Unlike most video game companies, one company was ruled by the inspiration of the movies of yesteryear. Cinemaware had its heyday in the early nineties, and published several games that were based on monster movies, World War II movies, and medieval epics, to name a few. One of its most exciting games, Rocket Ranger, is largely unknown today but deserves recognition for its plot and playability.

Concept

Rocket Ranger was set during World War II and focuses on the Germans’ attempted subjugation of Europe. As the game progresses, the protagonist (Rocket Ranger) must attempt to prevent the Nazis from gaining too much of a stronghold. He operates from Fort Dix, and uses his rocket pack to fly around the world to complete a variety of missions that each help combat the enemy. One of the game’s plot devices involves the idea that the moon is a source of “lunarium” – a coveted mineral that both powers the Germans’ war machine and the player’s rocket pack.

Plot

At the game’s outset, the Nazis only control Germany, but as time passes, they control more and more countries. The player flies to various countries and completes tasks like punching out a German guard and shooting down zeppelins. To determine which country to fly to, the player must use a decoder wheel that determines the correct amount of lunarium to use. This wheel was actually designed by Cinemaware to be a somewhat unobtrusive form of copy protection, since without it, the player cannot control his direction.

Significance

Rocket Ranger was praised for its stirring music, sharp writing, and variety of action sequences. It certainly pays homage to many World War II movies, but adds its own unique blend of humor and even pathos as the player encounters both funny and dire situations. Though difficult, the game also features a rewarding ending that makes the struggle worthwhile.