Rush'n Attack

Game Overview

Rush’n Attack (originally released as Green Beret in arcade format and Japanese releases) is a side-scrolling action platformer developed and published by Konami for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Famicom (FC). Renamed for its North American console port, the game captures high-stakes infiltration action set against a Cold War military backdrop.

Players control a special forces soldier tasked with infiltrating four vast enemy facilities: an enemy supply depot, missile base, harbor, and nuclear installation. The core mechanic sets the game apart from typical run-and-gun shooters: the protagonist relies on a close-range combat knife as his main weapon. Enemies rush from both sides, requiring precise timing, crouching strikes, and quick maneuverability to stay alive.

Special weapons, such as rocket launchers, mortar shells, and throwing grenades, can be acquired by defeating specific enemy commanders. These weapons provide temporary ranged firepower for clearing dense groups of soldiers or clearing boss barricades. Featuring fast action, strategic positioning, and simultaneous two-player co-op, Rush’n Attack is an iconic title from the Golden Age of NES gaming.

Quick Specifications

Key Features

• Melee-Focused Action: Primary reliance on close-quarters knife combat creates a tense and unique gameplay dynamic.

• Special Secondary Arsenal: Collect limited ammo power-ups like bazookas, grenades, and flame throwers from enemy officer drops.

• Four Mission Stages: Battle through hostile military sectors including weapon bases, naval harbors, and missile silo grounds.

• Simultaneous Two-Player Co-op: Join forces with a second player to coordinate attacks and survive relentless waves of enemy troops.

• Varied Enemy Types: Face off against infantry, guard dogs, mortar gunners, paratroopers, and flamethrower units.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Why is the game named Rush’n Attack in North America?

A: The North American title is a play on the phrase “Russian Attack,” referencing the Cold War theme of infiltrating an enemy eastern-bloc military facility, whereas the Japanese and European versions retained the original arcade title, Green Beret.

Q: How do you get special weapons in Rush’n Attack?

A: Special weapons are dropped by defeating yellow-suited enemy officers or commanders. Once picked up, they grant a limited number of uses for rocket launchers, grenades, or flamethrowers.

Q: Does Rush’n Attack support continuous firing or rapid knife swings?

A: No, knife swings require tapping the attack button with precise timing. Button mashing without positioning often leaves your soldier vulnerable to incoming enemy infantry and hazards.

Q: Are there extra lives cheat codes in Rush’n Attack?

A: The North American NES release includes secret button combinations on the title screen depending on the region, allowing players to start with additional lives to help navigate its notorious difficulty.