Devastators (Arcade) Playthrough

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Published on April 20, 2025 12:00:00 AM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5RYvw_x5Z8

Game:

Devastators (1988)

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Playthrough of Konami's 1988 run and gun game for the Arcades, Devastators.

Devastators is a 1988 arcade game developed and published by Konami, offering a unique twist on the run-and-gun genre with a forward-scrolling, behind-the-back perspective that set it apart from the more traditional side-scrolling shooters of its time. Set in a modern military context, players take control of elite commandos tasked with storming enemy bases, dodging gunfire, and taking out waves of soldiers, tanks, helicopters, and fortified gun emplacements across a series of war-torn environments.

The game’s most distinctive feature is its pseudo-3D viewpoint, which simulates depth as the player character moves forward into the screen. This visual effect creates a sense of immersion and intensity rarely seen in 2D shooters of the era, with backgrounds scaling in size as players advance through jungle paths, deserts, and enemy compounds. Movement is restricted to left and right dodging along a horizontal plane, while holding the fire button locks the character in place to allow for precise aiming, encouraging a balance of offense and evasion.

Gameplay is fast-paced and often brutal, with waves of enemies attacking from all directions. The screen quickly fills with bullets, rockets, and explosions, demanding constant movement and sharp reflexes. Power-ups such as rocket launchers and grenades provide temporary firepower boosts, which are essential for taking down heavily armored foes or clearing the screen during chaotic moments. The action escalates steadily, culminating in intense boss battles where players must learn patterns and time their attacks to survive.

Visually, Devastators boasts detailed sprite work, smooth animations, and a gritty, militaristic aesthetic that leans into the action movie vibe of the late '80s. Explosions are frequent and satisfying, and the soundtrack adds urgency with its dramatic, adrenaline-fueled compositions. The game was also notable for supporting two-player cooperative play, allowing friends to tackle missions together and cover each other in the heat of battle.

Though not as widely remembered as some of Konami's other arcade hits, Devastators remains a fascinating experiment in early 3D-like presentation within a 2D framework. Its forward-scrolling gameplay was ahead of its time, and its intense combat and distinctive perspective helped it stand out in a crowded field of military shooters. For fans of classic arcade action, it’s a lesser-known but worthy entry in Konami’s late-'80s catalog.