Section-Z

Section-Z

Overview & History

Released by Capcom for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1987, Section-Z is a sci-fi action-shooter that pioneered multidirectional combat well before the genre settled into strict side-scrolling conventions. The narrative drops players into the boots of Captain Commando—later repurposed as Capcom's company mascot—who must infiltrate the sprawling, biomechanical dreadnought known as Section-Z. The ultimate mission is to navigate the labyrinthine alien corridors, rescue trapped operatives, and ultimately dismantle the L-Brain, the malevolent supercomputer orchestrating a galactic invasion against Earth.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard linear shooters, Section-Z plays out in a maze-like array of interconnected sectors labeled with letters of the alphabet. Players utilize a unique dual-directional firing mechanic, allowing the protagonist to blast enemies directly ahead or flip his orientation to shoot targets trailing behind him. Progressing through the stages requires collecting orange energy capsules dropped by defeated foes; these act as currency that can be spent at heavily guarded supply stations to upgrade weaponry—ranging from standard lasers to room-clearing fireballs—and boost defensive capabilities. The stage design forces deliberate exploration rather than mindless rushing, as blind paths and dead ends frequently require backtracking to find hidden terminal codes necessary to breach the final boss chamber.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move and Aim
• Action Keys: Attack / Flip Direction
• Enter: Start / Pause