Platoon

Game review

Released in 1988, the DOS game Platoon is an action-packed adaptation of the critically acclaimed film of the same name, which dives deep into the harrowing experiences of a squad of five soldiers during the Vietnam War. This game uniquely captures the essence and intensity of the movie by putting players in control of the squad members, each facing the brutal realities of warfare in the dense jungles of Vietnam.

In Platoon, players navigate through various segments that mirror key scenes from the film, beginning with a challenging side-scrolling journey through the jungle. This initial stage demands strategic navigation as players dodge hazards, cross paths both horizontally and vertically, and overcome obstacles by jumping or ducking. Critical missions such as blowing up a bridge and locating vital items in a village set the stage for the intense challenges ahead. The game heightens the sense of danger with booby traps, enemy airstrikes, and confrontations with ground soldiers, encapsulating the perilous nature of their mission.

Transitioning from the side-scrolling action, players are then thrust into a first-person 3D section within a network of tunnels. This segment introduces a change in gameplay mechanics, offering three distinct control methods to adapt to different situations, including a cross-hair targeting system for combat and a room search function. This shift not only diversifies the gameplay experience but also immerses players in the claustrophobic and disorienting environment of the tunnels, heightening the tension and replicating the soldiers' uncertainty.

The game further escalates the stakes as players defend a bunker overnight, using a limited supply of flares to identify and eliminate incoming enemies before they can mount an attack. This segment requires quick reflexes and strategic use of resources to survive the night.

One of the game's most intense moments is inspired by the film's jungle airstrike scene. Players are given a mere two minutes to navigate through the jungle to a safe position, relying on a compass for guidance. This high-pressure scenario captures the chaos and urgency of evading an airstrike, pushing players to make split-second decisions to ensure their survival.