Bionic Commando
Reviewed by John Healey
This is one game that clearly never received the attention or
acclaim that it deserved. This is one of the most original and
fresh games ever made for the NES. The engineers for this
game came up with a new concept (the bionic arm) and carried
it out to perfection. The only disappointing thing is that they
never came up with a follow up game for the NES.
Graphics 10 out of 10
The graphics in Bionic Commando are simply outstanding,
particularly considering that it was released way back in
1988. Just look at the mountains in some of the backgrounds,
the orange sky at sunset in one of the early stages, and the
detail of the rivets on the buildings and other structures.
Even the main character is well drawn and animated when
compared to other NES games at the time.
Music and Sound 10 out of 10
The music in this game is outstanding. It fits the environment
perfectly. The tunes never become irritating, unlike in many
other games, even after listening to them for long periods of
time. Some of the music has a sort of foreboding quality to it,
which fits the storyline and action in the game appropriately.
The sound effects for the bionic arm are also very well done,
with different sounds made when the arm shoots and when it
grapples onto something.
Game Challenge 9 out of 10
I would place this game in the hard category. Some of the levels
can be very challenging indeed, but with practice they can all be
beaten by most gamers. It takes a little while to become used
to how the bionic arm works, but once that skill is acquired the
game becomes much easier and more enjoyable.
Game Play-Fun 10 out of 10
The game play in Bionic Commando is second to none! Whoever
came up with the idea of getting around by using a bionic arm
instead of jumping was a genius. The game play is exceedingly
well thought out and executed to perfection.
Frustration
This game can be rather frustrating, particularly in level 6 where
perfect swinging technique is required. I played this level over
many times before I finally beat it, but what a feeling of satisfaction
when you do! Now it is easy to beat. It just takes a little practice.
Replayability 10 out of 10
This game is fun to play over and over again. The ending, in my
opinion, is the best for any video game for any system. I won't
give it away here, but see for yourself.
Game Value 10 out of 10
You can pick of this game at Funcoland or pawn shops for about
$5. For that price you can't go wrong. This game would be a steal
at $50. I would urge anybody who has not already tried this great
game to pick it up now while there are still a few copies floating
around. You won't be disappointed.
Overall 10 out of 10
As you can tell from all of my comments above, this is my favorite
video game, bar none. Too many of today's games rely on great
graphics to overcome weak game play. Bionic Commando's graphics
are very well done, the sound is excellent, and the game play is
outstanding. I give this game the highest recommendation and award
that is possible. I only wish they had made an adequate follow up. But
almost any follow-up would have been a disappointment after playing
the original.