Chopper Raid

Chopper Raid is a 1982 top-down action game for the Commodore VIC-20, developed by Mark Turmell and published by Bubble Bus Software. Players take on the role of a helicopter pilot on a rescue mission to save prisoners of war from enemy territory. The objective is to navigate through treacherous terrain, destroy enemy vehicles, and evade enemy fire while collecting fuel canisters to keep the helicopter flying. The game features five levels, each with unique challenges and objectives, requiring strategic skills to maneuver through obstacles such as mountains, forests, and enemy bases. Rescue as many prisoners as possible while managing fuel and avoiding destruction.

VIC-20

Released in 1982 for the Commodore VIC-20, Chopper Raid required a 3-kilobyte memory expansion cartridge to run, a common requirement for more ambitious titles of the era. The game features smooth and responsive controls for its time, making it easy for players to focus on the action. Graphics utilise the VIC-20's colour capabilities effectively, adding to the immersive experience. The game's difficulty ramps up as players progress, testing skill and reflexes and adding replay value as players try to beat their high scores and complete all five levels without losing a life. A notable feature is the "Co-pilot" multiplayer mode, where two players could work together to rescue prisoners—a unique and innovative feature for the era. Despite the system's hardware limitations, Chopper Raid stands as a compelling and enjoyable title in the VIC-20's library, offering a straightforward rescue mission experience.