Jackal Game: A Classic Run and Gun Arcade Game by Konami
If you are a fan of retro arcade games, you might have heard of Jackal game. It is one of the most iconic run and gun games ever made by Konami, the same company that brought us classics like Contra, Metal Gear, and Castlevania. In this article, we will explore what Jackal game is, why it is popular, how to play it, and where to find it.
Introduction
What is Jackal game?
Jackal game, also known as Top Gunner in some regions, is an overhead run and gun video game that was released for arcades in 1986. The game follows the mission of an elite group of four soldiers who drive two armed jeeps into enemy territory to rescue prisoners of war (POWs). The game can be played by up to two players simultaneously, each controlling one jeep. The jeeps are equipped with a machine gun turret that always shoots northward, and a grenade or missile launcher that can be aimed in any direction. The game features various enemies, obstacles, power-ups, and levels that challenge the player’s skills and reflexes.
Why is Jackal game popular?
Jackal game is popular for several reasons. First of all, it is one of the earliest examples of a run and gun genre, which combines shooting action with driving mechanics. The game offers a fast-paced and thrilling gameplay experience that requires both strategy and coordination. Second, the game has a simple but appealing graphics and sound design that create a realistic and immersive atmosphere. The game uses bright colors, detailed sprites, and smooth animations to depict the different environments and characters. The game also has a catchy soundtrack and sound effects that enhance the mood and tension of the game. Third, the game has a high replay value due to its difficulty and variety. The game has four different areas with different enemies and obstacles, as well as multiple endings depending on how many POWs are rescued. The game also has a cooperative mode that allows two players to work together and compete for high scores.
Gameplay
How to play Jackal game?
The gameplay of Jackal game is simple but challenging. The player controls an armed jeep with an eight-way joystick and two buttons. The first button fires the machine gun turret, while the second button launches grenades or missiles. The player must maneuver the jeep across rough terrain filled with enemies and booby traps to reach the POW camps. The player can rescue up to eight POWs at a time by driving over them. Some POWs will give power-ups or ammunition to the player when rescued. Once the jeep is full, the player must drive to the nearest heliport where a helicopter will pick up the POWs and drop off new drivers. The player will receive more points for rescuing more POWs in succession. The player must also avoid getting hit by enemy fire or crashing into obstacles, as this will damage the jeep and eventually destroy it. The player has three lives to complete the mission.
What are the features of Jackal game?
Weapons and power-ups
The jeep has two weapons: a machine gun turret and a grenade or missile launcher. The machine gun turret has weaker firepower but a faster firing rate, while the grenade or missile launcher can destroy most enemy vehicles and structures in one shot. The grenade or missile launcher can be upgraded up to three times by rescuing certain POWs. The first upgrade changes the grenade launcher into a missile launcher, which has a longer range. The second upgrade increases the missile’s speed and power. The third upgrade allows the missile to split into two or four directions when it hits an enemy or obstacle.
The player can also collect power-ups from crates or helicopters that appear randomly on the screen
Enemies and obstacles
The game has a variety of enemies and obstacles that the player must face. The enemies include tanks, trucks, boats, helicopters, jets, soldiers, mines, turrets, and cannons. Some enemies can be destroyed with one shot, while others require multiple hits or can only be damaged by certain weapons. Some enemies can also fire back at the player or chase them down. The obstacles include walls, fences, gates, bridges, water, rocks, trees, and buildings. Some obstacles can be destroyed or crossed over by the player, while others are impassable or harmful. The player must avoid getting hit by enemy fire or crashing into obstacles, as this will damage the jeep and eventually destroy it. The player has three lives to complete the mission.
Levels and areas
The game does not have a traditional stage structure. Instead, the entire game takes place in one long continuous level that is divided into four different areas: the coast, the ruins, the lake, and the headquarters. Each area has its own theme and challenges. The coast is the starting point of the mission, where the player must fight their way through enemy camps and bunkers. The ruins are an ancient site with hidden traps and secrets. The lake is a large body of water with bridges and islands. The headquarters is the final destination of the mission, where the player must infiltrate the enemy base and destroy their ultimate weapon. Each area has a boss at the end that must be defeated to proceed to the next area.
Conclusion
What are the benefits of playing Jackal game?
Playing Jackal game can have many benefits for the player. First of all, it can improve the player’s hand-eye coordination and reflexes, as the game requires quick and precise movements and actions. Second, it can enhance the player’s strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, as the game requires planning and adapting to different situations and challenges. Third, it can provide entertainment and enjoyment for the player, as the game offers a fun and exciting gameplay experience that can be shared with a friend.
Where can you play Jackal game?
Jackal game is available on various platforms and devices. The original arcade version can be found in some retro arcades or online emulators. The NES version can be played on an NES console or a compatible device with an NES emulator. The game was also ported to other systems such as ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, IBM PC, mobile phone, and Xbox Live Arcade. You can also watch gameplay videos or reviews of Jackal game on YouTube or other websites.
If you are looking for a classic run and gun arcade game that will test your skills and thrill your senses, you should definitely try Jackal game by Konami. It is one of the best games of its genre and a timeless masterpiece that will never get old.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Jackal and Top Gunner?
Jackal and Top Gunner are two different names for the same game. Jackal is the original name used in Japan and Europe, while Top Gunner is an alternate name used in North America.
How many endings does Jackal game have?
Jackal game has two different endings depending on how many POWs are rescued by the player. If less than 70 POWs are rescued, the ending will show a message saying “Mission Incomplete” and a list of missing POWs. If 70 or more POWs are rescued, the ending will show a message saying “Mission Complete” and a list of rescued POWs.
How do I get more lives in Jackal game?
The player starts with three lives in Jackal game. The player can get more lives by earning enough points or by entering a cheat code. The player will get an extra life for every 50,000 points they score. The player can also enter a cheat code at the title screen by pressing Up + A + B on controller 1 and Down + A + B on controller 2 simultaneously. This will give the player 10 lives instead of three.
What is the ultimate weapon in Jackal game?
The ultimate weapon in Jackal game is a giant missile launcher that is hidden inside the enemy headquarters. It is guarded by four tanks that shoot fireballs at the player. The player must destroy the tanks and then shoot at the missile launcher until it explodes.
Who composed the music for Jackal game?
The music for Jackal game was composed by Shinya Sakamoto, Atsushi Fujio, Kiyohiro Sada, and Shigehiro Takenouchi. They were part of Kon ami’s sound team, which was known for creating memorable and catchy tunes for many of their games. The music for Jackal game is considered to be one of their best works, as it matches the mood and theme of the game perfectly.
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