Operation Thunderbolt Overview
Operation Thunderbolt continues the story of its predecessor, placing the player in the role of a hero tasked with rescuing hostages from terrorists. The scenario involves a hijacked airliner diverted to Africa, where captives are hidden across multiple locations.
Gameplay consists of eight distinct missions where the player engages soldiers, helicopters, and tanks using firearms and rocket bombs. The perspective and vehicle change periodically, with sequences involving jeeps, boats, and on-foot combat. Resources like ammunition and health are finite, but can be replenished by collecting falling crates or, inadvertently, by eliminating animals that cross the battlefield. These crates may also contain protective gear or alternative weapons.
Player survival is managed through an energy bar and a system of three lives. Damage is sustained from enemy fire, explosives, and notably from harming hostages, which occurs easily when using area-effect weapons like rocket bombs. The final mission aboard the plane is particularly challenging due to a hostage in a blue dress frequently obstructing fire.
The conclusion of the game is not fixed, offering two possible endings. The outcome is determined by the total number of hostages rescued and a specific choice during the final confrontation regarding the pilot.
