controller. Players would physically aim and shoot at the screen, creating an immersive and interactive experience.
Multiple Weapons: Throughout the game, you have access to various weapons, including machine guns, grenades, and rocket launchers. Each weapon has its own unique advantages and use cases.
Varied Environments: Players would encounter different environments, from jungles to military bases, each with its own set of challenges.
Rapid-Fire Action: The game's fast-paced shooting action and hordes of enemies kept players engaged.
Rescue Missions: In addition to eliminating enemy soldiers, you must also rescue hostages by shooting their captors. Failing to do so results in the loss of valuable time.
Popularity and Influence:
Operation Wolf was exceptionally popular in arcades and helped pioneer the light gun shooter genre. Its realistic gun controller and fast-paced action made it a hit with gamers. The game's success led to the development of several sequels and spin-offs, including Operation Thunderbolt and Operation Wolf 3, all of which continued the franchise's tradition of high-intensity arcade shooting.
Operation Wolf was a commercial success and became one of Taito's most iconic games. Its popularity led to ports on various home gaming platforms, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
Legacy:
The game's success inspired a series of sequels and spin-offs, including Operation Thunderbolt and Operation Wolf 3. Operation Wolf is remembered as a classic arcade shooter and a pioneer in the light gun game genre.
It's impact can still be seen today in the popularity of first-person shooters and arcade-style shooting games and is fondly remembered as a classic title that brought a new level of realism and immersion to arcade gaming in the late 1980s, making it a standout in the era's gaming landscape.
Chase H.Q.
Release Year: 1988
Console/Platform: Arcade, Sega Master System, various home computers
Overview:
Chase H.Q. is an action-packed arcade racing game developed by Taito and released in 1988. It offered a unique twist to the racing genre by combining high-speed chases with elements of law enforcement.
Gameplay: In Chase H.Q., players take on the role of two police officers, Tony Gibson and Raymond Broady. Their mission is to chase down and apprehend criminals in their sports cars, who are identified as "Mad Bomber" and "The Viper." The game is divided into several stages, each representing a different location. The gameplay involves intense high-speed pursuits, with players attempting to catch up to the criminals while avoiding traffic and obstacles. Once you've closed the gap, you can ram into the criminal's car to bring it to a halt. The ultimate goal is to capture the criminal before time runs out.
Key Features:
Fast-Paced Action: Chase H.Q. was known for its high-speed chases and adrenaline-pumping gameplay.
Time Pressure: Each stage is a race against the clock, adding an extra layer of tension and excitement.
Unique Concept: The game's blend of racing and law enforcement made it stand out from other arcade racers of its time.
Popularity and Influence: Chase H.Q. became a hit in arcades due to its exciting gameplay and innovative premise. It also inspired a number of sequels and adaptations for various home gaming platforms.
Legacy: The game's success helped establish Taito as a prominent developer in the arcade racing genre. Chase H.Q. is remembered as a classic title that offered players an action-packed driving experience with a twist.
Test Drive II: The Duel Release Year: 1989 Console/Platform: Amiga, Atari ST, DOS, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and more.
Overview: Test Drive II: The Duel is an iconic racing game that hit the scene in 1989, developed by Accolade. It's renowned for its thrilling gameplay and variety of exotic sports cars, making it a must-play title for car enthusiasts.
Gameplay: In Test Drive II, players are placed in the driver's seat of some of the world's most coveted sports cars, including the Chevrolet Corvette, Lamborghini, and Porsche. The game is designed as an open-road point-to-point race against a computer-controlled opponent, or "The Duel."
Key Features:
Exotic Car Lineup: Test Drive II was celebrated for its impressive lineup of exotic cars, allowing players to experience the power and speed of vehicles they might never have the chance to drive in real life.
Scenic Routes: Unlike traditional circuit-style racing games, The Duel offers a unique experience by featuring various scenic routes that take players through diverse environments, from coastal roads to mountain passes.
Challenging AI: The "Duel" in the game's title isn't just for show; it refers to the challenging AI opponent. Winning required both skill and strategy.
Popularity and Influence:
Test Drive II: The Duel received praise for its realistic graphics, selection of cars, and gameplay. It helped set the standard for racing games in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The game's success led to numerous sequels, cementing its place in gaming history.
Legacy: While the graphics and gameplay of Test Drive II may seem dated by today's standards, its influence on the racing game genre is undeniable. It paved the way for more sophisticated and realistic racing simulations in the years to come and remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Kick Off 2
Release Year: 1990
Console/Platform: Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, MS-DOS, and more.
Overview: Kick Off 2 is a classic football (soccer) video game released in 1990. Developed by Dino Dini and published by Anco, it's the sequel to the original Kick Off game and is widely regarded as one of the best football games of its era.
Gameplay: Kick Off 2 offered a fast-paced and highly competitive football gaming experience. Players could choose from a variety of teams and compete in both friendly matches and tournaments. The game focused on precise ball control, passing, and scoring goals, making it a challenging but rewarding football simulator.
Key Features:
Two-Player Mode: Kick Off 2 was particularly known for its intense two-player mode. Friends could go head-to-head in thrilling matches, leading to memorable gaming sessions.
Advanced Ball Physics: The game introduced advanced ball physics for its time, which added an extra layer of realism to the gameplay. Players had to consider factors like wind speed and direction when taking shots.
Popularity and Influence:
Kick Off 2 gained immense popularity among football fans and gamers alike. Its emphasis on skillful ball control and competitive gameplay made it a standout title in the sports gaming genre. It became a benchmark for future football games.
Legacy: The legacy of Kick Off 2 lives on through its dedicated fan base and the influence it had on the development of football video games. Many gamers look back fondly on their time spent playing this classic, and it's still enjoyed today through emulators and re-releases.
Green Beret
Release Year: 1985
Console/Platform: Arcade, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and more.
Overview: Green Beret, also known as Rush'n Attack in North America, is a classic arcade-style action game released in 1985 by Konami. It quickly became a fan favorite due to its challenging gameplay and military theme.
Gameplay: In Green Beret, players control a commando who must infiltrate an enemy base to rescue hostages. The game is a side-scrolling action platformer where you need to fight off enemy soldiers and various obstacles using your combat skills and a knife. The goal is to reach the hostages and save them.
Key Features:
Weapon Variety: As you progress through the game, you can pick up different weapons, including guns and grenades, to aid you in your mission.
Time-Based: The game adds an extra layer of challenge by putting you on a timer. You must complete each level within the time limit, adding to the sense of urgency.
Popularity and Influence: Green Beret was well-received in arcades and on home computer platforms. Its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay made it a hit among gamers in the 1980s. The game's success paved the way for future side-scrolling action titles.
Legacy: While Green Beret might not be as widely recognized as some other classics, it remains an important part of arcade gaming history. It's remembered for its tough gameplay and the thrill of trying to rescue hostages while facing overwhelming odds.
For links to fan videos and gameplay see the links below
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