Summary
Carnage (1992): A SNES Classic That’s Still Worth Playing Today
Released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Carnage is a side-scrolling platformer that quickly gained a cult following among gamers. Developed by DMA Design (now known as Rockstar North) and published by Psygnosis, Carnage is known for its intense action, challenging levels, and memorable boss battles.
Gameplay
Carnage puts players in control of a muscular man named John, who is on a quest to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend from the evil sorcerer Zarok. John must travel through a variety of levels, including forests, caves, and castles, while fighting off hordes of enemies. John can attack enemies with his fists, feet, and a variety of weapons, including guns, swords, and axes.
One of the things that makes Carnage stand out from other platformers is its focus on action. John is constantly moving and fighting, and the game never lets up on the intensity. The levels are also designed to be challenging, with plenty of traps and obstacles to overcome.
Graphics and Sound
For a SNES game, Carnage’s graphics are impressive. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game also makes good use of Mode 7, which allows for some impressive scaling and rotation effects.
The sound in Carnage is also top-notch. The music is catchy and the sound effects are realistic. The game also features some great voice acting, especially from the main character, John.
Story
While the story in Carnage is fairly simple, it’s still effective. John is a relatable protagonist, and his quest to rescue his girlfriend is one that players can easily get behind. The game also features some great villains, including the evil sorcerer Zarok and his minions.
Legacy
Carnage was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a popular game among retro gamers today. The game has been praised for its intense action, challenging levels, and memorable boss battles. Carnage is also notable for being one of the first games to feature a muscular protagonist, which was a departure from the more traditional Mario and Sonic-style heroes.
Conclusion
Carnage is a classic SNES platformer that is still worth playing today. The game’s intense action, challenging levels, and memorable boss battles make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a great retro game to play, Carnage is definitely worth checking out.
Tips for Playing Carnage
- Use your weapons wisely. Each weapon in Carnage has its own strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to use the right weapon for the right situation.
- Don’t be afraid to explore. The levels in Carnage are large and complex. Be sure to explore every nook and cranny to find hidden items and secrets.
- Be patient. Carnage is a challenging game. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually beat the game.
Fun Facts About Carnage
- Carnage was originally supposed to be called “Total Carnage.”
- The game was developed by a small team of just four people.
- Carnage was one of the first games to feature a muscular protagonist.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Tim Follin, who also composed the soundtracks for other classic SNES games such as Super Metroid and Star Fox.
- Carnage was released in Japan under the name “Red Zone.”
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
