Commander '85

Commander '85 is a sci-fi thriller set in the Chicago suburbs in 1985. A boy receives a Commander 85 computer with artificial intelligence as a birthday present, but military experiments spiral out of control and threaten the world with nuclear war. With a group of friends and a crazy scientist, you try to end the Cold War, uncover the secret of the Commander computers and discover the truth behind the Roswell incident.

The Commander

Your choices shape how the computer’s AI responds to you. You can build its trust and friendliness, hear its sarcastic comments and watch it quarrel with your parents. Hundreds of possibilities and random plot elements make each playthrough different, with choices leading to one of three endings.

Life in the 1980s

The game explores the culture and problems of Polish immigrants in 1980s America. Randomized events and surroundings include conversations about school and parental nagging about time spent at the computer. You also take on chores your parents assign, which can get in the way of saving the world but may keep you from being grounded or banned from playing.

Activities and atmosphere

Optional tasks and activities add variety between playthroughs. You can install, run and delete games and programs on the Commander, and listen to radio stations made for the game, featuring programs, commercials and music. The setting includes 1980s technology, Easter eggs and nostalgic references, while the graphics draw on VHS recordings and period-specific movies.