Secret Command
A run‑and‑gun action arcade adaptation that sees a heavily armed commando take on an endless wave of enemies.
Description
Secret Command is essentially the Western localisation of the Japanese arcade game Ashura, and closely related to Rambo: First Blood Part II. In some regions the game was marketed under the Rambo license, with the protagonist sprite altered to resemble Sylvester Stallone.
The game presents overhead, vertically scrolling stages where players control a commando armed with a machine gun and grenades. The mechanics emphasise constant forward movement, shooting waves of enemies, and destroying obstacles. Grenades are limited but powerful, clearing groups of foes or breaking barriers. Cooperative two‑player mode allows simultaneous play, with both characters advancing through jungles, bases, and fortified enemy positions.
On the Master System, Secret Command adapts the arcade experience with simplified graphics but retains the core gameplay loop of relentless forward assault. The presentation situates its identity in 1980s action film genre. With military power, jungle backdrops, bunkers, and enemy soldiers clichés reinforcing its thematic link.
The game has a balance difficulty and straightforward design. It was valued as one of the Master System’s early action titles, offering arcade‑style gameplay in a home format. The cooperative mode was particularly great for its era. Secret Command is a good example how existing arcade properties in the 80s could be repurposed, sometimes under licensed IPs, across different markets.
