Bionic Commando (US set 2)
Inside Bionic Commando (US set 2)
Bionic Commando (US set 2) is a run and gun arcade platformer released by Capcom in 1987. Originally titled Top Secret in Japan, this was the first game in the Bionic Commando series. It was designed by Tokuro Fujiwara, who previously worked on the grappling-hook-based Roc'n Rope and the classic Commando. The music was composed by Harumi Fujita and runs on the Yamaha YM2151 sound chip. This US set 2 revision is one of several regional variations of the original arcade board.
The player controls a soldier equipped with a bionic arm that fires a grappling hook. Instead of jumping, you swing from platforms, ceilings, and ledges to navigate vertical and horizontal stages. Combat involves shooting enemies while managing your hook's retraction and momentum. The core loop involves clearing screens of foes, collecting weapon power-ups and items, and facing bosses at the end of each level. The hook mechanic is the star here - it replaces traditional jumping and requires timing and precision.
This game stands out for its unique grappling mechanic, which was ahead of its time and still feels fresh today. The arcade version is more simple and direct than later console ports, with a focus on quick reflexes and screen clearing. If you enjoy classic Capcom action games or want to see where the bionic arm originated, this is a fun and challenging piece of arcade history. It's a quick play but hard to master, and the US set 2 version is a solid way to experience it.
How to Play Bionic Commando (US set 2) Online
Getting Started
When you first start Bionic Commando, you are dropped into a side-scrolling stage with enemies approaching from both sides. Your main tool is the bionic arm - pressing the attack button (S) fires the hook upward or horizontally. To swing, aim the hook at a ceiling or ledge and hold the direction you want to swing. Release the button to let go. You cannot jump in the traditional way; movement is entirely about hooking and swinging.
The core gameplay is to advance through each level by defeating enemies and collecting items like weapon upgrades and health. The hook is also used to grab hanging platforms and to reach higher areas. Be careful with timing when swinging over pits - a mistimed release means falling. Bosses appear at the end of each level and require you to use your hook and gun together. The game is straightforward but demands practice to master the grappling technique.
If you are new, start by getting comfortable with hooking onto simple ceilings and moving left or right. Offensive items like spread shot and three-way shot appear from enemy drops or item containers. The D-pad controls movement and hook aim direction. There is no save feature - this is an old-school arcade game meant to be completed in one sitting. If you die, you can continue by inserting credits (the default key to simulate coin insert is the 5 key, but in the emulator you may use the in-game menu).
Bionic Commando (US set 2) Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: Joystick / Movement
- X: Button 1
- S: Button 2
- Z: Button 3
- A: Button 4
- Q: Button 5
- E: Button 6
- Enter: Start / 1P
- V: Coin / Insert
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