Airwolf

Airwolf - the 1984 helicopter action game for Commodore 64 from Elite
Systems.

Pilot the stealth gunship Airwolf on a high-risk rescue mission deep
inside a fortified underground base packed with traps and defenders.

Core loop
- navigate tight caverns in side view using precise throttle control
- destroy defense systems and dodge moving barriers
- locate and rescue hostages before time and fuel run out

Systems and items
- fuel gauge - constantly drains; refuel at pods mid-mission
- weapon systems - missiles and cannon with limited ammo
- radar - track enemy turrets and target rooms
- lives - lost by crash or hostage death; continue resets progress

Level design and feel
Narrow, scrolling corridors demand exact flying and timing. Each screen
adds new hazards—laser doors, crushers, gun turrets—turning exploration
into a tense pattern-memory challenge.

Why it is notable
- based on the 1980s TV series featuring the supersonic helicopter
- known for its difficulty and detailed chopper sprite on C64
- part of Elite’s early wave of licensed TV and movie conversions

Tips
- move in short bursts to control momentum through tight spaces
- shoot power pods for refueling before tackling deeper sections
- memorize turret placement—reflexes alone won’t save you

At a glance
Year - 1984
Developer - Elite Systems
Design and programming - David Whittaker - Richard Wilcox
Graphics - Elite Systems team
Music - David Whittaker
Publisher - Elite Systems
Genre - Action shooter
Players - 1
Controls - Joystick in port 2