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Crack Down

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At the beginning of the 21st century, a mad scientist by the name of Mr. K has created an army of artificial soldiers. He conquered the industrial city of Atlantis, and is now preparing to take over the world. The United Nations decided to retaliate by sending two of their top class Special Force...

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Developer
Sega Enterprises

Released on
1989

Size
1–2 Players

Version
Arcade

Requirements
Arcade

Downloads
Shooter

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

Cooperative
Yes

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Description

At the beginning of the 21st century, a mad scientist by the name of Mr. K has created an army of artificial soldiers. He conquered the industrial city of Atlantis, and is now preparing to take over the world. The United Nations decided to retaliate by sending two of their top class Special Forces officers, Ben and Andy, infiltrate the city and destroy the enemy base using a newly developed time bomb–Sigma.

Using a top-down perspective (akin to Gauntlet), the player controls either Ben or Andy, planting bombs and destroying cyborg enemies using guns (the “machine gun” and the “cannon” can be swapped back and forth) and smart bombs (which wipe out all enemies on screen.) The goal of each stage is to plant all of the bombs and escape before their collective timer goes off.

Crack Down

Overview & History

Released by Sega in 1989 for the System 16 arcade board, Crack Down is a top-down, run-and-gun tactical shooter that blends maze navigation with timed demolition. Players step into the combat boots of futuristic agents Ben and Andy (or the cyborg equivalents depending on the region), tasked with infiltrating the heavily fortified stronghold of the madman Mr. X, who threatens the world with his doomsday weapon. Unlike standard shoot-'em-ups that rely on endless wave annihilation, this game introduces a strategic espionage element: operatives must infiltrate complex labyrinthine bases, plant strategically placed time bombs at designated terminal zones, and successfully escape before the entire facility detonates. Ports for home computers like the Amiga, Atari ST, and Sega Mega Drive followed shortly after, cementing its cult classic status.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

The core gameplay revolves around exploring multi-directional grid maps viewed from a top-down perspective, featuring a split-screen co-op mode. Players must constantly manage their radar, which maps out enemy patrols, dead ends, and crucial bomb placement sites. Combat versatility defines the character move set: agents are equipped with a default assault rifle, but can scavenge powerful specialized weaponry—including flamethrowers, lasers, and grenades—hidden within supply crates. Mobility is key; players can roll to evade incoming enemy fire, navigate narrow walkways, and activate automated security gates to trap pursuers. The intense pacing is dictated by a strict countdown timer. Defeating all hostile guards or simply rushing to the exit adds a layer of risk-and-reward decision making, forcing split-second tactical routes.