

Exolon is a classic side-scrolling action game developed by Hewson Consultants and released in 1987 for various 8-bit home computer platforms. Players control Vitorc, a space marine equipped with an armored exoskeleton suit, as he navigates through 125 screens of hostile alien terrain. The game's core gameplay revolves around precise shooting, strategic grenade use, and skillful maneuvering to overcome a relentless array of enemies and environmental hazards. Known for its high difficulty level, Exolon challenges players with fast-paced action that demands quick reflexes and careful planning. What sets Exolon apart is its distinctive visual style, which pushed the graphical boundaries of 8-bit computers in its era. The game features detailed sprites and backgrounds that create a unique sci-fi atmosphere, complemented by a pulsing soundtrack that enhances the immersive experience. This combination of challenging gameplay, striking visuals, and atmospheric audio helped Exolon stand out in the late 1980s gaming landscape, earning it a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Despite its simple premise, the game's intense action and memorable presentation have secured its place as a notable title in the history of side-scrolling shooters.
ShooterPlatformActionScience fictionflip screenCommodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum, Atari ST/STE, Amiga, Amstrad CPC
Log it
Sign in to log this.
Where do you stand?
Three questions people argue about. Answer first, then see how your circle and the community split.
Would Exolon hit harder if it came out today rather than in 1987?
Sign in to answerBe the first to answer.
Has Exolon aged badly?
Sign in to answerBe the first to answer.
Is this Hewson Consultants's best work?
Sign in to answerBe the first to answer.
Ask the title a question
Answered from what people have written, never made up: a verdict, how much when it's a matter of degree, and the sentences that say so, quoted with their names. Reviews here first, then TMDB's reviews and the title's Wikipedia plot and reception. If nothing settles it, you can put it to the curators.
Character
Earnest, plot-driven, grave and relentless.
- earnestironic
- character-ledplot-driven
- gravecomic
- contemplativerelentless
- resolvedopen-ended
Who loves it, who doesn't
No profiled raters yet.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
About the game
- Platforms
- Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum, Atari ST/STE, Amiga, Amstrad CPC
- Developer
- Hewson Consultants
- Publisher
- Hewson Consultants
- Released
- December 31, 1987
- Modes
- Single player
- Perspective
- Side view
IGDB rating 8.8/10 from 8 ratings.
Screenshots




Similar in taste
Closest on the same fourteen dimensions, from everything scored on Curator Co. Other media included when they land close.
Nex Machina 201779% alikeBoth plot-driven, relentless, grave.
R-Type II 198976% alikeBoth earnest, plot-driven, grave.
Ninja Gaiden 198876% alikeBoth earnest, plot-driven, grave.
DoDonPachi Saidaioujou 201276% alikeBoth plot-driven, earnest, grave.
Mushihime-sama Futari 200675% alikeBoth plot-driven, earnest, grave.
Batsugun 199374% alikeBoth plot-driven, earnest, grave.
Deliverance: Stormlord II 199074% alikeBoth plot-driven, grave, earnest.
Armed Police Batrider 199774% alikeBoth plot-driven, grave, relentless.
D.O.A. 198855% alikeFilm · Both grave, earnest, plot-driven; this one is more effortless.
Young Sherlock 202655% alikeSeries · Both earnest, grave, relentless.
Often played with
Similar games per IGDB. Opening one adds it to Curator Co.










