Commander Keen in Invasion of the Vorticons

Commander Keen in Invasion of the Vorticons is a legendary side-scrolling platformer from the early 90s that helped define PC gaming. As Billy Blaze—aka Commander Keen—you must save Earth from an alien invasion using only your wits, pogo stick, and raygun. Explore bizarre alien worlds, outsmart hostile creatures, and uncover secrets in this vibrant DOS classic that still oozes charm and challenge today.

How to play Commander Keen in Invasion of the Vorticons

Game Overview

This groundbreaking 3-part series puts you in the helmet of 8-year-old genius Billy Blaze, who dons his brother’s football helmet and becomes Commander Keen. After building a spaceship in his backyard, he sets off to stop the evil Vorticons from destroying Earth. The trilogy includes:

• Episode 1: Marooned on Mars
• Episode 2: The Earth Explodes
• Episode 3: Keen Must Die!

Each episode is packed with unique levels, alien environments, and quirky enemies to overcome.

Controls & Compatibility

On desktop, Commander Keen is best played with a keyboard using DOSBox emulation. Default controls include:

• Arrow keys: Move left/right, climb ladders
• Ctrl: Jump
• Alt: Fire raygun
• Space: Use pogo stick (after acquired)

On mobile, virtual buttons are available for basic movement and jumping. Controller support may vary depending on your device.

Exploration and Objectives

Each level challenges you to navigate platforms, avoid traps, and outmaneuver hostile aliens like Yorp, Garg, and Vorticon Warriors. To finish a level, reach the exit door. In Episode 1, your main mission is to recover the four stolen ship parts to leave Mars.

Items & Power-Ups

Scattered throughout levels are items that give you points or utility:

• Raygun ammo – Needed to zap enemies
• Pogo stick – Found early on; allows high jumping
• Keycards – Open locked doors
• Collectibles – Ice cream, books, soda cans, and more for points

Enemies & Strategy

Enemies vary by episode. Some, like Yorps, are harmless, while others like the Vorticon Elites will chase you relentlessly. Plan jumps carefully, use the pogo stick to reach tough areas, and don’t waste raygun ammo—it’s limited!

Saving Your Game

You can save your progress at any time from the game menu, which is essential for longer play sessions or tough levels. Each save records your position, lives, ammo, and items.

FAQ

What is Commander Keen in Invasion of the Vorticons?

A trilogy of DOS platformers released in 1990 by id Software, starring a boy genius who fights to stop an alien invasion.

How many episodes are there?

The trilogy consists of three episodes: Marooned on Mars, The Earth Explodes, and Keen Must Die!

How do I get the pogo stick?

You’ll find the pogo stick in the first episode, “Marooned on Mars,” typically within the second or third level. Once found, it can be activated with the Space bar.

How do I deal with enemies?

Use your raygun to zap aggressive enemies. Some can be stunned or avoided. Raygun ammo is limited, so conserve it wisely.

Can I play this game with a controller?

On desktop, keyboard is recommended. Some controllers may be supported depending on your emulator setup.

How do I complete a level?

Navigate to the exit door while avoiding or defeating enemies and collecting keycards where needed to proceed.

Is there a story connecting all episodes?

Yes! Episode 1 has you stranded on Mars. In Episode 2, the Vorticons prepare to destroy Earth using orbital weapons. Episode 3 sees you invading their home base to stop them for good.

Is Commander Keen hard?

The game balances platforming and combat. Early levels are beginner-friendly, but later stages ramp up the challenge with tougher enemies and puzzles.

Can I save my game?

Yes! You can save your game at any time through the in-game menu, which is crucial for progressing through the trilogy.

Is Commander Keen kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The game was designed for all ages and features cartoony graphics and a whimsical tone, despite the alien threats.

Game Fodder

Manuals

• Commander Keen in Invasion of the Vorticons game manual