Game:

Atomic Robo-Kid (1988)

Duration: 5:40

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Atomic Robo-Kid Special is the 1989 PCE adaptation of the original Arcade game, "Atomic Robo-Kid", developed by UPL in 1989, though the PCE game is listed as being developed in 1990. The "Special" just means that it was adapted from the Arcade game and redesigned to suit the strengths of the PC Engine, with altered level designs, graphics, music, and stage order, rather than being a straight conversion. Atomic Robo-Kid is one of UPL's most well-known titles and was ported (as well as in the process of being ported only to be cancelled) to many platforms.

The story is the same as always. Here's the excerpt from Wikipedia:

"In the 21st century, a blast of cosmic radiation bombarded Terra-12, a deep-space outpost of Earth, hideously mutating all transplanted life. A fleet of savage beings followed the radiation wave and invaded the planet, and began the systematic destruction of all remaining sentient life. Years of battling the alien 'governors' have gone by, and now only one hope survives to avenge the desperate terran colonists."

The game takes place across 25 stages or "Acts", where you play as the titular Atomic Robo-Kid and walk and/or fly your way through forests, factories, ruins, and catacombs while defeating a variety of enemies and finding various secrets. The game is best known for its variety of levels, large bosses, and unconventional shooting mechanics where you have free flight through levels and can backtrack to an extent (if you desire). You have access to four primary weapons which vary in their usage and are useful for different situations (a powerful straight shot, a useful spreadshot, a powerful bomb which can even destroy enemy fire, and a three-way shot) and can get other power-ups to increase the power of existing weapons as well as to move faster or get more points. You can also increase your maximum health by defeating bosses.

The only cumbersome aspect of the game is that you can "strafe", but to do so requires you to hold down the button that also changes weapons, so you have to think of the direction and weapon you're gonna use beforehand. It's a necessary skill to master. The game has good audio/visuals for a PCE game and is a great adaptation of the Arcade game. This is a video of the game in action. Enjoy.

Basic Format: Turbo Chip / HuCard