G.I. Joe (Arcade) Playthrough

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Published on June 15, 2025 11:25:44 PM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBa_dyk4tbM

Game:

G.I. Joe (1992)

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Playthrough of G.I. Joe, Konami's 1992 third-person rail shooter for the Arcades.

Konami's 1992 arcade game G.I. Joe is a fast-paced, third-person rail shooter based on the popular Hasbro toy line and animated series. It allows players to take on the role of classic G.I. Joe team members—Duke, Snake Eyes, Scarlett, or Roadblock—as they battle Cobra forces across a variety of explosive environments. Staying true to the over-the-top style of the franchise, the game emphasizes nonstop action, large-scale destruction, and a colorful, exaggerated presentation that captures the feel of the cartoon series.

Gameplay is viewed from a third-person, over-the-shoulder perspective, with the player characters constantly running forward through enemy-filled environments. Using a mounted joystick or gun-style controller depending on the cabinet, players move a targeting reticle across the screen to shoot enemies, vehicles, and obstacles. Each character also has access to a limited number of powerful missiles that can clear the screen of enemies. The game supports up to four players simultaneously, with cooperative play enhancing the chaotic action and encouraging team-based strategies.

Stages in G.I. Joe are set in diverse locations, including enemy bases, snowy mountains, city streets, and airborne assault zones. Players face off against waves of Cobra troopers, tanks, helicopters, and a series of boss characters taken from the franchise, such as Destro, the Baroness, and Cobra Commander. Each boss encounter is marked by flashy cut-ins and catchphrases that add to the comic book-style energy of the game. The pacing is relentless, with little downtime between waves of enemies and explosions constantly filling the screen.

Visually, the game is vibrant and detailed, with large character sprites, smooth animation, and dynamic backgrounds that scroll rapidly to match the action. The sound design features booming effects, digitized voice samples, and a high-energy soundtrack that keeps the adrenaline high throughout each mission. The presentation is polished and loud, much like Konami’s other licensed arcade hits of the era, such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Simpsons.

G.I. Joe was never ported to home consoles, which has contributed to its relative obscurity outside arcade circles, but it remains a memorable title for those who encountered it. Its combination of intense action, faithful use of the G.I. Joe license, and well-executed multiplayer gameplay make it a standout among early '90s arcade shooters. It reflects Konami's ability to blend strong arcade design with the appeal of beloved pop culture franchises.