Difference between revisions of "Mercs"

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{{stub}}
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{{OtherPage|desc=the [[Sega Saturn]] version|page=Capcom Generation: Dai 4 Shuu Kokou no Eiyuu}}
 
{{Bob
 
{{Bob
 
| bobscreen=Mercs title.png
 
| bobscreen=Mercs title.png
−
| publisher=[[Sega]]
+
| bobscreen2=Mercs MD JP TitleScreen.png
−
| developer=[[Capcom]] {{MD}} [[Sega]] ??? [[Tiertex]]
+
| bobscreen3=Mercs SMS Title.png
−
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Virtual Console]]
+
| tab1={{MD}} NTSC-U/PAL
−
| romsize={{SMS}} 512kB, {{MD}} 1MB
+
| tab2={{MD}} NTSC-J
−
| sounddriver=[[SMPS]] [[Z80]]
+
| tab3=Master System
 +
| publisher={{company|[[Sega]]|system=MD,SMS}} {{company|[[Capcom]]|system=VC,SWITCHONLINE}}
 +
| developer={{company|[[Sega CS1]]<ref>Credits known CS1 (1991) manager Makoto Oshitani</ref>|system=MD}}
 +
{{company|[[Tiertex]]|system=SMS}}
 +
{{company|[[M2]]|system=VC,SWITCHONLINE}}
 +
| distributor={{company|[[Halifax]]|system=SMS|region=IT}}
 +
{{company|[[Ecofilmes]]|region=PT|system=MD}}
 +
{{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR|system=MD,SMS}}
 +
| licensor={{company|[[Capcom]]|system=MD,SMS}}
 +
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Virtual Console]], [[Nintendo Switch Online]]
 +
| sounddriver=[[SMPS Z80]]
 
| peripherals=
 
| peripherals=
 
| players=1
 
| players=1
−
| genre=Shoot-'em-Up
+
| genre=Shooting{{fileref|Mercs MD JP Box.jpg}}{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20200720095133/https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html}}{{fileref|Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg}}
−
| releases={{releases
+
| originaldevelopers=[[Capcom]]
−
| md_date_eu=1991
+
| originalsystem=Capcom CPS-1
−
| md_rrp_uk=34.95
+
| releases={{releasesMD
−
| md_date_us=1991
+
| md_date_jp=1991-09-27{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20200720095133/https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html}}
−
| md_date_jp=1991-09-27
 
−
| md_rrp_jp=7,000
 
 
| md_code_jp=G-4051
 
| md_code_jp=G-4051
−
| sms_date_eu=1991
+
| md_rrp_jp=7,000e{{magref|bemega|1991-09|7}}
 +
| md_date_us=1991-10
 +
| md_rrp_us=59.95{{magref|vgce|35|75}}
 +
| md_code_us=1119
 +
| md_date_us_sc=199x
 +
| md_rrp_us_sc=sub
 +
| md_rating_us_sc=
 +
| md_date_eu=1991-12
 +
| md_code_eu=1119
 +
| md_date_eu_sc=199x
 +
| md_rrp_eu_sc=sub
 +
| md_rating_eu_sc=
 +
| md_date_uk=1991-12-12{{magref|segapro|3|7}}{{magref|megatech|18|92}}{{magref|ctw|366|27}}
 +
| md_code_uk=1119
 +
| md_rrp_uk=34.95{{magref|cvg|121|18}}<!--39.99{{magref|gz|2|35}} 44.99{{magref|cvg|151|97}}-->
 +
| md_date_au=199x
 +
| md_date_br=1992-02{{magref|supergame|7|30}}
 +
| md_date_ca=199x
 +
| md_date_pt=199x
 +
}}
 +
{{releasesSMS
 +
| sms_date_eu=1992-01{{magref|segapower|27|12}}
 
| sms_code_eu=9007
 
| sms_code_eu=9007
−
| sms_rrp_uk=32.99
+
| sms_date_uk=1992-01{{magref|segapower|27|12}}<!--1991-11{{magref|ctw|363|27}}-->
 +
| sms_code_uk=9007
 +
| sms_rrp_uk=24.99{{magref|segapower|27|12}}<!--29.99{{magref|segapower|28|45}}-->
 
| sms_date_br=199x
 
| sms_date_br=199x
−
| vc_date_jp=2008-11-04
+
| sms_date_au=199x
−
| vc_rrp_jp=600
+
| sms_date_mx=199x
−
| vc_date_eu=2009-02-20
+
}}
−
| vc_rrp_eu=800
+
{{releasesWii
−
| vc_date_us=2009-02-09
+
| vc_date_jp=2008-11-04{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20180306233554/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/software/08.html}}
−
| vc_rrp_us=800
+
| vc_rrp_jp=600{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20090203130933/http://vc.sega.jp:80/vc_senjo2}}
 +
| vc_rating_jp=b
 +
| vc_date_eu=2009-02-20{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170609032445/http://www.nintendolife.com/games/megadrive/wolf_of_the_battlefield_mercs}}{{ref|https://archive.is/kLPHJ|https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Wolf-of-the-Battlefield-MERCS-280141.html}}
 +
| vc_rrp_eu=800{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170609032445/http://www.nintendolife.com/games/megadrive/wolf_of_the_battlefield_mercs}}
 +
| vc_rating_eu=12
 +
| vc_date_us=2009-02-09{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20101122225004/http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/xEzg9EmKxrvklt3OVu_Wit0IrKxzncQc}}
 +
| vc_rrp_us=800{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20101122225004/http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/xEzg9EmKxrvklt3OVu_Wit0IrKxzncQc}}
 +
| vc_rating_us=e10
 +
| vc_date_au=2009-02
 +
| vc_rrp_au=800{{ref|1=http://web.archive.org/web/20120403024858/http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19788&pageID=4}}
 +
| vc_rating_au=pg
 +
}}
 +
{{releasesSwitch
 +
| switchonline_date_jp=2024-11-27{{ref|https://archive.is/fG8gN|https://www.nintendo.com/jp/topics/article/85f31051-656e-4a32-b8b9-cae57e818176}}{{ref|1=https://web.archive.org/web/20241127012914/https://preservetube.com/watch?v=eIIhsiej60Y}}
 +
| switchonline_rrp_jp=sub
 +
| switchonline_code_jp=M-2609
 +
| switchonline_date_us=2024-11-26{{ref|https://archive.ph/uqBTK|2=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecII-1bkikw}}
 +
| switchonline_rrp_us=sub
 +
| switchonline_code_us=M-2609
 +
| switchonline_date_eu=2024-11-27{{ref|https://archive.ph/Oz1ce|https://x.com/NintendoEurope/status/1861696473630445879}}
 +
| switchonline_rrp_eu=sub
 +
| switchonline_code_eu=M-2609
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| switchonline_date_uk=2024-11-27{{ref|https://archive.ph/kL2J6|https://x.com/NintendoUK/status/1861696474444128455}}
 +
| switchonline_rrp_uk=sub
 +
| switchonline_code_uk=M-2609
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| switchonline_date_au=2024-11-27{{ref|https://archive.ph/2rlpB|https://x.com/NintendoAUNZ/status/1861636070468702329}}
 +
| switchonline_rrp_au=sub
 +
| switchonline_code_au=M-2609
 
}}
 
}}
−
| pegi=12
+
| otherformats={{NonSega|Arcade|Amiga|CPC|ST|C64|Spectrum}}
−
| cero=b
 
−
| esrb=e10
 
−
| oflc=pg
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
'''''Mercs''''', called '''''Senjou no Ookami II''''' (戦場の狼II) in Japan, is a top-down arcade shoot-'em-up developed by [[Capcom]], which was ported to a variety of home consoles and computers including the [[Sega Mega Drive]] and [[Sega Master System]]. It is a sequel to the arcade game ''Commando'' (''Senjou no Ookami'' in Japan) and was followed by ''Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3'' in 2008.
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''', called '''''Senjou no Ookami II''''' (戦場の狼II) in Japan, is a top-down arcade shoot-'em-up developed by [[Capcom]], which was ported to a variety of home consoles and computers including the [[Sega Mega Drive]] and [[Sega Master System]]. It is a sequel to the arcade game ''Commando'' (''Senjou no Ookami'' in Japan) and was followed by ''Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3'' in 2008.
 +
 
 +
The Mega Drive version of ''Mercs'' was banned from sale in Germany{{fileref|MD UK Box Back SonicEASDH Alt.jpg}}.
 +
 
 +
==Story==
 +
The unnamed former President of the United States has been kidnapped by revolutionaries from the fictional country of Zutura. For diplomatic reasons, instead of sending the military, the United States government decides to send an elite group of mercenaries to stop the rebels and rescue the President.
  
−
The Mega Drive version of the game was released as part of the [[Wii]]'s [[Virtual Console]] service, with the official title of '''''Wolf of the Battlefield: MERCS''''' to properly tie in with ''Commando 3''.
+
In an additional scenario presented in the game's Original Mode, the White House calls upon the Mercs again to prevent the fictional country of Quira from launching its intercontinental ballistic missiles.
  
 
==Gameplay==
 
==Gameplay==
−
{{A}} and {{C}} shoot. {{B}} fires a bomb (which is available in a limited supply).
+
===Mega Drive version===
 +
''Mercs'' is a top-down run-and-gun game. The player's Merc can move in eight directions around the screen with the D-Pad. The screen does not autoscroll but follows the Merc as he moves; however, the screen does not scroll back down, limiting the player's ability to backtrack. The Merc must fight through each stage and face a boss at the end. The Merc shoots his primary weapon with {{A}} or {{C}}. He can also use Mega Crash Bombs with {{B}}, which attack everything on the screen at once but are limited in supply.
 +
 
 +
The player can occasionally enter vehicles, including trucks, boats, and turrets, by moving onto them after defeating their occupants. Vehicles have their own health bars, and the player is ejected from them after they run out of health.
 +
 
 +
The game has two modes: Arcade Mode, which is faithful to the arcade version, and Original Mode, an extended mode with new levels that adds new mechanics.
 +
 
 +
====Arcade Mode====
 +
In the Arcade Mode, the player controls a lone Merc through seven stages to rescue the former President. The Merc is initially equipped with an assault rifle but can switch weapons by finding weapon pick-ups. He also starts with three Mega Crash Bombs but can find more in the stages. The Merc has a life gauge that goes down as he takes damage from enemies and hazards but can find healing items throughout the stages. When the Merc runs out of life, the game ends, but it can be continued as long as the player has credits remaining. Missions are also timed, and the Merc loses a life if time runs out.
 +
 
 +
=====Items=====
 +
Items are found in crates.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Crate
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Destroy to release an item.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Food
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=128 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 3 units of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Medal
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Restores part of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=First Aid Box
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 16 units of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Life-Up
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=224 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Permanently adds 4 units to capacity of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Power
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Upgrades the weapon power level.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mega Crash Bomb
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player another Mega Crash Bomb to use.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Assault Rifle
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the assault rifle, which shoots bullets in the direction that the Merc is facing. This is the starting weapon.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Flamethrower
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does continuous damage and can hit multiple targets.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Shotgun
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the shotgun, which shoots multiple shots in a conical shape.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Grenade Launcher
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the grenade launcher, which fires high-powered grenades a short distance.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
=====Missions=====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 1
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 2
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 3
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 4
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 5
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 6
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 7
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Final Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Original Mode====
 +
{{ScreenThumb2 | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | Mercs, Original, Store.png | width=200 | Merc selection and friendly hideout}}
 +
The Original Mode is significantly longer than the Arcade Mode and adds new mechanics. The player starts the game as Rifle, who is armed with an assault rifle and one Mega Crash Bomb. Starting with the second stage, the player starts finding friendly hideouts and recruiting new Mercs. Friendly hideouts act as item shops where players can exchange medals, which are found throughout the stages, for items such as health kits, Mega Crash Bombs, and upgrades for their Mercs (similar to the shops in ''[[Forgotten Worlds (Mega Drive)|Forgotten Worlds]]''). Friendly hideouts are found in all subsequent stages and usually look like tents or storage sheds.
 +
 
 +
Each Merc has his own unique weapon (in contrast to the Arcade Mode, where the main Merc can equip multiple weapons), his own life gauge, and his own statistics such as weapon power and movement speed. Mercs can be switched by pausing the game with {{Start}}. Whenever the player finds a healing or an upgrade item, it is given to the active Merc, and whenever an item is purchased, the player can choose which Merc receives the item, letting the player choose which Mercs to prioritize.
 +
 
 +
When a Merc runs out of life, he dies but can be revived by purchasing an Elixir item from the hideout. If all of the Mercs die, the game ends. There are no continues in this mode, with the Mercs themselves acting as a sort of life system.
  
−
==Production Credits==
+
=====Characters=====
−
===Mega Drive Version===
+
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
−
'''Planner:''' Kyamura<br>
+
{{InfoRow
−
'''Designers:''' L C, Rew, Majikko, Majimaji<br>
+
| title=Rifle
−
'''Programmers:''' Mt Book, Proto 2, Markun<br>
+
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=16}}
−
'''Sound Arranger:''' [[Yoshiaki Kashima|Milpo]]<br>
+
| desc=Rifle is the starting Merc. He is armed with an assault rifle, a versatile weapon that fires bullets forwards. Power upgrades widen the area of his shots. Rifle has the greatest speed potential of all the Mercs, allowing him to run through enemy lines and evade hostile fire. Along with Laser, he has the longest potential life gauge.
−
'''Producer:''' Ossie<br>
+
}}
−
'''Special Thanks:''' Marusan, Mu, Taka Oh, Ax, Sunset, Otaku, Tsuch, Tomo<br>
+
{{InfoRow
−
'''Presented by:''' [[Sega]]<br>
+
| title=Burner
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=56}}
 +
| desc=Burner is armed with a flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does area damage and can easily incinerate mobs of enemies. However, his life gauge and movement speed potential are less than those of Rifle. He is recruited in Stage 2.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Launcher
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=96}}
 +
| desc=Launcher has a grenade launcher, which shoots powerful grenades a short distance in front of him. He has a high potential life gauge but the lowest movement speed cap of all the Mercs. He can do heavy damage to stationary targets but has difficulty avoiding enemy fire. He is recruited in Stage 3.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Laser
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=136}}
 +
| desc=Laser is equipped with a gun that shoots long lasers long distances. His weapon is very strong but fires slowly, making him ideal for large foes such as bosses but difficult to use against smaller targets. He has the second best movement speed potential, after Rifle, allowing him to deftly dodge enemy fire. He is recruited in Stage 4.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Homing
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=176}}
 +
| desc=Homing shoots homing missiles that do area damage. He is recruited in Stage 8.
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
−
==Physical Scans==
+
=====Items=====
−
===Mega Drive Version===
+
Items are found in crates or sometimes other destructible objects such as trees. Items can also be bought at friendly hideouts with medals; prices vary depending on the hideout.
−
{{ratings
+
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
−
| icon=MD
+
{{InfoRow
−
| ace=40
+
| title=Crate
−
| ace_source={{num|52}}
+
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
−
| consolesplus=93
+
| desc=Destroy to release an item.
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|3}}
+
}}
−
| cvg=92
+
{{InfoRow
−
| cvg_source={{num|121}}
+
| title=Food
−
| cvgit=80
+
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=128 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
−
| gi=88
+
| desc=Restores part of the life gauge: the Hamburger restores 2 units, the Spinach restores 3 units, the Roast Chicken restores 4 units, and the Leg of Lamb restores 6 units.
−
| gamesx=90
+
}}
−
| gamesx_source={{num|28}}
+
{{InfoRow
−
| hobbyconsolas=90
+
| title=First Aid Box
−
| joypad=90
+
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=0}}
−
| megatech=90
+
| desc=Restores 16 units of the life gauge.
−
| megatech_source={{num|1}}
+
}}
−
| playerone=80
+
{{InfoRow
−
| pp=70
+
| title=Special First Aid Box
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Completely restores the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Life-Up
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=224 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Permanently adds 4 units to capacity of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Power
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Upgrades the weapon power level.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mega Crash Bomb
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player another Mega Crash Bomb to use.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Medal
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=96 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player medals that can be traded for items at friendly hideouts. The single medal gives 1 medal, the stacked medals gives 3 medals, and the big medal gives 5 medals.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Elixir
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Revives a fallen Merc.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Top Secret Information
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=224 | crop_y=32}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player a gameplay hint.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Boots
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Increases the Merc's movement speed.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Bulletproof Vest
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Reduces damage taken by the Merc.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Gas Mask
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Renders the Merc immune to poison gas.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Dynamite
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=64}}
 +
| desc=Explodes and harms the Merc if he is too close.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
=====Stages=====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Coast
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 1 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Forest
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 2 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Cliff
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Lakes and Bogs
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Desert
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 5 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Streets
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 6.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 6 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Port
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 7.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 7 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Enemy Hideout
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 8.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 8 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
===Master System version===
 +
The Master System version is a simple port of the arcade game and has no equivalent to the Mega Drive version's Original Mode. It has the same weapons and vehicles. The player's Merc can move in eight directions with the D-Pad. He shoots his main weapon with {{1}} and uses a Megabomb with {{2}}. The player receives a stock of three Megabombs at the start of every mission.
 +
 +
The Merc has a life gauge, and the game ends if he runs out of life. There is also a mission timer that starts at 300 seconds for each stage, and the Merc loses a life if the timer reaches zero.
 +
 +
There is a harder difficulty level that can be played by starting the game with {{down}}+{{1}} at the title screen.
 +
 +
====Items====
 +
Items are found in crates.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Crate
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Destroy to release an item.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=M
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player another Megabomb to use.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Bullet
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the machine gun, which shoots bullets in the direction that the Merc is facing. This is the starting weapon.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Flame
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does continuous damage and can hit multiple targets.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Green Circle
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the shotgun, which shoots multiple shots in a conical shape.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Rocket
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=80 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Switches the Merc's weapon to the rocket launcher, which fires high-damage rockets a short distance.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=POW
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Upgrades the weapon power level.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Food
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=112 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores part of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=First Aid Box
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Fully restores the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Life-Up
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=144 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Permanently increases the length of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Medal
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=176 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Awards 1,000 bonus points.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=256|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 1
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 1 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage1LandingMission.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 2
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 2 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage2EnemyTankLine.png
 +
| map2=Mercs-SMS-Stage2Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 3
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage3AttackUnitScorpion.png
 +
| map2=Mercs-SMS-Stage3Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 4
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage4MountainPass.png
 +
| map2=Mercs-SMS-Stage4Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 5
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 5 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage5EnemySupplyLine.png
 +
| map2=Mercs-SMS-Stage5Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 6
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Stage 6.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs SMS, Stage 6 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage6.png
 +
| map2=Mercs-SMS-Stage6Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Mission 7
 +
| screenshot=Mercs SMS, Final Boss.png
 +
| map=Mercs-SMS-Stage7FlightOfTheHercules.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
==History==
 +
===Legacy===
 +
The original arcade game was ported to the [[Sega Saturn]] in Japan in 1998 as part of ''[[Capcom Generation: Dai 4 Shuu Kokou no Eiyuu]]''.
 +
 +
The Mega Drive version of the game was released as part of the [[Wii]]'s [[Virtual Console]] service, with the official title of '''''Wolf of the Battlefield: MERCS''''' to properly tie in with ''Commando 3''. The [[Nintendo Switch Online]] re-release inside the ''[[Sega Mega Drive - Nintendo Switch Online]]'' app also calls it with the same name from the Wii Virtual Console re-release.
 +
 +
==Versions==
 +
The original arcade game uses a vertical aspect ratio, which was adapted to the Mega Drive port by adding a status area to the side of the screen. The arcade version supports three-player simultaneous play. The Mega Drive version is only single-player but adds the Original Mode, which expands the game with new levels and mechanics.
 +
 +
===Localised names===
 +
{{aka
 +
|en_name=Mercs
 +
|us_name=Mercs
 +
|jp_name=戦場の狼II
 +
|jp_rom=Senjou no Ookami II
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Production credits==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Production credits}}
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
*'''Planner:''' [[Atsuhiko Nakamura|Kyamura]]
 +
*'''Designers:''' [[Kazuyoshi Tsugawa|L C]], [[Rew]], [[Majikko]], [[Majimaji]]
 +
*'''Programmers:''' [[Mt. Book|Mt Book]], [[Yuichiro Mine|Proto 2]], [[Markun]]
 +
*'''Sound Arranger:''' [[Yoshiaki Kashima|Milpo]]
 +
*'''Producer:''' [[Makoto Oshitani|Ossie]]
 +
*'''Special Thanks:''' [[Marusan]], [[Tomohiro Kondo|Mu]], [[Takao Miyoshi|Taka Oh]], [[Kenichi Ono|Ax]], [[Sunset]], [[Otaku]], [[Tsuch]], [[Tomo]]
 +
*'''Presented by:''' [[Sega]]
 +
| source=In-game credits
 +
| pdf=Mercs MD credits.pdf
 +
| console=MD
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Magazine articles==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Magazine articles}}
 +
 +
==Promotional material==
 +
{{gallery
 +
|{{gitem|Mercs MD JP PrintAdvert.jpg|JP print advert}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|mms|11|50-51
 +
}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd|bemega|1991-09|6-7}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Physical scans==
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
{{ratings|MD}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=JP
 +
| cover=Mercs MD JP Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Mercs MD JP Cart.jpg
 +
| carttop=Mercs MD JP_CartTop.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs MD jp_manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| region=US
 
| region=US
−
| front=Mercs MD US Box.jpg
+
| cover=Mercs MD US Box.jpg
−
| cart=
+
| cart=Mercs MD US Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs MD US Manual.pdf
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| region=EU
 
| region=EU
 
| cover=Mercs MD EU Box.jpg
 
| cover=Mercs MD EU Box.jpg
−
| cart=
+
| cart=Mercs MD EU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs MD EU Manual.jpg
 +
| item1=Mercs MD EU pcb.jpg
 +
| item1name=PCB
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=PT
 +
| cover=Mercs MD PT cover.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=JP
+
| region=AU
−
| front=Mercs MD JP Box.jpg
+
| cover=MERCS Megadrive AU Cover.jpg
−
| cart=
+
| cart=MERCS Megadrive AU Cart.jpg
 +
| carttop=MERCS Megadrive AU Cart Top.jpg
 +
| manual=MERCS Megadrive AU Manual.pdf
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| region=BR
 
| region=BR
−
| front=Mercs md br cover.jpg
+
| cover=Mercs md br cover.jpg
 +
| cart=Mercs MD BR Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs MD BR Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=CA
 +
| cover=Mercs MD CA cover.jpg
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===Master System Version===
+
===Master System version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|SMS}}
−
| icon=SMS
 
−
| gamesx=50
 
−
| gamesx_source={{num|32}}
 
−
| hobbyconsolas=90
 
−
| joypad=74
 
−
| mm=81
 
−
| micromania=67
 
−
| micromania_source={{num|2/46}}
 
−
| playerone=70
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
 
| region=EU
 
| region=EU
−
| front=Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg
+
| cover=Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg
 
| cart=Mercs SMS EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=Mercs SMS EU Cart.jpg
−
}}{{scanbox
+
| manual=Mercs SMS EU Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=IT
 +
| front=Mercs SMS IT cover.jpg
 +
| back=Mercs SMS IT back.jpg
 +
| spinemissing=yes
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU
 +
| cover=Mercs SMS AU cover.jpg
 +
| cart=Mercs SMS AU Cart.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
 
| region=BR
 
| region=BR
−
| front=
+
| cover=Mercs SMS BR Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Mercs SMS BR Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs SMS BR Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=MX
 +
| cover=Mercs SMS MX Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Mercs SMS EU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Mercs SMS EU Manual.pdf
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==External Links==
+
==Technical information==
−
* [http://vc.sega.jp/vc_senjo2/ Sega of Japan Virtual Console page (Japanese)]
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
 +
 
 +
==External links==
 +
* Sega of Japan Virtual Console pages: [http://vc.sega.jp/vc_senjo2/ Mega Drive]
 +
* Nintendo catalogue pages: [https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/xEzg9EmKxrvklt3OVu_Wit0IrKxzncQc US], [https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Wolf-of-the-Battlefield-MERCS-280141.html UK], [http://web.archive.org/web/20120403024858/http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19788&pageID=4 AU]
 +
 
 +
==References==
 +
<references/>
 +
 
 +
{{MercsOmni}}

Latest revision as of 14:35, 27 November 2024

For the Sega Saturn version, see Capcom Generation: Dai 4 Shuu Kokou no Eiyuu.

n/a

  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-U/PAL
  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-J
  • Master System

Mercs title.png

Mercs MD JP TitleScreen.png

Mercs SMS Title.png

Mercs
System(s): Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System, Virtual Console, Nintendo Switch Online
Publisher:
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Master System
Sega
Wii Virtual Console
Nintendo Switch Online
Capcom
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Master System
Halifax (IT)
Sega Mega Drive
Ecofilmes (PT)
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Master System
Tec Toy (BR)
Licensor:
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Master System
Capcom
Original system(s): Capcom CPS-1
Developer(s) of original games: Capcom
Sound driver: SMPS Z80
Genre: Shooting[2][3][4]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega Drive
JP 		¥7,000 (7,210)7,000e[5] G-4051
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$59.9559.95[6] 1119
Sega Mega Drive
US ▼
(Sega Channel) 		SUBsub
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		1119
Sega Mega Drive
EU ▼
(Sega Channel) 		SUBsub
Sega Mega Drive
PT
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£34.9534.95[10] 1119
Sega Mega Drive
AU
Sega Mega Drive
CA
Sega Mega Drive
BR
Sega Master System
EU 		9007
Sega Master System
UK 		£24.9924.99[12] 9007
Sega Master System
AU
Sega Master System
MX
Sega Master System
BR
Wii Virtual Console
JP ▼ 		600pts600[14]
CERO: B
Wii Virtual Console
US ▼ 		800pts800[17]
ESRB: Everyone 10+
Wii Virtual Console
EU ▼ 		800pts800[15]
PEGI: 12+
Wii Virtual Console
AU ▼ 		800pts800[18]
OFLC: Parental Guidance (PG)
Nintendo Switch Online
JP ▼ 		SUBsub M-2609
Nintendo Switch Online
US ▼ 		SUBsub M-2609
Nintendo Switch Online
EU ▼ 		SUBsub M-2609
Nintendo Switch Online
UK ▼ 		SUBsub M-2609
Nintendo Switch Online
AU ▼ 		SUBsub M-2609
Non-Sega versions

Mercs, called Senjou no Ookami II (戦場の狼II) in Japan, is a top-down arcade shoot-'em-up developed by Capcom, which was ported to a variety of home consoles and computers including the Sega Mega Drive and Sega Master System. It is a sequel to the arcade game Commando (Senjou no Ookami in Japan) and was followed by Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3 in 2008.

The Mega Drive version of Mercs was banned from sale in Germany[25].

Story

The unnamed former President of the United States has been kidnapped by revolutionaries from the fictional country of Zutura. For diplomatic reasons, instead of sending the military, the United States government decides to send an elite group of mercenaries to stop the rebels and rescue the President.

In an additional scenario presented in the game's Original Mode, the White House calls upon the Mercs again to prevent the fictional country of Quira from launching its intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Gameplay

Mega Drive version

Mercs is a top-down run-and-gun game. The player's Merc can move in eight directions around the screen with the D-Pad. The screen does not autoscroll but follows the Merc as he moves; however, the screen does not scroll back down, limiting the player's ability to backtrack. The Merc must fight through each stage and face a boss at the end. The Merc shoots his primary weapon with A or C. He can also use Mega Crash Bombs with B, which attack everything on the screen at once but are limited in supply.

The player can occasionally enter vehicles, including trucks, boats, and turrets, by moving onto them after defeating their occupants. Vehicles have their own health bars, and the player is ejected from them after they run out of health.

The game has two modes: Arcade Mode, which is faithful to the arcade version, and Original Mode, an extended mode with new levels that adds new mechanics.

Arcade Mode

In the Arcade Mode, the player controls a lone Merc through seven stages to rescue the former President. The Merc is initially equipped with an assault rifle but can switch weapons by finding weapon pick-ups. He also starts with three Mega Crash Bombs but can find more in the stages. The Merc has a life gauge that goes down as he takes damage from enemies and hazards but can find healing items throughout the stages. When the Merc runs out of life, the game ends, but it can be continued as long as the player has credits remaining. Missions are also timed, and the Merc loses a life if time runs out.

Items

Items are found in crates.

Mercs, Items.png
 Crate
Destroy to release an item.
Mercs, Items.png
 Food
Restores 3 units of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Medal
Restores part of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 First Aid Box
Restores 16 units of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Life-Up
Permanently adds 4 units to capacity of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Power
Upgrades the weapon power level.
Mercs, Items.png
 Mega Crash Bomb
Gives the player another Mega Crash Bomb to use.
Mercs, Items.png
 Assault Rifle
Switches the Merc's weapon to the assault rifle, which shoots bullets in the direction that the Merc is facing. This is the starting weapon.
Mercs, Items.png
 Flamethrower
Switches the Merc's weapon to the flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does continuous damage and can hit multiple targets.
Mercs, Items.png
 Shotgun
Switches the Merc's weapon to the shotgun, which shoots multiple shots in a conical shape.
Mercs, Items.png
 Grenade Launcher
Switches the Merc's weapon to the grenade launcher, which fires high-powered grenades a short distance.
Missions

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1 Boss.png

Mission 1

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2 Boss.png

Mission 2

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3 Boss.png

Mission 3

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4 Boss.png

Mission 4

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5 Boss.png

Mission 5

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6.png

  • Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6 Boss.png

Mission 6

Mercs, Arcade, Final Boss.png

Mission 7

Original Mode

Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png

Mercs, Original, Store.png

Merc selection and friendly hideout

The Original Mode is significantly longer than the Arcade Mode and adds new mechanics. The player starts the game as Rifle, who is armed with an assault rifle and one Mega Crash Bomb. Starting with the second stage, the player starts finding friendly hideouts and recruiting new Mercs. Friendly hideouts act as item shops where players can exchange medals, which are found throughout the stages, for items such as health kits, Mega Crash Bombs, and upgrades for their Mercs (similar to the shops in Forgotten Worlds). Friendly hideouts are found in all subsequent stages and usually look like tents or storage sheds.

Each Merc has his own unique weapon (in contrast to the Arcade Mode, where the main Merc can equip multiple weapons), his own life gauge, and his own statistics such as weapon power and movement speed. Mercs can be switched by pausing the game with  START . Whenever the player finds a healing or an upgrade item, it is given to the active Merc, and whenever an item is purchased, the player can choose which Merc receives the item, letting the player choose which Mercs to prioritize.

When a Merc runs out of life, he dies but can be revived by purchasing an Elixir item from the hideout. If all of the Mercs die, the game ends. There are no continues in this mode, with the Mercs themselves acting as a sort of life system.

Characters
Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png
 Rifle
Rifle is the starting Merc. He is armed with an assault rifle, a versatile weapon that fires bullets forwards. Power upgrades widen the area of his shots. Rifle has the greatest speed potential of all the Mercs, allowing him to run through enemy lines and evade hostile fire. Along with Laser, he has the longest potential life gauge.
Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png
 Burner
Burner is armed with a flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does area damage and can easily incinerate mobs of enemies. However, his life gauge and movement speed potential are less than those of Rifle. He is recruited in Stage 2.
Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png
 Launcher
Launcher has a grenade launcher, which shoots powerful grenades a short distance in front of him. He has a high potential life gauge but the lowest movement speed cap of all the Mercs. He can do heavy damage to stationary targets but has difficulty avoiding enemy fire. He is recruited in Stage 3.
Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png
 Laser
Laser is equipped with a gun that shoots long lasers long distances. His weapon is very strong but fires slowly, making him ideal for large foes such as bosses but difficult to use against smaller targets. He has the second best movement speed potential, after Rifle, allowing him to deftly dodge enemy fire. He is recruited in Stage 4.
Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png
 Homing
Homing shoots homing missiles that do area damage. He is recruited in Stage 8.
Items

Items are found in crates or sometimes other destructible objects such as trees. Items can also be bought at friendly hideouts with medals; prices vary depending on the hideout.

Mercs, Items.png
 Crate
Destroy to release an item.
Mercs, Items.png
 Food
Restores part of the life gauge: the Hamburger restores 2 units, the Spinach restores 3 units, the Roast Chicken restores 4 units, and the Leg of Lamb restores 6 units.
Mercs, Items.png
 First Aid Box
Restores 16 units of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Special First Aid Box
Completely restores the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Life-Up
Permanently adds 4 units to capacity of the life gauge.
Mercs, Items.png
 Power
Upgrades the weapon power level.
Mercs, Items.png
 Mega Crash Bomb
Gives the player another Mega Crash Bomb to use.
Mercs, Items.png
 Medal
Gives the player medals that can be traded for items at friendly hideouts. The single medal gives 1 medal, the stacked medals gives 3 medals, and the big medal gives 5 medals.
Mercs, Items.png
 Elixir
Revives a fallen Merc.
Mercs, Items.png
 Top Secret Information
Gives the player a gameplay hint.
Mercs, Items.png
 Boots
Increases the Merc's movement speed.
Mercs, Items.png
 Bulletproof Vest
Reduces damage taken by the Merc.
Mercs, Items.png
 Gas Mask
Renders the Merc immune to poison gas.
Mercs, Items.png
 Dynamite
Explodes and harms the Merc if he is too close.
Stages

Mercs, Original, Stage 1.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 1 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 1.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 1 Boss.png

Coast

Mercs, Original, Stage 2.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 2 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 2.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 2 Boss.png

Forest

Mercs, Original, Stage 3.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 3 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 3.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 3 Boss.png

Cliff

Mercs, Original, Stage 4.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 4 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 4.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 4 Boss.png

Lakes and Bogs

Mercs, Original, Stage 5.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 5 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 5.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 5 Boss.png

Desert

Mercs, Original, Stage 6.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 6 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 6.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 6 Boss.png

Streets

Mercs, Original, Stage 7.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 7 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 7.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 7 Boss.png

Port

Mercs, Original, Stage 8.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 8 Boss.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 8.png

  • Mercs, Original, Stage 8 Boss.png

Enemy Hideout

Master System version

The Master System version is a simple port of the arcade game and has no equivalent to the Mega Drive version's Original Mode. It has the same weapons and vehicles. The player's Merc can move in eight directions with the D-Pad. He shoots his main weapon with 1 and uses a Megabomb with 2. The player receives a stock of three Megabombs at the start of every mission.

The Merc has a life gauge, and the game ends if he runs out of life. There is also a mission timer that starts at 300 seconds for each stage, and the Merc loses a life if the timer reaches zero.

There is a harder difficulty level that can be played by starting the game with Down+1 at the title screen.

Items

Items are found in crates.

Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Crate
Destroy to release an item.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 M
Gives the player another Megabomb to use.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Bullet
Switches the Merc's weapon to the machine gun, which shoots bullets in the direction that the Merc is facing. This is the starting weapon.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Flame
Switches the Merc's weapon to the flamethrower, which sprays a long flame that does continuous damage and can hit multiple targets.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Green Circle
Switches the Merc's weapon to the shotgun, which shoots multiple shots in a conical shape.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Rocket
Switches the Merc's weapon to the rocket launcher, which fires high-damage rockets a short distance.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 POW
Upgrades the weapon power level.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Food
Restores part of the life gauge.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 First Aid Box
Fully restores the life gauge.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Life-Up
Permanently increases the length of the life gauge.
Mercs SMS, Items.png
 Medal
Awards 1,000 bonus points.

Stages

Mercs SMS, Stage 1.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 1 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 1.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 1 Boss.png

Mission 1
Map: 1️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Stage 2.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 2 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 2.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 2 Boss.png

Mission 2
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Stage 3.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 3.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

Mission 3
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Stage 4.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 4.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

Mission 4
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Stage 5.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 5 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 5.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 5 Boss.png

Mission 5
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Stage 6.png

Mercs SMS, Stage 6 Boss.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 6.png

  • Mercs SMS, Stage 6 Boss.png

Mission 6
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

Mercs SMS, Final Boss.png

Mission 7
Map: 1️⃣ 

History

Legacy

The original arcade game was ported to the Sega Saturn in Japan in 1998 as part of Capcom Generation: Dai 4 Shuu Kokou no Eiyuu.

The Mega Drive version of the game was released as part of the Wii's Virtual Console service, with the official title of Wolf of the Battlefield: MERCS to properly tie in with Commando 3. The Nintendo Switch Online re-release inside the Sega Mega Drive - Nintendo Switch Online app also calls it with the same name from the Wii Virtual Console re-release.

Versions

The original arcade game uses a vertical aspect ratio, which was adapted to the Mega Drive port by adding a status area to the side of the screen. The arcade version supports three-player simultaneous play. The Mega Drive version is only single-player but adds the Original Mode, which expands the game with new levels and mechanics.

Localised names

Also known as
Language Localised Name English Translation
English Mercs Mercs
English (US) Mercs Mercs
Japanese 戦場の狼II Senjou no Ookami II

Production credits

Main article: Mercs/Production credits.

Mega Drive version

Source:
In-game credits
Mercs MD credits.pdf
[26]


Magazine articles

Main article: Mercs/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Mercs MD JP PrintAdvert.jpg
JP print advert
Mercs MD JP PrintAdvert.jpg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Mean Machines Sega (UK) #11: "September 1993" (1993-07-30)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Beep! MegaDrive (JP) #1991-09: "September 1991" (1991-08-08)
Logo-pdf.svg

Physical scans

Mega Drive version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
40
[27]
ACE (UK)
25
[28]
Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
73
[29]
Consoles + (FR)
93
[30]
Console XS (UK) PAL
75
[31]
Cool Gamer (RU)
70
[32]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
92
[10]
Computer + Video Giochi (IT)
90
[33]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
88
[34]
Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
60
[35]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
88
[36]
Games-X (UK)
90
[37]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
85
[38]
Game Zone (UK) PAL
78
[39]
Hippon Super (JP) NTSC-J
40
[40]
Hobby Consolas (ES)
90
[41]
Joypad (FR) NTSC-J
90
[42]
Joystick (FR) NTSC-J
90
[43]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
13
[44]
Mega Drive Fan (JP) NTSC-J
72
[45]
Mega (UK) PAL
72
[46]
Mega Force (FR) PAL
80
[47]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
90
[48]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
90
[8]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
67
[49]
Mean Machines (UK)
88
[50]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
88
[51]
Player One (FR)
80
[52]
Play Time (DE)
57
[53]
Power Play (DE)
70
[54]
Score (CZ)
45
[55]
Sega Power (UK) NTSC-J
45
[56]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
74
[57]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
75
[58]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
89
[59]
Sega Mega Drive Review (RU)
80
[60]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
80
[61]
Top Secret (PL)
100
[62]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
68
[63]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US) NTSC-U
70
[6]
Video Games (DE)
70
[64]
Sega Mega Drive
 74
Based on
41 reviews

Mercs

Mega Drive, JP
Mercs MD JP Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs MD JP CartTop.jpg
Mercs MD JP Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs MD jp manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, US
Mercs MD US Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs MD US Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs MD US Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, EU
Mercs MD EU Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mercs MD EU pcb.jpg
PCB
Mega Drive, PT
Mercs MD PT cover.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, AU
MERCS Megadrive AU Cover.jpg
Cover
MERCS Megadrive AU Cart Top.jpg
MERCS Megadrive AU Cart.jpg
Cart
MERCS Megadrive AU Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, BR
Mercs md br cover.jpg
Cover
Mercs MD BR Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs MD BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, CA
Mercs MD CA cover.jpg
Cover

Master System version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Console XS (UK) PAL
73
[65]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK) PAL
81
[66]
Games-X (UK) PAL
90
[67]
Hobby Consolas (ES) PAL
90
[41]
Joypad (FR)
74
[68]
Joystick (FR) PAL
85
[69]
Mega Force (FR) PAL
80
[70]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
67
[71]
Mean Machines (UK) PAL
81
[72]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) PAL
81
[73]
Player One (FR) PAL
70
[74]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
70
[75]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
68
[76]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
73
[77]
Sega Master System
 77
Based on
14 reviews

Mercs

Master System, EU
Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs SMS EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, IT
Mercs SMS IT back.jpgNospine.pngMercs SMS IT cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, AU
Mercs SMS AU cover.jpg
Cover
Mercs SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, BR
Mercs SMS BR Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs SMS BR Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, MX
Mercs SMS MX Box.jpg
Cover
Mercs SMS EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Mercs SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual

Technical information

Main article: Mercs/Technical information.

External links

  • Sega of Japan Virtual Console pages: Mega Drive
  • Nintendo catalogue pages: US, UK, AU

References

  1. ↑ Credits known CS1 (1991) manager Makoto Oshitani
  2. ↑ File:Mercs MD JP Box.jpg
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-07-20 09:51)
  4. ↑ File:Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg
  5. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "September 1991" (JP; 1991-08-08), page 7
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "December 1991" (US; 1991-1x-xx), page 75
  7. ↑ Sega Pro, "Christmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 7
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 MegaTech, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 92
  9. ↑ Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1991-12-09), page 27
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Computer & Video Games, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-15), page 18
  11. ↑ Supergame, "Fevereiro 1992" (BR; 1992-02-xx), page 30
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 Sega Power, "February 1992" (UK; 1992-01-02), page 12
  13. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/software/08.html (Wayback Machine: 2018-03-06 23:35)
  14. ↑ http://vc.sega.jp:80/vc_senjo2 (Wayback Machine: 2009-02-03 13:09)
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 http://www.nintendolife.com/games/megadrive/wolf_of_the_battlefield_mercs (Wayback Machine: 2017-06-09 03:24)
  16. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Wolf-of-the-Battlefield-MERCS-280141.html (archive.today)
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/xEzg9EmKxrvklt3OVu_Wit0IrKxzncQc (Wayback Machine: 2010-11-22 22:50)
  18. ↑ http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19788&pageID=4 (Wayback Machine: 2012-04-03 02:48)
  19. ↑ https://www.nintendo.com/jp/topics/article/85f31051-656e-4a32-b8b9-cae57e818176 (archive.today)
  20. ↑ https://preservetube.com/watch?v=eIIhsiej60Y (Wayback Machine: 2024-11-27 01:29)
  21. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecII-1bkikw (archive.today)
  22. ↑ @NintendoEurope on X (archive.today)
  23. ↑ @NintendoUK on X (archive.today)
  24. ↑ @NintendoAUNZ on X (archive.today)
  25. ↑ File:MD UK Box Back SonicEASDH Alt.jpg
  26. ↑ File:Mercs MD credits.pdf
  27. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 128
  28. ↑ ACE, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-08), page 104
  29. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "October 1991" (JP; 1991-09-07), page 35
  30. ↑ Consoles +, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-07), page 56
  31. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 132
  32. ↑ Cool Gamer, "9" (RU; 2002-10-13), page 31
  33. ↑ Computer + Video Giochi, "Gennaio 1992" (IT; 199x-xx-xx), page 82
  34. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 69
  35. ↑ Famitsu, "1991-10-04" (JP; 1991-09-20), page 39
  36. ↑ GamePro, "November 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 54
  37. ↑ Games-X, "31st October-6th November 1991" (UK; 1991-10-31), page 32
  38. ↑ Game Informer, "November/December 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 33
  39. ↑ Game Zone, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-22), page 35
  40. ↑ Hippon Super, "October 1991" (JP; 1991-09-04), page 90
  41. ↑ 41.0 41.1 Hobby Consolas, "Febrero 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 48
  42. ↑ Joypad, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-10-1x), page 54
  43. ↑ Joystick, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-1x-xx), page 142
  44. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "January 1993" (UK; 199x-xx-xx), page 93
  45. ↑ Mega Drive Fan, "December 1991" (JP; 1991-11-08), page 91
  46. ↑ Mega, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 21
  47. ↑ Mega Force, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-19), page 88
  48. ↑ MegaTech, "Xmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-06), page 40
  49. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Febrero 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 26
  50. ↑ Mean Machines, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-28), page 78
  51. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 139
  52. ↑ Player One, "Février 1992" (FR; 1992-xx-xx), page 87
  53. ↑ Play Time, "2/92" (DE; 1992-01-08), page 94
  54. ↑ Power Play, "1/92" (DE; 1991-12-11), page 175
  55. ↑ Score, "Květen 1994" (CZ; 1994-05-01), page 56
  56. ↑ Sega Power, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-05), page 39
  57. ↑ Sega Pro, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-21), page 38
  58. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 66
  59. ↑ Sega Force, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 76
  60. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Review, "1" (RU; 1995-04-03), page 94
  61. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 85
  62. ↑ Top Secret, "Luty 1995" (PL; 1995-xx-xx), page 57
  63. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 113
  64. ↑ Video Games, "4/91" (DE; 1991-12-06), page 25
  65. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 142
  66. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 144
  67. ↑ Games-X, "28th November-4th December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-28), page 28
  68. ↑ Joypad, "Janvier 1992" (FR; 1991-12-1x), page 58
  69. ↑ Joystick, "Janvier 1992" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 154
  70. ↑ Mega Force, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-19), page 89
  71. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Marzo 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 36
  72. ↑ Mean Machines, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-27), page 64
  73. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 135
  74. ↑ Player One, "Décembre 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 91
  75. ↑ Sega Power, "March 1992" (UK; 1992-02-06), page 45
  76. ↑ Sega Pro, "Christmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 58
  77. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 71


Mercs

Mercs title.png

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