Crime Wave

About

Crime Wave is a side-scrolling shooter developed by The Code Monkeys and released in 1990. You play as a cop navigating through gritty urban environments like slums and city streets, battling a criminal gang threatening high-profile targets. The game uses digitized graphics, which give it a distinctive look for its time. Gameplay centers around fast-paced shooting, with each level featuring waves of enemies and set pieces pushing you toward the next objective. The plot follows your mission to dismantle a drug cartel and rescue a key political figure’s daughter, blending action with a campy narrative. While not a critical darling, Crime Wave stands out for its retro visuals and direct approach to shooter gameplay. Its levels mix varied settings and straightforward combat, appealing to fans of classic arcade-style challenges. The game’s 1990s DOS and Amiga release made it a niche title, but its blend of digitized sprites and chaotic action has earned it a small but dedicated following among retro gamers. The mission to save the daughter adds a quirky subplot, keeping the tone light despite the violent gameplay.