Desert Assault (also known as Thunder Zone in Japan) is a fast-paced run-and-gun arcade shooter released by Data East in 1991. You control a commando tasked with battling through enemy territory to stop a terrorist organization. With support for up to four players simultaneously, the game is heavily inspired by classics like Mercs, featuring an arsenal of upgradable weapons, screen-clearing bombs, and intense boss fights against heavily armored vehicles and aircraft.
How to Play
Your objective is to survive the waves of enemy soldiers and reach the end of each stage to defeat the boss. Use the directional keys to move your character. Press Z or X to fire your weapon, and use the other button to deploy a bomb when you are surrounded by enemies. You can insert virtual coins using Shift and press Enter to start the game.
Tips
- Focus your fire on enemies that appear from the sides or behind you, as they can quickly corner your character if left unchecked.
- Save your limited bombs for the end-of-level bosses or when you are completely swarmed by infantry; using them on regular groups is usually a waste.
- Pick up weapon icons dropped by defeated enemies or crates to upgrade your firepower, but be careful not to switch to a weapon you dislike during chaotic moments.
Leave a Comment / Review: