Difference between revisions of "Mercs"

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'''''{{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.
 
'''''{{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 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 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 ''Mercs'' was banned from sale in Germany{{fileref|MD UK Box Back SonicEASDH Alt.jpg}}.
+
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).
+
''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 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.
 +
 
 +
====Items====
 +
Items are found in crates.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Crate
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=200|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 1
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 2
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 3
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 4
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 5
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 6
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 7
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Arcade, Final Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Original Mode===
 +
{{ScreenThumb|Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png|width=200|Pause menu}}
 +
{{ScreenThumb|Mercs, Original, Store.png|width=200|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. 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====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Rifle
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=16}}
 +
| 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.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| 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.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====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.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Crate
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | crop_width=128 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| 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.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=First Aid Box
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 16 units of the life gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Special First Aid Box
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Mercs, Items.png | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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 | 1.5 | 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=200|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Coast
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 1 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Forest
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 2 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Cliff
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Lakes and Bogs
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Desert
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 5 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Streets
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 6.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 6 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Port
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 7.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 7 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Enemy Hideout
 +
| screenshot=Mercs, Original, Stage 8.png
 +
| screenshot2=Mercs, Original, Stage 8 Boss.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==History==
 +
===Legacy===
 +
The original arcade game was re-released on 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''.
  
 
==Versions==
 
==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===
 
===Localised names===
 
{{aka
 
{{aka

Revision as of 22:57, 4 April 2022

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
Publisher: Sega
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Master System
Halifax (Italy)
Licensor: Capcom
Original system(s): Capcom CPS-1
Developer(s) of original games: Capcom
Sound driver: SMPS Z80
Genre: Shooting[1][2][3]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega Drive
JP 		¥7,000 (7,210)7,000e[4] G-4051
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$59.9559.95[5] 1119
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		1119
Sega Mega Drive
PT
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£34.9534.95[7] 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[9] 9007
Sega Master System
AU
Sega Master System
BR
Wii Virtual Console
JP ▼ 		600pts600[11]
CERO: B
Wii Virtual Console
US ▼ 		800pts800[14]
ESRB: Everyone 10+
Wii Virtual Console
EU ▼ 		800pts800[12]
Wii Virtual Console
AU ▼ 		800pts800[15]
OFLC: Parental Guidance (PG)
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[16].

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

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 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.

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.

Stages

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 1 Boss.png

Stage 1

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 2 Boss.png

Stage 2

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 3 Boss.png

Stage 3

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 4 Boss.png

Stage 4

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 5 Boss.png

Stage 5

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6.png

Mercs, Arcade, Stage 6 Boss.png

Stage 6

Mercs, Arcade, Final Boss.png

Stage 7

Original Mode

Mercs, Original, Pause Menu.png

Pause menu

Mercs, Original, Store.png

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. 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

Coast

Mercs, Original, Stage 2.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 2 Boss.png

Forest

Mercs, Original, Stage 3.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 3 Boss.png

Cliff

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

Desert

Mercs, Original, Stage 6.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 6 Boss.png

Streets

Mercs, Original, Stage 7.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 7 Boss.png

Port

Mercs, Original, Stage 8.png

Mercs, Original, Stage 8 Boss.png

Enemy Hideout

History

Legacy

The original arcade game was re-released on 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.

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

Mega Drive version


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
[17]
ACE (UK)
25
[18]
Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
73
[19]
Consoles + (FR)
93
[20]
Console XS (UK) PAL
75
[21]
Cool Gamer (RU)
70
[22]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
92
[7]
Computer + Video Giochi (IT)
90
[23]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
88
[24]
Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
60
[25]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
88
[26]
Games-X (UK)
90
[27]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
85
[28]
Game Zone (UK) PAL
78
[29]
Hippon Super (JP) NTSC-J
40
[30]
Hobby Consolas (ES)
90
[31]
Joypad (FR) NTSC-J
90
[32]
Joystick (FR) NTSC-J
90
[33]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
13
[34]
Mega Drive Fan (JP) NTSC-J
72
[35]
Mega (UK) PAL
72
[36]
Mega Force (FR) PAL
80
[37]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
90
[38]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
90
[6]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
67
[39]
Mean Machines (UK)
88
[40]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
88
[41]
Player One (FR)
80
[42]
Play Time (DE)
57
[43]
Power Play (DE)
70
[44]
Score (CZ)
45
[45]
Sega Power (UK) NTSC-J
45
[46]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
74
[47]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
75
[48]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
89
[49]
Sega Mega Drive Review (RU)
80
[50]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
80
[51]
Top Secret (PL)
100
[52]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
68
[53]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US) NTSC-U
70
[5]
Video Games (DE)
70
[54]
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
[55]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK) PAL
81
[56]
Games-X (UK) PAL
90
[57]
Hobby Consolas (ES) PAL
90
[31]
Joypad (FR)
74
[58]
Joystick (FR) PAL
85
[59]
Mega Force (FR) PAL
80
[60]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
67
[61]
Mean Machines (UK) PAL
81
[62]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) PAL
81
[63]
Player One (FR) PAL
70
[64]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
70
[65]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
68
[66]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
73
[67]
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

Technical information

ROM dump status

System Hash Size Build Date Source Comments
Sega Mega Drive
✔
CRC32 16113a72
MD5 4643f5da530463356ce56fae5c346ddc
SHA-1 ab633913147325190ef13bd10f3ef5b06d3a9e28
1MB 1991-08 Cartridge
Sega Master System
 ?
CRC32 d7416b83
MD5 7d5696c3da0dbed04b35543f7bdbef40
SHA-1 f2cfad96a116bde9a91240eb1ad520dc448fa20f
512kB Cartridge (EU)

External links

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

References

  1. ↑ File:Mercs MD JP Box.jpg
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-07-20 09:51)
  3. ↑ File:Mercs SMS EU Box.jpg
  4. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "September 1991" (JP; 1991-08-08), page 7
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "December 1991" (US; 1991-1x-xx), page 75
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 MegaTech, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 92
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Computer & Video Games, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-15), page 18
  8. ↑ Supergame, "Fevereiro 1992" (BR; 1992-02-xx), page 30
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 Sega Power, "February 1992" (UK; 1992-01-02), page 12
  10. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/software/08.html (Wayback Machine: 2018-03-06 23:35)
  11. ↑ http://vc.sega.jp:80/vc_senjo2 (Wayback Machine: 2009-02-03 13:09)
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 http://www.nintendolife.com/games/megadrive/wolf_of_the_battlefield_mercs (Wayback Machine: 2017-06-09 03:24)
  13. ↑ https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Wolf-of-the-Battlefield-MERCS-280141.html (archive.today)
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/xEzg9EmKxrvklt3OVu_Wit0IrKxzncQc (Wayback Machine: 2010-11-22 22:50)
  15. ↑ http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19788&pageID=4 (Wayback Machine: 2012-04-03 02:48)
  16. ↑ File:MD UK Box Back SonicEASDH Alt.jpg
  17. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 128
  18. ↑ ACE, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-08), page 104
  19. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "October 1991" (JP; 1991-09-07), page 35
  20. ↑ Consoles +, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-07), page 56
  21. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 132
  22. ↑ Cool Gamer, "9" (RU; 2002-10-13), page 31
  23. ↑ Computer + Video Giochi, "Gennaio 1992" (IT; 199x-xx-xx), page 82
  24. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 69
  25. ↑ Famitsu, "1991-10-04" (JP; 1991-09-20), page 39
  26. ↑ GamePro, "November 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 54
  27. ↑ Games-X, "31st October-6th November 1991" (UK; 1991-10-31), page 32
  28. ↑ Game Informer, "November/December 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 33
  29. ↑ Game Zone, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-22), page 35
  30. ↑ Hippon Super, "October 1991" (JP; 1991-09-04), page 90
  31. ↑ 31.0 31.1 Hobby Consolas, "Febrero 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 48
  32. ↑ Joypad, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-10-1x), page 54
  33. ↑ Joystick, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-1x-xx), page 142
  34. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "January 1993" (UK; 199x-xx-xx), page 93
  35. ↑ Mega Drive Fan, "December 1991" (JP; 1991-11-08), page 91
  36. ↑ Mega, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 21
  37. ↑ Mega Force, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-19), page 88
  38. ↑ MegaTech, "Xmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-06), page 40
  39. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Febrero 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 26
  40. ↑ Mean Machines, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-28), page 78
  41. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 139
  42. ↑ Player One, "Février 1992" (FR; 1992-xx-xx), page 87
  43. ↑ Play Time, "2/92" (DE; 1992-01-08), page 94
  44. ↑ Power Play, "1/92" (DE; 1991-12-11), page 175
  45. ↑ Score, "Květen 1994" (CZ; 1994-05-01), page 56
  46. ↑ Sega Power, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-05), page 39
  47. ↑ Sega Pro, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-21), page 38
  48. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 66
  49. ↑ Sega Force, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 76
  50. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Review, "1" (RU; 1995-04-03), page 94
  51. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 85
  52. ↑ Top Secret, "Luty 1995" (PL; 1995-xx-xx), page 57
  53. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 113
  54. ↑ Video Games, "4/91" (DE; 1991-12-06), page 25
  55. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 142
  56. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 144
  57. ↑ Games-X, "28th November-4th December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-28), page 28
  58. ↑ Joypad, "Janvier 1992" (FR; 1991-12-1x), page 58
  59. ↑ Joystick, "Janvier 1992" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 154
  60. ↑ Mega Force, "Novembre 1991" (FR; 1991-11-19), page 89
  61. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Marzo 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 36
  62. ↑ Mean Machines, "January 1992" (UK; 1991-12-27), page 64
  63. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 135
  64. ↑ Player One, "Décembre 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 91
  65. ↑ Sega Power, "March 1992" (UK; 1992-02-06), page 45
  66. ↑ Sega Pro, "Christmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 58
  67. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 71


Mercs

Mercs title.png

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