RoboCop (NES) Playthrough

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Longplay Center

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Published on November 4, 2024 3:59:23 AM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vam5MwDUId4

Game:

RoboCop (1988)

Duration: 0:00

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Playthrough of Data East's 1989 action game for the NES, RoboCop.

RoboCop for the NES, released in 1989, is an action-platformer that brings the iconic cyborg hero from the hit 1987 film to the small screen. Players take on the role of RoboCop, patrolling the crime-ridden streets of Detroit and taking on various enemies and bosses as they progress through levels. The game follows a loose adaptation of the movie's plot, including key moments where RoboCop faces off against thugs, rogue robots, and the formidable ED-209.

Gameplay is straightforward and involves side-scrolling combat where RoboCop must walk, jump, and shoot his way through stages. Equipped with his signature Auto-9 pistol, he can take out enemies from a distance, but the game’s mechanics also require strategic play, as RoboCop is unable to fire while moving. This limitation adds an element of tactical positioning and timing, making each confrontation more challenging. The game also includes hand-to-hand combat when RoboCop's gun is not available, which provides a change of pace but can be less effective against tougher enemies.

Each level features a mix of urban backdrops that capture the gritty, industrial feel of the original movie. The graphics are serviceable for an NES title, with recognizable depictions of RoboCop and his adversaries, though the color palette and environments can feel repetitive at times. The bosses, such as ED-209, are highlights in terms of both challenge and design, adding memorable set-pieces that keep the game interesting. The music, while simple, carries an intensity that matches the action on-screen, reinforcing the serious, high-stakes atmosphere.

The controls in RoboCop can feel a bit sluggish, reflecting the titular character’s deliberate and mechanical movements. This aspect adds authenticity but can be a source of frustration during faster-paced sections where precise movements are necessary. The challenge ramps up quickly, with enemies that appear frequently and can deplete RoboCop’s health in moments if players aren’t careful. Despite this, the game includes a life gauge that can be restored through pickups, providing some relief in the more punishing stages.

Overall, RoboCop for the NES is a blend of action and strategy that reflects the hero’s stoic, powerful persona. While its gameplay can be stiff and occasionally difficult, it captures the essence of the character and delivers an experience that fans of the movie and the action-platformer genre can appreciate. The game’s adherence to RoboCop's unyielding nature and its depiction of his crime-fighting mission make it a standout among NES titles inspired by films.