Sometimes, it’s nice to release a game that is recovered! Super Combat 3 is a new Amiga release that are not new at all, but recovered. That is exactly the case with this game, a two-player combat game originally created back in 1995.
Today it is available through the itch.io website and only recently made available to the public.
Super Combat 3! A local multiplayer game that was Lost!
The game was written in assembler on a real Amiga system, but like many personal projects from that era, it was never officially released. Over time, the original disks were lost, leaving the game effectively forgotten. Thanks to modern emulation and preserved disk images, the game has now been recovered and shared by its original creator.
Super Combat 3 is a local multiplayer (only!) action game focused on head-to-head gameplay. Here you have Two characters that plays battle against each other across arenas filled with objectives, weapons, and strategic elements.
Unlike simple duel-style games, this title adds depth through gameplay mechanics such as rescuing hostages, destroying enemy bases, and collecting power-ups that influence the outcome of each match. But the only downside is that there is no single player mode. That’s why this game fits really well in our Amiga Party Games guide article.
Super Combat 3 is fun
Players in Super Combat 3 can access a variety of weapons and special abilities, including guided missiles, holograms, and time bombs. One standout feature is the ability to control tanks after collecting fuel, temporarily making the player more powerful. This reminds me a bit about Cannon Fodder, though here you control the character with Joystick only and not mouse at all.
However, when u use a tank though, you are still vulnerable to certain attacks. These layered mechanics show clear ambition and creativity, especially considering the game was developed independently in the mid-90s. Early GTA ideas?…
Recovering is important!
The release of Super Combat 3 highlights an important part of Amiga history. Many games were created by hobbyists but never widely distributed, even through PD choices. This game is however got so much details in it, that Super Combat 3 would sell even as a full commercial game title.
Today, thanks to preservation efforts and platforms like itch.io, these lost titles are finally getting the attention they deserve. The source was lost? Sorry to hear that…, but at least the person behind this game found the binary! Which is better than nothing, and because of the reliable service that itch.io provides.
Controls of Super Combat 3
Itch.io site also explains the controls of the game!
Push the joystick in the desired direction and press fire to fire weapon A.
Press fire on its own with joystick centred to fire weapon B.
When a player collects the fuel can, their fuel gauge fills up and you can now use the tank if one is available. Simply run into it. You are now invincible until fuel runs out. Your opponent however can still spoil your fun by shooting you with rockets, or grenades. Any explosion will reduce your fuel levels.
Control the tank by
Joystick forward to move forward.
Joystick back to reverse.
Joystick left/right to rotate left or right.
Fire to fire.
Special controls
Hologram
Picking up the H weapon gives the player a hologram to use.
To use it press fire to activate then continue to move in the same direction. The hologram of yourself will run in the opposite direction until you change direction, then he will mirror your movements. Pressing fire will cause him to explode.
Joystick missile
When firing the joystick missile you can guide it with the joystick left or right. Note you are particularly vulnerable at this point.
Time bomb
When collecting the time bomb the timer starts going down. You have 15 seconds to place the bomb before it explodes. It can kill you also, so be careful.
Hostages
On certain levels you will find hostages. Collect them and guide them back to your base. Once there they cant be moved, however you can steal a hostage being taken by your opponent by killing him first. A 2 point bonus is awarded for each hostage rescued at the end of the level.
Destroy H.Q
Some levels have bases to be destroyed. You can only do this by placing a time bomb in the building. This awards a 5 point bonus. Once destroyed it cant be destroyed again.
Super Combat 3 deserves to be played by people or friends wanting to have fun!
Download this game and give it a try. A social combat game that deserves to be played at various meetings, parties or just at your own home together with friends or family.
