Ikari Warrios

About

Originally released on arcade terminal, Ikari Warriors quickly became a classic of the genre run-and-gun. The game takes place in a hostile jungle where the players, embodying Ralf and Clark, have to face waves of enemies while advancing towards their ultimate goal: the destruction of the enemy fortress.

The MSX2 version, although technically limited compared to the arcade, is distinguished by improved graphics. The sprites of the characters and vehicles are detailed, and the decorations feature rich colour palettes. The game includes several levels, each filled with armed enemies, turrets, and even tanks, which players can fly to gain firepower.

One of the strengths of this adaptation is its co-operative gameplay (via alternating, for lack of simultaneous multiplayer mode), which focuses on strategy and resource management such as ammunition and grenades. The game remains difficult, demanding reflexes and planning to survive enemy assaults.

Despite some limitations, such as a sometimes reduced fluidity or a simplified sound compared to the arcade, this version is a must for retro action fans and an essential addition to any MSX2 collection.

• Film inspiration : The game is strongly inspired by the film Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985). Besides, the Japanese title of the game is « Ikari », which means « anger » or « fury »echoing the Japanese title of the film, « Rambo: Ikari no Dasshutsu » (Rambo: The Furious Leak).
• Innovative rotary joysticks (Arcade version): Ikari Warriors stands out by using 12-position rotary joysticks, allowing players to move their character in one direction while pulling in another. This innovation offered a more dynamic and strategic gaming experience.
• Commercial success : The game was a huge success in arcade. In Japan, it was the second most profitable table game of 1986. In London, he ranked third among the most profitable arcade games in the same year. In the United States, he was one of the five most profitable dedicated arcade games in 1986 and 1987.
• Apparitions in other games : The main characters, Ralf and Clark, were integrated into other SNK franchises. They can be played in the series The King of Fighters and appear in Metal Slug 6 and Metal Slug 7.
• Multiple ports : Ikari Warriors has been used on many platforms including Apple II, Commodore 64, Atari 2600, Atari 7800, Amiga, Atari ST, ZX Spectrum and NES. Each version had its own features, reflecting the capabilities and limitations of the respective systems.
• Origin of Character Names : In the Japanese version, the main characters are named Ralf and Clark. However, in the American and European versions, their names have been changed to Paul and Vince. In addition, the military commander whom the player must rescue is named General Kawasaki in the Japanese version, with reference to SNK founder Eikichi Kawasaki and Colonel Cook in the Western versions, with reference to Tradewest founder Leland Cook.