For those who grew up with the Commodore 64, Raid on Bungeling Bay likely holds a special place in your heart. Created by Will Wright in 1984, this classic game was a staple for many, offering a blend of action and strategy that captured the imagination. Nearly 40 years later, the game has been brought back to life with a modern remake that pays homage to the original while introducing new features and updates.
This remake is available on Windows, JAR (Mac & Linux), Android, and directly in your browser via itch.io. Additionally, there’s a 3D version available on the platform, offering a fresh take on the beloved game.
The remake retains the charm of the original but enhances it with updated visuals, refined controls, and modern conveniences. Here’s a closer look at what’s included:
- Multiple Maps: Play the original Commodore 64 map, the NES version map, or dive into a newly designed modern map featuring dynamic water effects and realistic shading.
- Overhauled Controls: The helicopter controls are now consistent across all platforms, whether you’re playing on desktop, mobile, or in a browser. On desktops, use a mouse, and on Android devices, simply tap or drag to navigate.
- Smart Targeting: Bombs and cannon fire are now automated, leaving players to focus on piloting their helicopter.
- Customizable HUD: The heads-up display (HUD) provides detailed game information and can be toggled on or off, depending on your preference.
- Voice Alerts: Receive computer-assisted voice alerts during gameplay, which can also be toggled on or off.
- Pause and Resume: A simple but much-needed feature for modern gaming.
- Persistent Settings and High Scores: Save your settings across sessions, and high scores are uploaded to a central server for competitive fun.
The modern map is a standout addition, featuring realistic water shaders that add a layer of immersion. While the original C64 and NES maps are available for nostalgia, the new map takes advantage of contemporary hardware, offering a polished and vibrant visual experience.
Whether you’re playing on a high-end Android device or an older system, the game adjusts to your hardware. If the modern map runs slowly on your device, switching to one of the classic maps will ensure smooth gameplay.
Despite the updates, the core gameplay remains true to the original. Destroy all six factories before the enemy completes their warship. Strategic bombing of the ship while it’s under construction is still a viable tactic, and visual aids like bounding boxes help ensure your bombs hit their target.
For those struggling, a built-in demo mode allows you to watch the AI play, offering tips and strategies.
The Raid on Bungeling Bay Remake can be downloaded for Windows, JAR (Mac & Linux), and Android from itch.io, or you can play it directly in your browser.
This remake isn’t just a trip down memory lane—it’s a rare instance of a classic game can be reimagined and improved upon without changing the core gameplay to appeal to both nostalgic players and a new generation.
