Untouchables

The Untouchables - the 1989 multi-stage action game for Commodore 64
from Ocean Software.

Step into Eliot Ness’s shoes and lead the Untouchables in their mission
to bring down Al Capone through a series of gunfights, raids, and tense
rescues.

Core loop
- complete six arcade-style levels based on key movie scenes
- alternate between shooting galleries, platform chases, and rescue
sequences
- switch weapons and characters to handle different objectives
- survive each mission to move closer to Capone’s conviction

Systems and items
- weapons - pistol, shotgun, and tommy gun with limited ammo
- cover mechanic - duck behind crates and walls during shootouts
- hostage scenes - line up crosshair shots under pressure
- scrolling shootouts - move laterally while targeting enemies fast

Level design and feel
Each stage uses its own mechanic: side-scrolling shootouts, first-person
gunplay, and overhead pursuit. Crisp sprite work and strong sound design
deliver cinematic variety rarely seen on C64.

Why it is notable
- Ocean’s hallmark licensed game based on Brian De Palma’s 1987 film
- six distinct gameplay styles unified by tight pacing and atmosphere
- acclaimed for Jonathan Dunn’s moody, film-like soundtrack

Tips
- aim for headshots in gallery scenes to conserve ammo
- learn each thug’s pattern before moving out of cover
- in baby-carriage rescue, keep steady pace—hesitation breaks timing

At a glance
Year - 1989
Developer - Ocean Software
Design and programming - John Meegan - Paul Hughes
Graphics - Dawn Drake
Music - Jonathan Dunn
Publisher - Ocean Software
Genre - Multi-stage action
Players - 1
Controls - Joystick in port 2