Commodore 64 + Commando

Commando: The Arcade Shooter

The Commodore 64 (C64), launched in 1982, remains one of the most beloved and best-selling home computers ever produced. Known for its impressive graphics, rich sound, and vast software library, the C64 was a dominant force in the 1980s home computing and gaming markets. Among the many games ported to the C64 was Commando, an intense, vertically scrolling run-and-gun shooter originally developed by Capcom as an arcade hit in 1985. This article explores the Commodore 64’s hardware capabilities, the adaptation of Commando, and the impact both had on gaming culture. Originally released by Capcom in 1985, Commando was a top-down, vertically scrolling arcade shooter where the player controlled a soldier fighting through enemy territory.

Key Features:

• Fast-paced action with continuous upward scrolling.

• Shooting and grenade-throwing mechanics.

• Enemy soldiers, tanks, and gun emplacements.

• Increasing difficulty across stages.

The game was praised for its intense gameplay, tight controls, and memorable music.

Commando on the Commodore 64

Given the C64’s popularity, Commando was soon ported to it by software houses such as Elite Systems.

Technical Adaptation:

• Graphics:
  The C64 version used hardware sprites to render the player, enemies, and bullets smoothly. While the arcade’s detail was toned down, the game retained recognizable characters and environments.

• Scrolling:
  Vertical scrolling was challenging on 8-bit hardware but achieved smoothly through clever programming and the VIC-II’s capabilities.

• Sound:
  The SID chip delivered an energetic soundtrack and sound effects inspired by the arcade version, though simplified.

• Controls:
  Supported joystick or keyboard play, providing responsive shooting and movement.

Gameplay Experience

Players navigated their commando through enemy-infested terrain, shooting soldiers, avoiding fire, and throwing grenades to clear groups of enemies. The game’s difficulty ramped steadily, demanding quick reflexes and strategic use of grenades.

The combination of fast action and the C64’s responsive controls made Commando a standout title in the shooter genre on the platform.

It was a commercial success in Europe, where the C64 had a particularly strong market.