Bionic Commando

Get to grips with Bionic Commando

Ever wanted to have a giant, bionic arm? Capcom puts you into the swing of things with its return to a platform adventure classic, Bionic Commando.

It's been a tough time for Nathan Spencer. The bionically enhanced super solider defeated the fascistic Imperials in Bionic Commando Rearmed, only to be rewarded with imprisonment by the government and sentenced to death under a conspiracy. Spencer's lucky break comes in the guise of a temporary pardon to work for the government again - although it's only due to a terrible act of terrorism...

Ascension to action

Ascension City has been nearly wiped out due to an experimental weapon which has reduced the once thriving settlement to rubble. With a large majority of its population gone, it's up to you to find out the purpose behind the attack, claimed by a group called Bio-Reign, and also what's happened to Spencer's estranged wife.

Which is all an excuse to take part in some high-vaulting, bionic arm swinging, weapons shooting action. Bionic Commando is all about intense action adventuring, where you explore the ruins of Ascension City in an effort to defeat all who stand in your path.

While you start off without your trusty bionic arm, you'll soon find yourself reacquainted. And after a comprehensive tutorial, you're armed with the knowledge of how to use it for everything from swinging around the city and hacking machines, to grabbing foes and bits of scenery to use offensively. All complimenting your ability to shoot from a variety of firearms, throw explosives and leap into unarmed combat.

"Don't disturb my friend - he's dead tired."

The myriad of moves at your disposal are introduced in stages after a little tutorial practice with them, while the basic controls themselves are nicely explained during the loading screens, giving detailed explanations for each button.

It's a good way to make sure you get the hang of the initially challenging control set-up, which offers an exciting scope thanks to the diversity of Spencer's bionic arm. Once mastered it becomes second nature to traverse the radioactive remains of the city and leap into battle in one effortless groove.

Adding to the main mission at hand, there are also lots of micro challenges to help you get used to Spencer's many actions, where you gain bonuses for completing them. Increased armour and better accuracy are the included rewards for doing things such as killing a certain number of grunts or taking out enemies in a specific way with a certain weapon. There are also collectibles which unlock extras in the game.

Tarzan's old news

With its satisfying combat and nice references to the 1988 original (including a remixed music score), Bionic Commando has enough to attract fans of good old fashioned gameplay, while remaining visually attractive enough to draw in newcomers. Its on and offline multiplayer modes, throwing you into Deathmatches and Capture the Flag style battles for up to ten players, also provide plenty of replay value once you're done with the challenging main quest.

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to get back into action with one of the original kings of swing. Tune up your bionic arm and grab this one for your collection.