1942: Joint Strike
A 2008 remake of Capcom's 1984 shooter 1942.
Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons
1942: Joint Strike is a 2008 vertically scrolling shooter video game developed by Backbone Entertainment and published by Capcom for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. It was released on Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network as a remake of Capcom's 1984 video game 1942.
- developer
- Backbone Entertainment
- publisher
- Capcom
- release_year
- 2008
- platforms
- Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
- genre
- Vertically scrolling shooter
- based_on
- 1942 (1984)
Lore & Background
1942: Joint Strike is an amalgamation of various elements from the 19XX series. It incorporates the health meter and bomb system from 1943: The Battle of Midway; charge-fire and rank increases from 1941: Counter Attack; and the fighter lineup, bomb-based end-level bonus, and level rank system from 19XX: The War Against Destiny. The game received 'average' reviews on both platforms according to Metacritic.
Reader's Guide
1942: Joint Strike represents a modernized take on the classic 1942 arcade shooter, blending mechanics from multiple entries in the 19XX series. Its significance lies in being a digital release on Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, making the franchise accessible to a new generation. Critics noted its short length and 'spotty' online play, but praised the graphical overhaul. Anthony Gallegos of 1Up.com argued that the brevity added to its 'arcade' appeal. Sales figures show the Xbox 360 version sold 111,195 units worldwide by January 2011, rising to 119,376 units by the end of 2011. Its inclusion in the Capcom Digital Collection ensured continued availability.
Did You Know?
- 1942: Joint Strike is a remake of Capcom's 1984 video game 1942.
- The game includes elements from 1943: The Battle of Midway, 1941: Counter Attack, and 19XX: The War Against Destiny.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 1942: Joint Strike?
It is a 2008 vertically scrolling shooter that serves as a modern remake of Capcom's 1984 arcade title 1942. Backbone Entertainment developed the game, and Capcom published it for next-generation consoles.
Who developed and published 1942: Joint Strike?
Backbone Entertainment handled all development work, while Capcom acted as the publisher. The finished product shipped as a digital download through Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network in 2008.
What platforms can I play 1942: Joint Strike on?
The game originally launched on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 as a paid digital download. It is also included in the Capcom Digital Collection, which extends its availability to newer hardware.
How does 1942: Joint Strike differ from the original 1942?
The 1984 arcade version was a straightforward, pixel-art shooter, whereas the 2008 remake was rebuilt from the ground up with modern visuals, refined controls, and expanded stage design. Both share the core premise of piloting a fighter plane through World War II-era missions, but the remake presents that loop in a far more polished format.
Where can I buy or play 1942: Joint Strike today?
The most straightforward option is the Capcom Digital Collection bundle, which includes the title alongside other Capcom shooters. It was also previously sold as a standalone download on the Xbox 360 and PS3 storefronts.
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