Battletank (1990-)

• Developer: Imagineering

• Publisher: Absolute Entertainment

• Genre: Tank Simulation

• Designer: Garry Kitchen, Alex Demeo, Rob Harris, Dan Kitchen

• Composer: Mark Van Hecke

Battletank for the NES was developed by Absolute Entertainment and released in 1990. It was published by Absolute Entertainment as well, bringing a tank combat experience to the NES audience. The game was relatively unique for its time on the platform, offering a 3D first-person perspective that aimed to immerse players in mechanized warfare. Battletank did not receive ports to other systems, making it a somewhat exclusive title for the NES.

The game’s design appears inspired by earlier tank and vehicle simulation games, focusing on strategic combat and navigation through enemy territory. Players take control of a heavily armed tank, tasked with completing various missions such as destroying enemy bunkers and surviving ambushes. The gameplay emphasizes precision targeting and movement, requiring players to manage both offense and defense as they traverse complex environments. The 3D-style graphics, though primitive by modern standards, were a notable feature, attempting to create a sense of depth and realism on the limited NES hardware.

Battletank’s gameplay includes driving the tank through scrolling landscapes while engaging enemy vehicles and structures. The controls allow players to adjust speed, aim the turret, and fire different weapons. The soundtrack is sparse but functional, delivering sound effects that match the tank’s movements and firing actions rather than a full musical score. The audio cues contribute to the tension and atmosphere of combat, supporting the game’s simulation style rather than distracting from it.

There were no prequels or sequels to Battletank on the NES or other platforms, making it a standalone title. It was promoted as a more realistic, tactical tank game in contrast to more arcade-style action games of the time. The reception was mixed, with appreciation for its ambition in graphics and gameplay but some criticism directed at its challenging controls and repetitive mission design. Despite these issues, Battletank holds a place as an interesting experiment in NES vehicle simulation games.

Images from MobyGames