In "Bionic Commando", you are the Bionic Commando, part commando, part... bionic.
Your bionic arm allows you hand on ceilings, swing on ledges, and grapple items, but, I'm assuming because of some misfortunate operating room debacle, you lack the ability to jump. As sad as that is, you do have a bionic arm, so use it! (It can deflect bullets, too!)
Well, this wouldn't be an adventure game if you didn't have to rescue someone. Typical, yes, but you soon discover there is a group of super villains with a super plan to create a super machine of ultimate doom and dissatisfaction.
In reality, the story is much more interesting with real depth and is presented as non-linear as any other game of its time and genre.
Between levels, you ride in a helicopter, defeating baddies and making your way to the next mission, which is one of your choice. Different levels grant different items and bonuses, but also require different items to acquire certain goals or items. There are 3 sections, and the levels within each section must be beat before moving to the next, but the levels within a section may be completed in any order.
Don't worry about the condition you begin the game in, our hero is certainly more bionic than commando at this point. Defeating enemies enables you to slowly increase your maximum
health, making you the ever-increasing threat to the poor pixelated punks programmed to stand in your way. You also find all sorts of toys as you progress, including new armours and weapons.
The graphics, though they show their age, are appealing. The game is vivid and the bright colours are utilized with great taste. There are varying palette themes within the game, so it doesn't ever begin to feel like you've been playing the same stage throughout. The sound is also done well, with music up to par with any other great classic and effects that sound terrific and are right on cue.
All in all, this title has an interesting story, innovative play, and the delivery of a true classic. The tunes are as fun as they come, and the colours are bright enough to hold the attention of individuals inflicted with even the most severe breed of ADD. Highly recommended to anyone who has ever liked a game, ever.
