[3] At the Historical Tactical Center, the military, with the help of a private corporation, has created a computer capable of simulating any form of combat from any point in history.

However, a programmer from a rival corporation infects the system with a "Predator Virus" that creates a time-distortion vortex, which threatens to swallow the world if it is not destroyed.

This bar can be emptied by depositing computer chips collected throughout the levels in various "orb pools," which resemble the vortex Stanley first entered.

[7] GameSpot also mentioned problems with the controls and animation but were otherwise more positive, summarizing that "Time Commando's stunning 3-D graphics and innovative gameplay bring action and adventure on the PlayStation to dizzying heights.

"[9] Atomic Dawg of GamePro actually praised the controls, but agreed that "the overall visual impact is diminished by pokey, lame-looking basic moves."