Platoon (USA) (Rev 1)

Platoon for the NES is a side-scrolling action game combined with overhead view segments, based on the famous war film of the same name. Players take on the role of an American soldier, tasked with surviving and completing missions amidst the brutal setting of the Vietnam War.

Much of the gameplay takes place in a side-scrolling format, where players navigate through environments such as jungles, villages, and underground tunnels. The primary objective is to eliminate enemy soldiers, avoid deadly traps, and find a path to the end of each stage. The soldier is equipped with a basic rifle with unlimited ammunition. Additionally, players can collect special weapons like grenades, a flamethrower, and landmines, each with limited uses and varying effectiveness in specific situations.

Enemies include Viet Cong soldiers hiding in the foliage, snipers, and various types of traps such as punji sticks, tripwires, or landmines. Players need to be cautious and react quickly to avoid taking damage. The HUD displays the soldier's health bar, which can be replenished by picking up medical kits scattered throughout the levels.

Some stages transition to an overhead perspective, creating a maze-like experience where players must navigate through caves or complex areas, all while still encountering enemies and traps. This unique aspect adds variety and requires good directional sense from the player. Platoon is known for its high difficulty, demanding patience and good skills from players to overcome its challenges.