An isometric tactical shooter by Blizzard, slow and strategic, with a truly unique feel. A standout curiosity well worth rediscovering.
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Category
Action1 player12+
Description
Side-scrolling action game featuring a combat pilot across varied military missions. Published by Thalion, released in Europe in 1994. Helicopter and on-foot missions, weapons and gadgets to collect, mission bosses and detailed 16-bit visuals. An original little-known military action game on Super Nintendo.
The European PAL SNES edition of the Blizzard / Interplay cinematic run'n'gun (rebadged Blackhawk in PAL, Blackthorne in the US), with a short PAL print. The PAL cart is noticeably rarer than the US version, and the PAL-exclusive 'Blackhawk' branding documents a notable regional particularity. PAL boxed CIB in the original cardboard box climbs steadily, sustained by physical scarcity and by the pre-Warcraft Blizzard aura.
Is Blackhawk still worth playing in 2026?
Also released as Blackhawk in Europe, Blackthorne is a platform action signed by Blizzard with a very singular touch, namely rotoscoped animation in the Prince of Persia tradition, firearms aimed left or right and dark corridors crossed at a measured pace. The blend of thinking, dialogue and gunfights builds a narrative tension rare for the system. The slow tempo may surprise, but the atmosphere remains immersive. Recommended to fans of off norm 16 bit experiences and auteur driven games.
