6 Shots, Or Only 5?

 

 

Graphics
The graphics are average, but do include cutscenes of Harry's approach to Alcatraz and his final encounter with the Anaconda.

Sound
The music is repetitive, and annoying, but you get used to it.  The game contains a fairly large amount of digitized speech, (for a NES game in 1990, anyway), and obviously the sound department saved their contribution for that.
Gameplay
The gameplay is pretty straightforward, although it does manage to offer a few nice variations. Especially the first level, which is non-linear and may provide the most fun for those just looking to play around as Dirty Harry.  Here you will find a lot of things to do, most of which aren't necessary to advance to level two.  Among these, you can rescue a prostitute, collect power-ups from citizens, and avoid lasers and snakes.  You can also find a gas mask to wear in rooms with leaking gas pipes, set explosives to open safes, or rob a wino or two.

Control
The control is fairly good, and you quickly are able to perform the various feats required, such as hanging/dropping from telephone wires or ledges.  One drawback, though, is definitely the requirement of two buttons to jump.

Overall
While the plot doesn't really have anything to do with the films, it does contain quite a few references to them.  There are LAWS rockets, harpoon guns, explosive RC cars, and even chili dogs that are used as power-ups (sans ketchup, of course).  Both of Harry's famous lines are included as well, ("Make my day", "I know what you're thinking..."), and the showdown occurs on Alcatraz island.

Using the codes is recommended, though, because it can be impossible to avoid getting hit.   This is especially true on level 3, where the villain apparently has called in a small army.