Bonk’s Adventure (1989)

by Christopher January 16, 2022

written by Christopher January 16, 2022 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1989
Genres: Platform
Platforms: Amiga, Nintendo Entertainment System, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine, Wii, Wii U
Developers: Atlus, Red Company
Publishers: Hudson Soft, Konami, NEC Home Electronics

Bonk’s Adventure: A Prehistorically Good Time

Released in 1989 for the TurboGrafx-16, Bonk’s Adventure is a 2D platformer that quickly became a fan favorite. With its charming graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, it’s no wonder that Bonk’s Adventure has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic today.

Gameplay

Bonk’s Adventure is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Bonk, a caveman with a giant head and a powerful noggin. Bonk’s main form of attack is his headbutt, which he can use to defeat enemies and break through obstacles. He can also jump, climb, and swing from ropes to navigate the game’s many levels.

The game is set in a prehistoric world, and the levels are filled with a variety of enemies, such as dinosaurs, cavemen, and giant insects. Bonk must use his headbutt to defeat these enemies and collect power-ups to help him on his quest.

Graphics and Sound

Bonk’s Adventure features colorful and detailed graphics that were impressive for its time. The game’s world is full of lush landscapes, from dense jungles to fiery volcanoes. The character sprites are also well-animated, and Bonk’s exaggerated movements are sure to bring a smile to your face.

The game’s music is also top-notch. The catchy tunes are perfectly suited to the game’s prehistoric setting, and they help to create a sense of adventure and excitement.

Story

The story of Bonk’s Adventure is simple but charming. Bonk is a caveman who sets out on a quest to rescue Princess Za from the evil King Drool. Along the way, Bonk must travel through a variety of prehistoric landscapes and defeat a host of enemies.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes, which are presented in a humorous and lighthearted style. The cutscenes help to add personality to the game and make the player feel more invested in Bonk’s quest.

Legacy

Bonk’s Adventure was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish the TurboGrafx-16 as a major player in the 16-bit console market. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the NES, Game Boy, and PlayStation Store. It has also been included in Nintendo’s Virtual Console service.

Bonk’s Adventure has spawned a number of sequels and remakes, including Bonk’s Revenge (1991), Bonk 3: Bonk’s Big Adventure (1993), and Bonk’s Adventure Re-Imagined (2020). The game has also been featured in a number of crossover games, such as Hudson Selection Volume 4 (1997) and Neo Geo Pocket Color Selection Vol. 1 (1999).

Conclusion

Bonk’s Adventure is a classic platformer that is still enjoyed by gamers today. With its charming graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, it’s easy to see why this game has stood the test of time. If you’re a fan of platformers, or if you’re just looking for a fun and nostalgic game to play, then Bonk’s Adventure is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.