Commando
Video Archive
Commando – The C64 Arcade Conversion with an Unforgettable SID Tune
Released in 1985 by Elite Systems for the Commodore 64, Commando is a vertical-scrolling run-and-gun shooter that adapts Capcom’s arcade hit for home computers. You take on the role of Super Joe, a lone soldier battling through enemy territory with the mission to survive, push forward, and rescue captured hostages. The gameplay is fast, direct, and relentless. Armed with a machine gun and limited grenades, you must clear waves of enemy soldiers, avoid ambushes from bunkers, and keep moving upward through hostile environments. With only three stages, the focus is firmly on reflexes, positioning, and efficient use of firepower rather than exploration or progression systems. On the Commodore 64, Commando delivers solid sprite work and confident vertical scrolling that keeps the action flowing smoothly. The real highlight is Rob Hubbard’s iconic soundtrack, which injects urgency and atmosphere into every firefight and remains one of the most celebrated pieces of C64 game music.
Game Overview
About the Game
Released in 1985 by Elite Systems for the Commodore 64, Commando is a vertical-scrolling run-and-gun shooter that adapts Capcom’s arcade hit for home computers. You take on the role of Super Joe, a lone soldier battling through enemy territory with the mission to survive, push forward, and rescue captured hostages. The gameplay is fast, direct, and relentless. Armed with a machine gun and limited grenades, you must clear waves of enemy soldiers, avoid ambushes from bunkers, and keep moving upward through hostile environments. With only three stages, the focus is firmly on reflexes, positioning, and efficient use of firepower rather than exploration or progression systems. On the Commodore 64, Commando delivers solid sprite work and confident vertical scrolling that keeps the action flowing smoothly. The real highlight is Rob Hubbard’s iconic soundtrack, which injects urgency and atmosphere into every firefight and remains one of the most celebrated pieces of C64 game music.
Game Manual
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews · 11
Contemporary average 76% · range 49–92.5%
C&VG
Reviewed by Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
C&VG
Reviewed by Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
Commodore Force
Reviewed by Encore budget release
Read Original Review
Commodore Horizons
Reviewed by Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
Commodore User
Reviewed by Mike Pattenden. Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
Commodore User
Reviewed by Encore budget release
Read Original Review
Info
Reviewed by Mark R. Brown
Scan Not Available
Your Computer
Reviewed by Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
Zzap!64
Reviewed by Gary Liddon, Gary Penn & Julian Rignall. Elite full-price release
Read Original Review
Zzap!64
Reviewed by Gordon Houghton. Encore budget release
Read Original Review
Zzap!64
Read Original Review
Game Music
Game Music
See the pixels
Gallery
Continue Exploring
Browse Related Archives
Browse this game's genres and collections, or return to the full games library.
The CCG Community
Rate & Review This Game
Share your verdict with other Commodore fans. Everyone can read the reviews; members must log in to rate or comment.
Member Reviews
Preparing reviews…
Need New Commodore Peripherals?
Compatible hardware and controllers for modern retro setups.
Community Rating Loading rating…
Preparing ratings…