Shock Troopers

Shock Troopers is a run-and-gun shooter that first appeared in arcades around 1997.

In Shock Troopers, you choose from four distinct commandos, each with their own look and starting weapon, to tackle missions across various war-torn landscapes. You navigate the screen from a fixed top-down viewpoint, firing your primary weapon in eight directions. Beyond your standard machine gun, you can pick up limited-use heavy weapons like flamethrowers or rocket launchers. A crucial mechanic is the grenade toss, allowing you to lob explosives over obstacles or into groups of enemies, adding a tactical layer to the constant gunfire. The pace of Shock Troopers keeps you moving as you advance through stages, clearing out enemy soldiers, vehicles, and boss encounters.

A notable aspect of Shock Troopers is the inclusion of vehicle segments. At certain points, you'll hop into a jeep or a helicopter, changing the gameplay dynamic and offering new ways to deal with the opposition. The game also features destructible elements in the environment, sometimes revealing hidden paths or items. The objective across these varied missions in Shock Troopers is always clear: push forward, eliminate threats, and achieve the mission goal, often culminating in a confrontation with a large, screen-filling boss.