G.I. Joe hits different when it boots instantly in your browser. Released in 1991 on the Arcade, this retro classic from Taxan USA is ready the second you press start — no downloads, no setup.
The game was produced by Ken Lobb and developed by the same Japanese team that later formed KID. A sequel developed by the same team, titled G.I.
🎮 USB or Bluetooth controller? Plug it in, Once Detected Click Here to Open Your Controller Options
⭐ Premium members can click any key below to remap the controls. Go Premium
| Action | Keyboard | Controller |
|---|---|---|
| D-Pad Up | ↑ | D-Pad up |
| D-Pad Down | ↓ | D-Pad down |
| D-Pad Left | ← | D-Pad left |
| D-Pad Right | → | D-Pad right |
| B (bottom) | X | Bottom face |
| A (right) | Z | Right face |
| Y (left) | S | Left face |
| X (top) | A | Top face |
| L | Q | Left shoulder |
| R | E | Right shoulder |
| Start | Enter | Start |
| Insert Coin | V | Select |
⭐ Premium members can click any key below to remap this game's controls. Go Premium
| Action | Keyboard | Arcade input |
|---|---|---|
| Move | · · · · | Joystick (8-way) |
| Shoot | · | Button 1 |
| Super Weapon | · | Button 2 |
| Button 3 | · | Button 3 |
| Start | · | Start |
| Insert Coin | · | Select |
Create a free account to unlock the full experience for :
Show the world what Retro is really about.
First registered run claims the top spot. It won't stay easy for long.
Playing counts once you're signed in — register free in the player above.
The Story Behind G.I. Joe
Joe: A Real American Hero is a 1991 run and gun game published by Taxan for the Nintendo Entertainment System based on the toyline of the same name. The game was produced by Ken Lobb and developed by the same Japanese team that later formed KID. A sequel developed by the same team, titled G.I.
Joe: The Atlantis Factor, was released the following year, but was published by Capcom after Taxan went out of business. Joe on the NES garnered positive reception from reviewers since its initial release; praise was given to the colorful graphics, ability to choose between characters and form a team, soundtrack, controls, gameplay and music but the occasional flickering issues was criticized. Retrospective commentary has been positive.
How G.I. Joe Plays
After penetrating the base, the player's team must plant a certain amount of bombs inside the base before time runs out. A password is given at the end of each stage. Afterward, the player must fight against the base's commander.
A sixth character, Hawk, gives orders to the team between missions, and becomes available as a playable character for the final stage. Each stage is broken up into three different segments: In the first segment, the player's team would fight their way into one of Cobra's bases. The player can choose a team of three for each area.
Why Players Still Load It Up
Electronic Gaming Monthlys four reviewers praised the colorful background visuals, ability to choose between characters and form a team, gameplay and music. Likewise, Nintendo Power gave positive remarks to the graphics, controls, challenge and thematic, stating that "Taxan has combined great control and graphics for a winner." VideoGames & Computer Entertainments B.W. felt it was a good action title, giving positive commentary to the colorful graphics, smooth character animations, sound design and playability but criticized the occasional flickering. Retrospective commentary has been positive.
Joe: A Real American Hero is a 1991 run and gun game published by Taxan for the Nintendo Entertainment System based on the toyline of the same name. Regardless, Titus recommending the title and praised the detailed graphical presentation for being faithful to the franchise and core action. Hardcore Gaming 101s Sotenga felt it was more refined than Low G Man but not as fast-paced as other games such as Contra, criticizing the slow pacing of later stages as well as unavoidable boss patterns and character balancing.
G.I. Joe — Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a controller to play G.I. Joe?
No. Keyboard controls work out of the box (see the controls panel), and any USB or Bluetooth gamepad is detected automatically.
Who developed G.I. Joe?
Development was handled by KID, with Taxan USA publishing the release.
Where can I buy the original G.I. Joe?
See the "Other Places You Can Get This Game" section below the article for legitimate places to buy real-world versions.
What console was G.I. Joe released on?
Taxan USA shipped G.I. Joe for the Arcade back in 1991, and this page runs that release.