Front Line (Japan)

Front Line is an intense top-down action shooter released on the NES. In this game, players take on the role of a brave commando, fighting alone against enemy forces across various battlefields.

The gameplay of Front Line focuses on constant movement and quick reflexes. Your soldier is equipped with a basic rifle with unlimited ammunition and a limited supply of grenades. Grenades are highly effective weapons for clearing groups of enemies or destroying fortified structures like enemy tanks and bunkers.

A unique aspect of Front Line is the ability to control combat vehicles. During gameplay, the soldier can find and board a tank. While inside the tank, the player gains significantly more firepower, armor-piercing rounds, and improved damage resistance. However, the tank moves slower and presents a larger target. Players can freely enter and exit the tank at any time, creating an important strategic element: when to proceed on foot to dodge and throw grenades, and when to utilize the tank's power to clear paths.

Each stage in Front Line has a specific objective, typically advancing to the end of the screen, destroying an hostile base, or overcoming a major obstacle. Enemies include enemy infantry, tanks, and defensive gun emplacements. Players must skillfully evade incoming fire and counterattack. Upon being hit by a bullet or stepping on a mine, the soldier loses a life. The game requires players to carefully manage their grenade supply and make quick decisions about whether to proceed on foot or drive the tank to optimize combat effectiveness.

Front Line delivers a pure action experience with a fast pace, demanding players to have strong control skills and the ability to make rapid decisions in a challenging combat environment.