Fight your way through a weird war zone in NAM-1975

NAM-1975 is a side-scrolling arcade shooter released in 1990 for the Neo Geo arcade platform. Although the title refers to the Vietnam War and the game makes frequent use of references to classic Vietnam War films like Platoon and Full Metal Jacket, this isn’t really a historical war game; it’s an action game which borrows from the imagery of historical games.

Fast-paced arcade action

NAM-1975 is a classic arcade side-scrolling shooter with a relatively complex control scheme. You control both your character and the cross-hair that indicates where his shots will go. Hold down the fire button and you can use the joystick to move the targeting reticule without moving your character. Your character can use a variety of different weapons as well as evading enemy fire with a defensive roll. As the game progresses, it reveals a plotline that has strong science-fiction elements, which could be a little jarring if you came expecting a Vietnam game.

An interesting oddity

NAM-1975 is an odd game that nonetheless provides enjoyable, fast-paced arcade action. Like many arcade games of its era, it can be frustratingly difficult, but if you don’t mind that, it offers plenty to like.