16-Bit Xmas 2011 (Rating: 7/10)
I honestly couldn't wait for this game when it was put onto the RetroZone website for purchase. Finally! A new game for my first ever video game console! And with flashy Christmas lights on the cartridge and a neat little Christmas card to boot! The game certainly had quality.
The gameplay is simple: You must gather up all of the presents onscreen while avoiding alien spaceships. You can also throw snowballs at the aliens to stun them for a bit. The platforming is satisfying and the game looks amazing. The music is hardly anything complex, but kinda catchy.
If there's any reason why I docked off points here, it's because of the length. For a game I paid $45 for, I expect more than just 15 levels. Yet, I still can't help but like this game. It's really fun to play on a short burst of time, or if you're looking for a quick/casual game to play.
The gameplay is simple: You must gather up all of the presents onscreen while avoiding alien spaceships. You can also throw snowballs at the aliens to stun them for a bit. The platforming is satisfying and the game looks amazing. The music is hardly anything complex, but kinda catchy.
If there's any reason why I docked off points here, it's because of the length. For a game I paid $45 for, I expect more than just 15 levels. Yet, I still can't help but like this game. It's really fun to play on a short burst of time, or if you're looking for a quick/casual game to play.
16-Bit Xmas 2012 (Rating: 3/10)
How lazy...Instead of being a new game like 16-Bit Xmas 2011, this is a simple port of 8-Bit Xmas 2009.
Despite the quality of the cartridge (including its awesome Christmas lights), 16-Bit Xmas 2012 is a REALLY miserable game. First off, the game can only be played via multiplayer, and I'm pretty sure you can't get other friends to play this ugly mess. Not only is it terrible in the graphics and sound departments, but the gameplay feels very broken.
You guys shoot what are supposed to be snowballs at each other, but you must press A or B for the direction you want to throw it, and the only way they can hit anyone is if they bounce off the side of the screen (Um....what?) and into the player. The result sucks, and I don't even recommend playing it online......But in case if you're curious.........ugh..
Despite the quality of the cartridge (including its awesome Christmas lights), 16-Bit Xmas 2012 is a REALLY miserable game. First off, the game can only be played via multiplayer, and I'm pretty sure you can't get other friends to play this ugly mess. Not only is it terrible in the graphics and sound departments, but the gameplay feels very broken.
You guys shoot what are supposed to be snowballs at each other, but you must press A or B for the direction you want to throw it, and the only way they can hit anyone is if they bounce off the side of the screen (Um....what?) and into the player. The result sucks, and I don't even recommend playing it online......But in case if you're curious.........ugh..
Animaniacs (Rating: 9/10)
Why is Animaniacs not on TV anymore? Why don't big-name game companies make licensed titles anymore? We may not be able to answer these questions, but as long as we've got these excellent licensed 1990s games, then we may as well be happy.
I remembered watching the Animaniacs movie, Wakko's Wish, a really long time ago...After I re-watched it again just recently, I went on to watch several episodes of the show, thus making me become an Animaniacs fan very quickly. So when I saw that there was a game for 90s consoles (Sega Genesis, SNES, Game Boy), I had to go and get the SNES version! That is, after watching 30 seconds of gameplay.
Once booting it up, the game already seems promising. The title screen, Konami logo, etc, all has rich detail and the title's music is no disappointment. Then, once pressing Start, you get to see an awesomely funny intro cutscene! The scene shows Pinky and the Brain steal a movie script from Warner Bros. studios. What do ya know? Humor's easily shown! And then there's the Warners themselves making their appearances. They are told about the evil plot going on, and that the message will self-destruct in 1 second (Ha!).
When playing the actual game, it's styled like a beat 'em up, but you don't actually beat..up anybody, although you can bounce on enemies' heads. Although the gameplay's very simple, it makes for exciting action! And on top of that, the graphics and sound are detailed, colorful, and amazing to look at. Plus, believe it or not, there's actually some slapstick funniness like in the show! For example, when encountering Dr. Scratch 'n Sniff, he jumps out of the window! And when venturing through the Adventure level, you'd knock over Buttons (the dog in the show that always ends up in harsh situations)!
The game doesn't totally consist of running and jumping, though. There are segments that feature mine-cart riding, auto-scrolling, chase scenes, and more, of course. The segments really help add to the already fun gameplay, making the overall game even more fun (Although sorta frustrating, but see below).
But as wonderful as the game is, it can be INCREDIBLY hard, due to you being able to die within one hit. Like many Konami games (Contra, I'm looking at you), Animaniacs consists of extreme difficulty. Thankfully, there's a slot machine gimmick that helps out very much. You see, coins are scattered throughout the levels. When collecting them, the slot machine is activated. If there's 3 panels of a certain character (Skippy, Chicken Boo, Hello Nurse, etc), then you receive a continue (Only for one of the Warners, though). If the panels range from Yakko, Wakko, and Dot, respectively, then you get to bring them back (In case if you died as one or two of them)!
So...yeah. This game is great! Even if it IS hard, you can get through this via trial-and-error. Either way, I bet Super NES players will have a very fun time with this licensed gem.
I remembered watching the Animaniacs movie, Wakko's Wish, a really long time ago...After I re-watched it again just recently, I went on to watch several episodes of the show, thus making me become an Animaniacs fan very quickly. So when I saw that there was a game for 90s consoles (Sega Genesis, SNES, Game Boy), I had to go and get the SNES version! That is, after watching 30 seconds of gameplay.
Once booting it up, the game already seems promising. The title screen, Konami logo, etc, all has rich detail and the title's music is no disappointment. Then, once pressing Start, you get to see an awesomely funny intro cutscene! The scene shows Pinky and the Brain steal a movie script from Warner Bros. studios. What do ya know? Humor's easily shown! And then there's the Warners themselves making their appearances. They are told about the evil plot going on, and that the message will self-destruct in 1 second (Ha!).
When playing the actual game, it's styled like a beat 'em up, but you don't actually beat..up anybody, although you can bounce on enemies' heads. Although the gameplay's very simple, it makes for exciting action! And on top of that, the graphics and sound are detailed, colorful, and amazing to look at. Plus, believe it or not, there's actually some slapstick funniness like in the show! For example, when encountering Dr. Scratch 'n Sniff, he jumps out of the window! And when venturing through the Adventure level, you'd knock over Buttons (the dog in the show that always ends up in harsh situations)!
The game doesn't totally consist of running and jumping, though. There are segments that feature mine-cart riding, auto-scrolling, chase scenes, and more, of course. The segments really help add to the already fun gameplay, making the overall game even more fun (Although sorta frustrating, but see below).
But as wonderful as the game is, it can be INCREDIBLY hard, due to you being able to die within one hit. Like many Konami games (Contra, I'm looking at you), Animaniacs consists of extreme difficulty. Thankfully, there's a slot machine gimmick that helps out very much. You see, coins are scattered throughout the levels. When collecting them, the slot machine is activated. If there's 3 panels of a certain character (Skippy, Chicken Boo, Hello Nurse, etc), then you receive a continue (Only for one of the Warners, though). If the panels range from Yakko, Wakko, and Dot, respectively, then you get to bring them back (In case if you died as one or two of them)!
So...yeah. This game is great! Even if it IS hard, you can get through this via trial-and-error. Either way, I bet Super NES players will have a very fun time with this licensed gem.
Captain Commando (Rating: 9/10)
You know, ever since Final Fight arrived to arcades and home consoles, there have been lots and lots of games trying to imitate its gameplay ever since. This is one of those games that succeeded with that kind of gameplay, mainly because, well, it's by Capcom, the same company that made Final Fight in the first place.
Like a Capcom beat 'em up should, the game contains 2-Player co-op, great gameplay that involves intense button-mashing, and incredible graphics and sound. Unlike Final Fight, though, Captain Commando has a more reasonable difficulty. You could probably make it above level 5 on your first try (Especially if you're a fan of this genre).
Unfortunately, the game is clearly overpriced on Amazon (Almost 50 bucks? What?!). If you can find the game at a store or something, DEFINITELY buy this.
Like a Capcom beat 'em up should, the game contains 2-Player co-op, great gameplay that involves intense button-mashing, and incredible graphics and sound. Unlike Final Fight, though, Captain Commando has a more reasonable difficulty. You could probably make it above level 5 on your first try (Especially if you're a fan of this genre).
Unfortunately, the game is clearly overpriced on Amazon (Almost 50 bucks? What?!). If you can find the game at a store or something, DEFINITELY buy this.
Donkey Kong Country (Rating: 10/10)
In a world where there were CDs, companies like Sega and 3DO had tried to capitalize on the concept of playing video games on a CD, giving the games enhanced graphics and sound. There is one company, however, named Nintendo, and it created Donkey Kong Country. Donkey Kong Country was a game that proved that you don't need CD-based technology to make games with flashy graphics. You just need to put in effort to fit it to your console.
DKC's graphics were incredible on the Super Nintendo. The game almost looked like the characters came from a CGI movie. At least, at its time. Even the backgrounds had tons of details and neat movements.
The sounds and music were memorable. Even when you defeat a Kremling (alligator enemy), his voice effect when he dies will always be remembered for a long time. As for the music, well, you can never go wrong with the sweet beats of Kongo Jungle and the King K. Rool boss battle.
The game is one of those games that show the characters on a map before actually going into the levels. Once you go to a level, you're gonna be expecting barrel-blasting, Kremling-smashing, animal-romping fun! There is a lot to do in Donkey Kong Country. As a platformer, it doesn't disappoint with its gameplay. You can even ride atop an Animal Buddy, like a rhino or an ostrich. Rhinos can knock everybody out of its way, while the Ostrich guides you safely across the level. It can also float in the air like Racoon Mario in Super Mario Bros 3. The entire game is a bunch of fun.
The multiplayer is pretty cool, too. While you can't REALLY play co-op like in the new DKC game that's out on Wii, your friend can cover in for you if you die. One player plays as Donkey Kong, and the other plays as Diddy Kong. Once one player is participating in the action, the other player can't really do anything. But if that one player dies or presses Select, then it's time for the second player to play. You can also compete against each other.
To save, you must reach Candy's Save Point. Personally, I wish they added a save anytime kind of feature. But that is a minor complaint.
Overall, this is a really great Super NES gem. It's worth the money. Even if you don't have a Super Nintendo, it's also out for Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Color. Oh, and Wii Virtual Console too....
DKC's graphics were incredible on the Super Nintendo. The game almost looked like the characters came from a CGI movie. At least, at its time. Even the backgrounds had tons of details and neat movements.
The sounds and music were memorable. Even when you defeat a Kremling (alligator enemy), his voice effect when he dies will always be remembered for a long time. As for the music, well, you can never go wrong with the sweet beats of Kongo Jungle and the King K. Rool boss battle.
The game is one of those games that show the characters on a map before actually going into the levels. Once you go to a level, you're gonna be expecting barrel-blasting, Kremling-smashing, animal-romping fun! There is a lot to do in Donkey Kong Country. As a platformer, it doesn't disappoint with its gameplay. You can even ride atop an Animal Buddy, like a rhino or an ostrich. Rhinos can knock everybody out of its way, while the Ostrich guides you safely across the level. It can also float in the air like Racoon Mario in Super Mario Bros 3. The entire game is a bunch of fun.
The multiplayer is pretty cool, too. While you can't REALLY play co-op like in the new DKC game that's out on Wii, your friend can cover in for you if you die. One player plays as Donkey Kong, and the other plays as Diddy Kong. Once one player is participating in the action, the other player can't really do anything. But if that one player dies or presses Select, then it's time for the second player to play. You can also compete against each other.
To save, you must reach Candy's Save Point. Personally, I wish they added a save anytime kind of feature. But that is a minor complaint.
Overall, this is a really great Super NES gem. It's worth the money. Even if you don't have a Super Nintendo, it's also out for Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Color. Oh, and Wii Virtual Console too....
Frogger (Rating: 5/10)
When you think of the arcade, what's one game that can possibly come to mind? Frogger, right? Remember its addicting traffic-dodging gameplay? Its memorable tunes? It's retro graphics? How about its charm in general? Well, this Super Nintendo version has only half of what I asked to remember.
It has the same addicting traffic-dodging gameplay that put Konami/Sega (Though Konami won in a legal battle) on the map and, while it doesn't have the same graphics as the original, it provides its own colorful graphics. You would think that it would probably be better than the original, but no.
What sucks about this version is that it doesn't have the catchy music from the original. In fact, it doesn't have ANY music. Just wonky sound effects. Also, since the game has been revamped with updated graphics, the wonky sound effects, and no music, it just loses the charm that struck me as I played the arcade game.
It has the same addicting traffic-dodging gameplay that put Konami/Sega (Though Konami won in a legal battle) on the map and, while it doesn't have the same graphics as the original, it provides its own colorful graphics. You would think that it would probably be better than the original, but no.
What sucks about this version is that it doesn't have the catchy music from the original. In fact, it doesn't have ANY music. Just wonky sound effects. Also, since the game has been revamped with updated graphics, the wonky sound effects, and no music, it just loses the charm that struck me as I played the arcade game.
Kirby's Avalanche (Rating: 8/10)
Kirby's Avalanche is actually a puzzle game rather than your average platformer. It's actually based off of the Japanese video game puzzle series, Puyo Puyo. In fact, it's just like that, but covered in a Kirby theme.
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine also did this exact same thing, but with a Sonic theme instead.
The main game is connecting 3 of the same color. It's as simple and addicting as Tetris and Columns. There's a VS mode, a Training mode (Which is like playing solo in Tetris), and a Story mode. All of the modes are very fun and you can just keep playing them until you're dead tired of puzzle games.
The puzzling gameplay is pretty addicting, and it is still a fun game to this day.
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine also did this exact same thing, but with a Sonic theme instead.
The main game is connecting 3 of the same color. It's as simple and addicting as Tetris and Columns. There's a VS mode, a Training mode (Which is like playing solo in Tetris), and a Story mode. All of the modes are very fun and you can just keep playing them until you're dead tired of puzzle games.
The puzzling gameplay is pretty addicting, and it is still a fun game to this day.
Kirby's Dream Land 3 (Rating: 8/10)
It's kinda odd. The Kirby's Dream Land series has always been on the Game Boy, but then its third game, released in 1997, is on Super Nintendo. I wouldn't say that's a good decision, since the Nintendo 64 was already out by then. But those that still held onto their Super NES systems were in for a good time.
If you've played the previous Dream Land games or Kirby's Adventure, you would know what to expect here: Fun platforming combined with being able to steal enemies' powers. What's also cool is that now you can play with a friend or computer player to help you out. It's like the multiplayer elements in New Super Mario Bros. Wii, and Kirby's Return to Dream Land, but way, way earlier, and plus it has a CPU play with you, too.
What stops this game from getting 5 stars, though, is that it has a lack of challenge. Whatever IS challenging at first is then easy as you could understand it within a matter of time. The game has been rather a cakewalk almost throughout the game. But in this case, the walk is a great one, and the cake is tasty.
If you've played the previous Dream Land games or Kirby's Adventure, you would know what to expect here: Fun platforming combined with being able to steal enemies' powers. What's also cool is that now you can play with a friend or computer player to help you out. It's like the multiplayer elements in New Super Mario Bros. Wii, and Kirby's Return to Dream Land, but way, way earlier, and plus it has a CPU play with you, too.
What stops this game from getting 5 stars, though, is that it has a lack of challenge. Whatever IS challenging at first is then easy as you could understand it within a matter of time. The game has been rather a cakewalk almost throughout the game. But in this case, the walk is a great one, and the cake is tasty.
Mario's Time Machine (Rating: 4/10)
Mario's Time Machine wasn't a really perfect game on the NES, but it provided us with classic Mario gameplay in a twist in which it tries to help teach us about history. It has dumb moments, but it's at least decent. The Super Nintendo version, on the other hand, strips away the classic Mario gameplay aspect.
Instead of having to fight Koopas in a Mario Bros stage, you pick an artifact (that you must return to the time period) right away. But as the time machine comes down, you don't choose a time period like in the NES version. Instead, you ENTER THE DIGITS YOURSELF, with BC and AD required. What were they thinking??
After you choose your period, you go surfing, which had to replace the Koopa scene. The surfing thing is even less winnable or playable than the Koopa scene, though. You have to collect mushrooms and dodge urchins, right? Sounds simple, doesn't it? Well, no. You can almost rarely tell the difference between the two.
After that, you finally reach your destination. So do you go around kicking off Koopas and returning the artifact? Nope. Instead, you have to go talk to people and fill out blanks in sentences. You actually HAVE to be taught this stuff to know which word goes in the right blanks. It is annoying.
Why should there be a Mario game with FILLING OUT BLANKS and TALKING TO PEOPLE FROM THE PAST? Why not feature the Koopa bashing that Mario was known for in his sidescrollers?
Overall, this game is only for people whose brains are meant to know only history. For those who want an educational game with traditional Mario action, go play the NES version.
Instead of having to fight Koopas in a Mario Bros stage, you pick an artifact (that you must return to the time period) right away. But as the time machine comes down, you don't choose a time period like in the NES version. Instead, you ENTER THE DIGITS YOURSELF, with BC and AD required. What were they thinking??
After you choose your period, you go surfing, which had to replace the Koopa scene. The surfing thing is even less winnable or playable than the Koopa scene, though. You have to collect mushrooms and dodge urchins, right? Sounds simple, doesn't it? Well, no. You can almost rarely tell the difference between the two.
After that, you finally reach your destination. So do you go around kicking off Koopas and returning the artifact? Nope. Instead, you have to go talk to people and fill out blanks in sentences. You actually HAVE to be taught this stuff to know which word goes in the right blanks. It is annoying.
Why should there be a Mario game with FILLING OUT BLANKS and TALKING TO PEOPLE FROM THE PAST? Why not feature the Koopa bashing that Mario was known for in his sidescrollers?
Overall, this game is only for people whose brains are meant to know only history. For those who want an educational game with traditional Mario action, go play the NES version.
Mickey Mania (Rating: 8/10)
Mickey Mania was one of the last games Sony had created before the company went on to make the Playstation. The music and sounds have a higher quality than the Genesis version, but there are loading times in between levels.
The first level takes you to the iconic Steamboat Willie cartoon. However, if you think that the first level is supposed to be simple, think again. There are numerous obstacles that are most likely to hurt you. If you get hit, you are only invincible for half a second. What makes the gameplay become fun is when you start collecting these spheres and then later throw them at enemies. You soon encounter ol' timey Pete, but he actually isn't the boss. Hit him 4 times and use him as a spring to bounce over a pile of crates. The REAL first boss is the machinery. You must destroy 4 gears by hitting them 5 times (3 times for the top ones) The boss, at first, plays incredibly hard, since the crates drop bombs on you. However, you don't find out til later to figure out that you can just jump to avoid getting blown up. After the boss, Mickey appears with Steamboat Willie. Then the text says "Congratulations! Mickey has rescued Steamboat Willie!" What? He was kidnapped?
The second level is, one of my favorites, The Mad Doctor. Right when you encounter a skeleton, things get hard. When the skeletons get destroyed, their bones fly up and fall down, but you actually had to avoid colliding with them. There are several portions of this level. After the first part, the second part contains rope swinging over lava. The third has you ride a runaway mine cart, but you must jump over the incoming spike balls. There's also this part where you must perform chemistry. The downside here is that if you push it to the stool without the 3 layers you have to put in, the only decision is to kill yourself. The Mad Doctor doesn't seem like a very hard boss until you attack. If hit, he throws full flasks all over the place.
The third level is Moose Hunters. If you don't follow Pluto on this one, you're dead. Countless tree branches and boulders would fall on you. Moose would also gallop towards you at certain times. After beating the first part, things get easier, yet awkward. You now have to run away from a moose in a beautifully stupid fake 3D level.
The Lonesome Ghosts is your fourth level. Going up certain staircases would make them turn into a ramp. There are tilting platforms that you must tilt in the right direction to go on. The second part is annoying. You have to balance on a barrel while the house is being flooded. As you make your way towards left, the third barrel would sink, but if you get closer to the left, the water stops. That's the annoying part: The water. If you jump in, you lose your life automatically basically.
Mickey and the Beanstalk is graphically colorful. There's not a lot of hard stuff in here. Although I must admit the dragonflies are annoying. When you get to the first huge enemy, you'd think it'd be a boss since boss music is playing, but no. You must hop on a ladybug. The ladybug speeds away from the "boss" extremely. Once you reach the giant's house, there's a plate with Jello on it. You have to push it towards the wall, but you probably won't know it at first, since it's a big object to push.
Now...the Prince and the Pauper....it's the hardest and final level of the game. You swing, you kill, all that stuff. Unfortunately, I can't explain anymore since you must find about this on your own. Good luck.
Overall, if you are a die-hard fan of platform games, Mickey Mouse, or you just want a major challenge, go ahead and buy this game.
The first level takes you to the iconic Steamboat Willie cartoon. However, if you think that the first level is supposed to be simple, think again. There are numerous obstacles that are most likely to hurt you. If you get hit, you are only invincible for half a second. What makes the gameplay become fun is when you start collecting these spheres and then later throw them at enemies. You soon encounter ol' timey Pete, but he actually isn't the boss. Hit him 4 times and use him as a spring to bounce over a pile of crates. The REAL first boss is the machinery. You must destroy 4 gears by hitting them 5 times (3 times for the top ones) The boss, at first, plays incredibly hard, since the crates drop bombs on you. However, you don't find out til later to figure out that you can just jump to avoid getting blown up. After the boss, Mickey appears with Steamboat Willie. Then the text says "Congratulations! Mickey has rescued Steamboat Willie!" What? He was kidnapped?
The second level is, one of my favorites, The Mad Doctor. Right when you encounter a skeleton, things get hard. When the skeletons get destroyed, their bones fly up and fall down, but you actually had to avoid colliding with them. There are several portions of this level. After the first part, the second part contains rope swinging over lava. The third has you ride a runaway mine cart, but you must jump over the incoming spike balls. There's also this part where you must perform chemistry. The downside here is that if you push it to the stool without the 3 layers you have to put in, the only decision is to kill yourself. The Mad Doctor doesn't seem like a very hard boss until you attack. If hit, he throws full flasks all over the place.
The third level is Moose Hunters. If you don't follow Pluto on this one, you're dead. Countless tree branches and boulders would fall on you. Moose would also gallop towards you at certain times. After beating the first part, things get easier, yet awkward. You now have to run away from a moose in a beautifully stupid fake 3D level.
The Lonesome Ghosts is your fourth level. Going up certain staircases would make them turn into a ramp. There are tilting platforms that you must tilt in the right direction to go on. The second part is annoying. You have to balance on a barrel while the house is being flooded. As you make your way towards left, the third barrel would sink, but if you get closer to the left, the water stops. That's the annoying part: The water. If you jump in, you lose your life automatically basically.
Mickey and the Beanstalk is graphically colorful. There's not a lot of hard stuff in here. Although I must admit the dragonflies are annoying. When you get to the first huge enemy, you'd think it'd be a boss since boss music is playing, but no. You must hop on a ladybug. The ladybug speeds away from the "boss" extremely. Once you reach the giant's house, there's a plate with Jello on it. You have to push it towards the wall, but you probably won't know it at first, since it's a big object to push.
Now...the Prince and the Pauper....it's the hardest and final level of the game. You swing, you kill, all that stuff. Unfortunately, I can't explain anymore since you must find about this on your own. Good luck.
Overall, if you are a die-hard fan of platform games, Mickey Mouse, or you just want a major challenge, go ahead and buy this game.
Mortal Kombat (Rating: 9/10)
To rival Street Fighter II and its success, this game comes out and starts up a huge controversial topic about violence in video games. When it was ported to consoles, several versions didn't have the gore. The Super Nintendo game was one of them. WHAT?! You dare criticize an awesome fighting game just because there wasn't blood?! What greed.
The gameplay is pure one-on-one fighting. You can choose from a number of fighters (I choose Sub-Zero), and then you battle onward from fighter to fighter. Eventually, you'll get to the Endurance rounds, which let you face against the defeated fighters, but you must face 2 under one go. That is what makes the game stand out.
The graphics are as great and faithful to the original arcade version's.
I can say the same for the sound and music quality.
Overall, it's a really good fighting game that shouldn't be ignored. Even without the blood.
The gameplay is pure one-on-one fighting. You can choose from a number of fighters (I choose Sub-Zero), and then you battle onward from fighter to fighter. Eventually, you'll get to the Endurance rounds, which let you face against the defeated fighters, but you must face 2 under one go. That is what makes the game stand out.
The graphics are as great and faithful to the original arcade version's.
I can say the same for the sound and music quality.
Overall, it's a really good fighting game that shouldn't be ignored. Even without the blood.
Ms. Pac-Man (Rating: 10/10)
You'd probably mistake this as just another regular cartridge port of Ms. Pac-Man, but if you did, then you couldn't be more wrong.
The sounds are taken straight from the arcade game.
The graphics are actually made more detailed than how the arcade game's graphics are.
Now, for the gameplay, there's a lot to talk about. Right after the title screen, there's tons of options to choose from:
-Players: 1, 2 (Co-op), 2 (Competitive), 2 (Alternative)
-Difficulty: Easy, Normal, Hard, Crazy
-Pac-Booster: On, off (I ALWAYS choose On for this one. What can beat fast Ms. Pac-Man?)
-Maze Selection (My favorite option): Arcade, Mini, Big, Strange
You can alter the game with all of those options! The main gameplay is pure Ms. Pac-Man awesomeness.
You can't beat that!
Unfortunately, this game has been overlooked due to the fact that this version was released the same year as the Nintendo 64.
The sounds are taken straight from the arcade game.
The graphics are actually made more detailed than how the arcade game's graphics are.
Now, for the gameplay, there's a lot to talk about. Right after the title screen, there's tons of options to choose from:
-Players: 1, 2 (Co-op), 2 (Competitive), 2 (Alternative)
-Difficulty: Easy, Normal, Hard, Crazy
-Pac-Booster: On, off (I ALWAYS choose On for this one. What can beat fast Ms. Pac-Man?)
-Maze Selection (My favorite option): Arcade, Mini, Big, Strange
You can alter the game with all of those options! The main gameplay is pure Ms. Pac-Man awesomeness.
You can't beat that!
Unfortunately, this game has been overlooked due to the fact that this version was released the same year as the Nintendo 64.
Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures (Rating: 8/10)
Pac-Man is a really awesome arcade game. It's so addicting! You just eat dots while roaming around in a maze while avoiding ghosts. And then you could use a special dot in which the ghosts become edible. This, my friends, was timeless action the Namco loves going back to over and over again. Not in 1994, though, in which they release Pac-Man 2. Look at that cover art...I don't think this is maze game. I have a theory as to why this "interactive cartoon" has the Pac-Man 2 name. There was a Pac-Man cartoon show in the 80s. I can only assume this is a sequel to that. Since a new Pac-Man show is being made and set for next year, why not review Namco's attempt at doing something like that in a video game?
Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures has you help Pac-Man on his journey. That's right. YOU'RE a part of his ventures. Anyway, the game is composed of various objectives Pac-Man has to accomplish. He roams around all kinds of places such as a farm, a warehouse, a mountain, and much more. The trick here is that the player has to be pretty observant and aware of what's going on around the scenery.
The player uses a slingshot to shoot at stuff to get Pac-Man to notice them (You can also convince Pac-Man to look in a certain direction). It's like a shooting gallery crossed with an adventure game. However, since this is classified as an "interactive cartoon", there were definitely some bizarre reactions to what you shoot. For example, if you shoot a guy at a Hot Dog stand, he squirts ketchup onto Pac-Man in anger. Sometimes, the slingshot could be used to help Pac-Man find ways to progress (EX: A rope for him to climb, or shooting away a rock on a hill so Pac-Man doesn't trip over it). Or you can even shoot Pac-Man himself when he's about to meet his fate, so he could jump away (or you could just shoot him to anger him).
The slingshot could also be used for slinging Power Pellets in case of any ghosts lurking around. However, here's one major flaw with that - The only place I recall where you get Power Pellets is Pac-Man's house. And you only get to use 3 before running out. If Pac-Man needs a Power Pellet and ghosts are scaring him, this will go on for a LONG time before the ghosts finally fly away.
What really influences the game other than the slingshot is Pac-Man's mood. This is interestingly an important part of the game, because how he acts toward some things rely on his behavior. Some instances require him to be angry or happy, and some cause him to change his mood to such things.
The formula overall is very, VERY unique and makes the game really interesting. Namco did a great job with the making of this game. Unfortunately, there are two problems: The lack of places to get Power Pellets AND the lack of an actual save feature. Yeah....you have to use passwords, so you better write em down..
But other than those problems, the game is great.
As for the game being an interactive cartoon, it really nails that. The game has a great sense of humor (EX: In the park, Pac-Man trips on rock, and slips on a skateboard, causing that skateboard to fly up in the air and land straight onto his head - There's also a billboard in the city that shows an anime person holding a hamburger. Pac-Man smiles as a laughable reaction to the billboard). Many things you shoot with the slingshot can cause a gut-buster.
Actually, it seems like if you don't want to play through the main game, you could just have Pac-Man wander off and create your own little cartoon venture. Go ahead. Have Pac-Man brawl with a cat that stole his hot dog. Have a farmer's haystack fall flat onto him. Do whatever.
If you're not interested in the actual game, Pac-Man 2 still has some value for you. If you go to the city's arcade, you'll find a fully playable Pac-Man arcade cabinet & Ms. Pac-Man. Or, if you want to avoid the game altogether, and go straight into the original Pac-Man or Ms. Pac-Man, you can enter these passwords:
Pac-Man: PCMNDPW
Ms. Pac-Man: MSPCMND
Pac-Man is that timeless classic we all know and love. Eat the dots, avoid ghosts, you know....all good stuff. Considering Pac-Man 2's price right now for a used copy, you could just buy this game right now just for the classic Pac-Man alone.
Fortunately for you arcade Pac lovers out there, there's also Ms. Pac-Man in the mix. However, considering Ms. Pac-Man was eventually re-released for the SNES, with bunches of new features that made the game a bigger blast than the arcade original, it takes some of the fun out of this port, which doesn't have any of those features. You just simply play as is. Ms. Pac-Man is still a fun game on here, but I'd rather recommend getting the standalone SNES version, which makes one of the greatest games of all time that much better.
All in all, Pac-Man 2 is a should-have. If you're a cartoon fanatic, you should pick this up right away. If you are looking for an unexpected challenge, the game certainly has that. If you are a Pac-Man fan, and wish for arcade-style action, Pac-Man 2 still offers the arcade classic and Ms. Pac-Man to satisfy your needs. There's something for everyone here!
Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures has you help Pac-Man on his journey. That's right. YOU'RE a part of his ventures. Anyway, the game is composed of various objectives Pac-Man has to accomplish. He roams around all kinds of places such as a farm, a warehouse, a mountain, and much more. The trick here is that the player has to be pretty observant and aware of what's going on around the scenery.
The player uses a slingshot to shoot at stuff to get Pac-Man to notice them (You can also convince Pac-Man to look in a certain direction). It's like a shooting gallery crossed with an adventure game. However, since this is classified as an "interactive cartoon", there were definitely some bizarre reactions to what you shoot. For example, if you shoot a guy at a Hot Dog stand, he squirts ketchup onto Pac-Man in anger. Sometimes, the slingshot could be used to help Pac-Man find ways to progress (EX: A rope for him to climb, or shooting away a rock on a hill so Pac-Man doesn't trip over it). Or you can even shoot Pac-Man himself when he's about to meet his fate, so he could jump away (or you could just shoot him to anger him).
The slingshot could also be used for slinging Power Pellets in case of any ghosts lurking around. However, here's one major flaw with that - The only place I recall where you get Power Pellets is Pac-Man's house. And you only get to use 3 before running out. If Pac-Man needs a Power Pellet and ghosts are scaring him, this will go on for a LONG time before the ghosts finally fly away.
What really influences the game other than the slingshot is Pac-Man's mood. This is interestingly an important part of the game, because how he acts toward some things rely on his behavior. Some instances require him to be angry or happy, and some cause him to change his mood to such things.
The formula overall is very, VERY unique and makes the game really interesting. Namco did a great job with the making of this game. Unfortunately, there are two problems: The lack of places to get Power Pellets AND the lack of an actual save feature. Yeah....you have to use passwords, so you better write em down..
But other than those problems, the game is great.
As for the game being an interactive cartoon, it really nails that. The game has a great sense of humor (EX: In the park, Pac-Man trips on rock, and slips on a skateboard, causing that skateboard to fly up in the air and land straight onto his head - There's also a billboard in the city that shows an anime person holding a hamburger. Pac-Man smiles as a laughable reaction to the billboard). Many things you shoot with the slingshot can cause a gut-buster.
Actually, it seems like if you don't want to play through the main game, you could just have Pac-Man wander off and create your own little cartoon venture. Go ahead. Have Pac-Man brawl with a cat that stole his hot dog. Have a farmer's haystack fall flat onto him. Do whatever.
If you're not interested in the actual game, Pac-Man 2 still has some value for you. If you go to the city's arcade, you'll find a fully playable Pac-Man arcade cabinet & Ms. Pac-Man. Or, if you want to avoid the game altogether, and go straight into the original Pac-Man or Ms. Pac-Man, you can enter these passwords:
Pac-Man: PCMNDPW
Ms. Pac-Man: MSPCMND
Pac-Man is that timeless classic we all know and love. Eat the dots, avoid ghosts, you know....all good stuff. Considering Pac-Man 2's price right now for a used copy, you could just buy this game right now just for the classic Pac-Man alone.
Fortunately for you arcade Pac lovers out there, there's also Ms. Pac-Man in the mix. However, considering Ms. Pac-Man was eventually re-released for the SNES, with bunches of new features that made the game a bigger blast than the arcade original, it takes some of the fun out of this port, which doesn't have any of those features. You just simply play as is. Ms. Pac-Man is still a fun game on here, but I'd rather recommend getting the standalone SNES version, which makes one of the greatest games of all time that much better.
All in all, Pac-Man 2 is a should-have. If you're a cartoon fanatic, you should pick this up right away. If you are looking for an unexpected challenge, the game certainly has that. If you are a Pac-Man fan, and wish for arcade-style action, Pac-Man 2 still offers the arcade classic and Ms. Pac-Man to satisfy your needs. There's something for everyone here!
Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure (Rating: 10/10)
Remember how revolutionary PItfall was back in 1982? Well, even if you don't remember, let alone live in the times, Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure is a great action game that may please certain fans, depending on whether they were looking for something faithful or not.
You play as Pitfall Harry Jr., who sets out to look for his dad through ancient buildings and jungles. This isn't any Pitfall game, though. It is an action game with throwing small objects (rocks?) and bombs, and whipping your foes as you go find an exit that leads to the next level. This calls for awesome battles with bosses and a solid platforming experience.
The first level has you go through a jungle. The enemies here are just animals that you may normally see. You can bounce on spider webs like a trampoline, and you can also swing on vines (like original Pitfall). The boss is a tiger, but it can't be killed easily. You gotta throw some bombs and shoot at it. What's annoying here is how you must jump over its pattern as it dashes across the screen. If you jump too early or late, you'd be knocked down on the ground (Not saying you'd lose all your health that fast).
That's one thing to think about this game. There are parts where some things can be difficult to jump over, such as that one giant boulder in a later pyramid level. You have to jump straight over it. There are also some things that you must figure out by toying around with the nearest buttons and switches you find.
In the third level, there is a hidden area where you can play the original Pitfall game that was originally released on the Atari 2600! This really adds great appeal to nostalgia fans. The game is emulated perfectly, without any flaws or glitches whatsoever. However, when you get a Game Over, the game takes you back to the room where you found the portal that lets you play it.
The graphics in the game are thoroughly detailed and nice. The sounds and music are greatly composed as well.
The ending is one of the funniest video game endings ever. As you see Pitfall Harry Jr. find his dad, the game reveals that Pitfall Harry himself is the exact same as how he was in the original Atari 2600 game! Then he says "What took you so long?".
Overall, this is a classic you should buy.
You play as Pitfall Harry Jr., who sets out to look for his dad through ancient buildings and jungles. This isn't any Pitfall game, though. It is an action game with throwing small objects (rocks?) and bombs, and whipping your foes as you go find an exit that leads to the next level. This calls for awesome battles with bosses and a solid platforming experience.
The first level has you go through a jungle. The enemies here are just animals that you may normally see. You can bounce on spider webs like a trampoline, and you can also swing on vines (like original Pitfall). The boss is a tiger, but it can't be killed easily. You gotta throw some bombs and shoot at it. What's annoying here is how you must jump over its pattern as it dashes across the screen. If you jump too early or late, you'd be knocked down on the ground (Not saying you'd lose all your health that fast).
That's one thing to think about this game. There are parts where some things can be difficult to jump over, such as that one giant boulder in a later pyramid level. You have to jump straight over it. There are also some things that you must figure out by toying around with the nearest buttons and switches you find.
In the third level, there is a hidden area where you can play the original Pitfall game that was originally released on the Atari 2600! This really adds great appeal to nostalgia fans. The game is emulated perfectly, without any flaws or glitches whatsoever. However, when you get a Game Over, the game takes you back to the room where you found the portal that lets you play it.
The graphics in the game are thoroughly detailed and nice. The sounds and music are greatly composed as well.
The ending is one of the funniest video game endings ever. As you see Pitfall Harry Jr. find his dad, the game reveals that Pitfall Harry himself is the exact same as how he was in the original Atari 2600 game! Then he says "What took you so long?".
Overall, this is a classic you should buy.
Space Invaders: The Original Game (Rating: 7/10)
Space Invaders certainly is a fun arcade classic (To think it came all the way from the late 70s), and it clearly shows that through its simplistic, yet enjoyable gameplay. A 2-Player Vs Mode to see who can kill the aliens faster is a nice addition to the faithful adaptation.
But you see - The main problem that prevents this from getting 5 stars isn't the game's own fault. It's that there are so many other shooters on the Super Nintendo, let alone the other systems, that go beyond the heights of this game. I gave the Atari 2600 version of Space Invaders 5 stars due to its brand-new game modes that make the game itself more fresh and fun.
Take even the most similar games in the lot, like Galaga. It's gameplay is identical to that of Space Invaders, but it allows the player to shoot multiple missles at once, and the aliens dive toward the player's aircraft. Space Invaders has a slightly duller feel compared to Galaga.
However, if you're a Space Invaders fan, this Super Nintendo version won't disappoint, as it is just like the arcade original. Just try not to expect a major improvement.
But you see - The main problem that prevents this from getting 5 stars isn't the game's own fault. It's that there are so many other shooters on the Super Nintendo, let alone the other systems, that go beyond the heights of this game. I gave the Atari 2600 version of Space Invaders 5 stars due to its brand-new game modes that make the game itself more fresh and fun.
Take even the most similar games in the lot, like Galaga. It's gameplay is identical to that of Space Invaders, but it allows the player to shoot multiple missles at once, and the aliens dive toward the player's aircraft. Space Invaders has a slightly duller feel compared to Galaga.
However, if you're a Space Invaders fan, this Super Nintendo version won't disappoint, as it is just like the arcade original. Just try not to expect a major improvement.
Super Castlevania 4 (Rating: 10/10)
The original Castlevania was a blast, the sequel was a mediocre mess, the third was an epic return to form, but what does this fourth game in the series have to offer? Well, let's just say it combines the awesomism of both Castlevanias 1 & 3! And since the Super Nintendo is one heck of a gaming machine, you can guess how this turns out.
The classic whipping platforming action remains unharmed in this installment. In fact, it is massively improved! Along with the signature items (Cross, tomahawk, dagger, etc), you can now whip in multiple directions! Heck, you can whip it in literally ANY direction possible! Up, down, diagonal, and you can even wiggle it!
Naturally, one would think that it would make the overall experience a cakewalk then, right? WRONG! The geniuses at Konami still managed to keep the difficulty leaning over to the hard side. There are still all kinds of enemies, each with their own unique patterns. The level design is magnificent like always (You know...With the exception of the 2nd game), and keeps things rather interesting. There will even be an area or two utilizing the Super NES's Mode 7 (fake 3D) visuals for backgrounds, as well as Dracula's castle rotating as you try to avoid falling into spike pits!
On top of all this, the graphics couldn't be any better, and the soundtrack is just plain fabulous. You really owe it to yourself to play this if you're a Castlevania fan.
The classic whipping platforming action remains unharmed in this installment. In fact, it is massively improved! Along with the signature items (Cross, tomahawk, dagger, etc), you can now whip in multiple directions! Heck, you can whip it in literally ANY direction possible! Up, down, diagonal, and you can even wiggle it!
Naturally, one would think that it would make the overall experience a cakewalk then, right? WRONG! The geniuses at Konami still managed to keep the difficulty leaning over to the hard side. There are still all kinds of enemies, each with their own unique patterns. The level design is magnificent like always (You know...With the exception of the 2nd game), and keeps things rather interesting. There will even be an area or two utilizing the Super NES's Mode 7 (fake 3D) visuals for backgrounds, as well as Dracula's castle rotating as you try to avoid falling into spike pits!
On top of all this, the graphics couldn't be any better, and the soundtrack is just plain fabulous. You really owe it to yourself to play this if you're a Castlevania fan.
Super Mario All-Stars (Rating: 10/10)
How do you make an incredibly amazing game collection? Take Super Mario Bros 1-3, throw in the Lost Levels, upgrade them with newer graphics, sounds, and a couple features, and BAM! You get one of the best game collections around. If you don't feel like getting this original version online, buy Super Mario All-Stars for Wii. It's coming in December 12th, with soundtrack on a CD, a Mario history book, and the collection itself.
Super Off Road (Rating: 9/10)
Super Off Road was a curiosity to me. I had played some racing games of its nature as online flash or Shockwave games, but never have I thought there was one for the Super Nintendo. Okay, really, I hardly pay attention to this genre, but when I bought an old issue of Nintendo Power (Vol. 33 - February 1992), I saw this game in a Coming Soon section. I glanced at the screenshots, which showed off the game's AMAZING graphics. I bought the game just to see the graphics in action. Never would I think about getting a game just for the eye-popping graphics...
The gameplay is pretty simple. You maneuver your car around the tracks, encountering obstacles like ramps, water, bumps, etc. In between races, you could be able to upgrade your car buy enhancing its acceleration, adding "Shocks", buying nitros for a boost, and better tires and MPH. The shop isn't as overly complicated as it may seem, fortunately, and it all results in a simple game that ends up being very, very addicting.
The visuals are awesome, and while the kind of environment the races are set in does't change, the variety sure does, so you would't, of course, be bored of racing in the same exact track over and over. However, there are a couple instances where you do play the same track that you've played before, eventually. Fortunately, it's not that big of a problem, considering how top-notch everything else is.
The only problem I have with the game is that the goal isn't terribly clear. Not that it isn't playable, but it seems like there's not really a sense in progression. I guess, according to some websites, you have to have the greatest amount of money possible by the end of a season, but I never seem to play long enough to get it to actually occur...And I was playing for a while.
UPDATE: The game ends at a whopping 99 races!
But overall, this is certainly one gem to have if you love arcade classics or any kind of racer.
The gameplay is pretty simple. You maneuver your car around the tracks, encountering obstacles like ramps, water, bumps, etc. In between races, you could be able to upgrade your car buy enhancing its acceleration, adding "Shocks", buying nitros for a boost, and better tires and MPH. The shop isn't as overly complicated as it may seem, fortunately, and it all results in a simple game that ends up being very, very addicting.
The visuals are awesome, and while the kind of environment the races are set in does't change, the variety sure does, so you would't, of course, be bored of racing in the same exact track over and over. However, there are a couple instances where you do play the same track that you've played before, eventually. Fortunately, it's not that big of a problem, considering how top-notch everything else is.
The only problem I have with the game is that the goal isn't terribly clear. Not that it isn't playable, but it seems like there's not really a sense in progression. I guess, according to some websites, you have to have the greatest amount of money possible by the end of a season, but I never seem to play long enough to get it to actually occur...And I was playing for a while.
UPDATE: The game ends at a whopping 99 races!
But overall, this is certainly one gem to have if you love arcade classics or any kind of racer.
Toy Story (Rating: 8/10)
Toy Story was an awesome movie. However, is it an awesome cash-in? Actually, the game's pretty good. As Woody, you go through 17 levels that relate to the movie and follow its storyline.
The graphics are some of the best on the SNES. In fact, it might look fabulous on the Game Boy Advance!
The sounds and music are also just as amazing!
The gameplay is also pretty good, but it's always varied, although it's mostly a platform game.
However, the game is hard. Although things are easier after beating it once.
The storyline is horribly written in the game. For example: "I'm so mad that I can't see where I'm going!" However, you'd just skip the storyline cutscenes anyway. What? We've all done it.
Since this is the first version of the game released, there are obvious differences between this and the other versions.
But overall, this is a good game for the SNES library that you should probably own.
The graphics are some of the best on the SNES. In fact, it might look fabulous on the Game Boy Advance!
The sounds and music are also just as amazing!
The gameplay is also pretty good, but it's always varied, although it's mostly a platform game.
However, the game is hard. Although things are easier after beating it once.
The storyline is horribly written in the game. For example: "I'm so mad that I can't see where I'm going!" However, you'd just skip the storyline cutscenes anyway. What? We've all done it.
Since this is the first version of the game released, there are obvious differences between this and the other versions.
But overall, this is a good game for the SNES library that you should probably own.
Wario's Woods (Rating: 8/10)
Wario's Woods is, shock, a starring role for Mario character Toad (Wario's the villain). The game is an actually very interesting line-up-3-in-a-row kind of puzzle game in which Toad is playable in the play field, along with all of these colored creatures lying around. Although you must stack 2 creatures alongside each other, you must have the row contain a bomb either in between or at an end. You can line them up horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally. The result is an extremely addicting game that's as fun as Tetris.
Things get more challenging when Wario comes into the scene, in place of pink harmless dinosaur Birdo. He spawns a few more creatures that you must destroy AND he makes the ceiling tumble slightly downwards! But don't worry. It doesn't last too long. Birdo would soon come back and resume watching without any gimmick up her (his?) sleeve.
2-Player surely has people go to their competitive senses. If you like battling against your friend in puzzle games, this won't disappoint.
So overall, this is a really big puzzler. It's recommended especially for puzzle fans.
Things get more challenging when Wario comes into the scene, in place of pink harmless dinosaur Birdo. He spawns a few more creatures that you must destroy AND he makes the ceiling tumble slightly downwards! But don't worry. It doesn't last too long. Birdo would soon come back and resume watching without any gimmick up her (his?) sleeve.
2-Player surely has people go to their competitive senses. If you like battling against your friend in puzzle games, this won't disappoint.
So overall, this is a really big puzzler. It's recommended especially for puzzle fans.
Yoshi's Island (Rating: 10/10)
1995 seemed to be a great year for a gamer. The Donkey Kong Country series went portable with DK Land, Rayman was a surprise full of perfection, and Vectorman appealed to Sega Genesis players with its colorful pre-rendered graphics that DKC had done. All of these games were great, but Yoshi's Island was the best of all. While Rayman would have been my favorite game of all time, it suffered from the most extreme difficulty EVER. Yoshi's Island has amazing graphics, catchy sound/music, awesome gameplay, AND forgiving difficulty alike.
This is not the average Mario game, but rather is it what fans would call a Yoshi game, since it plays a lot differently. As Yoshi, you romp through levels like usual, but now you can throw eggs at enemies, as well as eat enemies to make eggs. There is also a huge variety of obstacles, like boulders, loads of unique platforms, collectible flowers, the enemies doing all kinds of stuff, etc, etc. But the thing is: It is all well-crafted and carefully put together for one of the ultimate platforming experiences. Don't believe me? Go on some video websites and watch some gameplay footage. One look and you'll agree that it looks beyond terrific.
There are also some bonuses in the game to help you on your quest to defeat the evil Bowser Jr. For example, there are small houses that you may possibly find in a level (It requires a key, though). Once you are able to enter in, you must compete with an enemy in a certain challenge (Collect most coins, Pop most balloons, etc). There's also bonus challenges when the goal chooses a flower you had collected (In a roulette-like way).
Overall, it's definitely one of the greatest platformers I have ever played. I may prefer Super Mario World as the best of all, but this game certainly comes close to winning that title.
This is not the average Mario game, but rather is it what fans would call a Yoshi game, since it plays a lot differently. As Yoshi, you romp through levels like usual, but now you can throw eggs at enemies, as well as eat enemies to make eggs. There is also a huge variety of obstacles, like boulders, loads of unique platforms, collectible flowers, the enemies doing all kinds of stuff, etc, etc. But the thing is: It is all well-crafted and carefully put together for one of the ultimate platforming experiences. Don't believe me? Go on some video websites and watch some gameplay footage. One look and you'll agree that it looks beyond terrific.
There are also some bonuses in the game to help you on your quest to defeat the evil Bowser Jr. For example, there are small houses that you may possibly find in a level (It requires a key, though). Once you are able to enter in, you must compete with an enemy in a certain challenge (Collect most coins, Pop most balloons, etc). There's also bonus challenges when the goal chooses a flower you had collected (In a roulette-like way).
Overall, it's definitely one of the greatest platformers I have ever played. I may prefer Super Mario World as the best of all, but this game certainly comes close to winning that title.