AbstractOne of Capcom's all-time great franchises returns with this re-envisioned modern version of Bionic Commando.
ESRB rating
 |
Blood and Gore, Strong Language, Violence |
Full descriptionAlthough they have the same title, the 2009 high-def Xbox 360 version of Bionic Commando is a sequel to the 1988 8-bit game for Nintendo Entertainment System -- at least as far as the slightly re-envisioned story goes. Players return to the role of Nathan "R.A.D." Spencer, a heroic veteran soldier who has been enhanced with a powerful, extendable, metallic arm. The hero can use his arm to grab objects or attack enemies at a distance, to pull himself upwards to the ceiling or lower himself down, and to propel himself through an area at high speed, horizontally and vertically, by swinging from one handhold to the next.
After infiltrating the headquarters of the group known as the Imperialists and single-handedly foiling an elaborate plot to revive the greatest evil in modern history, Nathan Spencer should have been hailed forevermore as a hero. Instead, he is betrayed by the leader of the government he served and he is sentenced to death for crimes he did not commit. Yet on the day of his execution, fate steps in again: A terrorist attack of mass destruction turns the city to rubble, leaving those who betrayed the hero in need of his services once more. And so, Spencer's role reverses, from scapegoat soldier to humankind's best hope for survival: the Bionic Commando.
In addition to the single-player campaign, online multiplayer matches feature bionically enhanced versions of deathmatch, king of the hill, and other time-tested modes of play. In single- or multiplayer games, many approaches are available in combat. Shooting is usually an option, and a commando can hold enemies at a distance as he peppers them with gunfire. The arm's grappling hook-like hand itself can be used as a weapon, at any distance. The arm can lift heavy objects, even when fully extended, allowing the hero to hold something over an enemy and then let gravity do the dirty work. Unlike earlier iterations in Capcom's Bionic Commando line, the game is rated M by the ESRB for its presentation of violence, blood, and coarse language.
Editorial reviewSource:
AmazonBionic Commando is back, now on the Xbox 360, 20 years after the NES classic was initially released. And returning with it is the swinging bionic arm game mechanic that made it so popular and critically acclaimed. Bionic Commando makes the move to 3D, and gamers will be able to grapple, swing, and scale a giant environment filled with buildings, canyons, and more.

There are many creative uses for your bionic arm. View larger. |

Being able to swing and shoot is an essential skill. View larger. |

Freely explore Ascension City and its outskirts. View larger. |

Ten players can get it on the action at the same time. View larger. |
Nathan Spencer is Back Bionic Commando takes place 10 years after the 1988 game, with Nathan Spencer again the protagonist. Voiced by Mike Patton, ex-Faith No More singer, Spencer is betrayed by his government, falsely accused of murder and sentenced to execution. Just prior to his execution, however, the city is bombed and Spencer is asked to track down the terrorists in return for his freedom.
Bionic Arm Offers New Control Possibilities
Like in the original game, the bionic arm is what separates Bionic Commando from other games. With it, you can swing between buildings, grapple onto ledges and zip up, walk walls, pull apart the landscape, throw heavy objects, attack enemies, and more.
Giant, Sweeping World to Explore
As you swing around with your bionic arm, you'll be subjected to beautifully detailed scenery that ranges from Ascension City and its bridges and skyscrapers, to outdoor environments like canyons. By mastering different swinging techniques, players will be able to reach different areas and target enemies while mid-swing or even hanging upside down. If you misjudge your swing by even a little bit, you might find yourself plunging to your doom.
Swinging Multiplayer Fun for up to Ten Players
Bionic Commando allows up to 10 players at a time to get in on the swinging fun, finding new ways and techniques with the bionic arm to dispatch your friends and enemies. Maps are designed with the swing and gun game mechanic in mind, rewarding players who are adept at simultaneously swinging and aiming.
Bionic Commando is an updated and beautiful take on the classic, bringing the core elements of the 8-bit original into a beautiful, 3D world. Fans of the classic and newcomers alike will delight at the unique game play options that the bionic arm afford.
Special featuresHigh-def 3D combat adventure inspired by NES original
Reach out and clobber someone -- with your giant metal arm!
Swing through deserted city streets, leaving a wake of destruction
Save the world from the terrorist organization known as Bio-Rain
High-speed, high-adrenaline multiplayer battle in three dimensions