RoboCop

The two different RoboCop games for DOS

Ocean Software actually produced two different RoboCop games for DOS. One, aimed squarely at the American market, shows EGA graphics, credits Data East and Ocean and is very similar to the coin-op. The second one has CGA graphics, gives credit to Astros Productions and Ocean Software and follows the same layout as the 8 bit computer versions.

The Commodore 64 infamous bug

The C64 version of RoboCop has become infamous for being home of one of the most outrageous bug ever. After development, the entire fourth level of the game turned out to be a graphical mess due to a glitch, rendering it almost entirely unplayable. Thing is, Ocean apparently knew about that bug, but allegedly didn't want to delay the release of the game. So, instead of correcting it... they altered the timer on level three, making it impossible to complete in the given time, thus making the buggy fourth level impossible to reach on purpose!

In-game speech and title tune

A special version of the game released for 128K Spectrum consisted a lot of in-game speech and Jonathan Dunn's title music. These enhancements also existed in the Amstrad CPC version but were nowhere to be found neither in C64 version nor in the DOS version.

NES version

NES version developed by Data East bears little resemblance to the original coin-up. It contained additional "block action" move and comic-style cutscenes.

Game Boy version

The Game Boy version in terms of looks and design was very similar to ZX Spectrum and was probably ported directly from this system as both machines use the same Z80 processor. However there were some improvements such as unlimited ammo and the ability to jump. Unfortunately the player had only a single life what made it next to impossible to complete the game.

Ariston commercial

Interestingly enough, the game's title theme (Game Boy version) was used in a British commercial for Ariston home appliances in the early 90's.

Awards

• Computer and Video Games
  • Issue 06/1989 - Runner-up Golden Joystick Award 1989 for Best 8-Bit Soundtrack (reader's vote)

Information also contributed by mailmanppa