Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Platform, Shooter
- Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
- Publishers: Tec Toy
Ghostbusters (1990): A Nostalgic Run-and-Gun Classic
Released in 1990 for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Ghostbusters is a run-and-gun game based on the popular movie franchise. Developed by Compile and published by Sega, the game is unrelated to the earlier Activision game of the same name.
Gameplay
Ghostbusters is a side-scrolling run-and-gun game in which the player takes control of one of three Ghostbusters: Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz, or Egon Spengler. The noticeable absence of Winston Zeddemore has never been officially explained.
The game consists of six levels, each with a different setting, such as the streets of New York City, a museum, and a sewer. The player must shoot ghosts, avoid obstacles, and collect power-ups.
Each level contains a number of mid-bosses, known as “middle ghosts.” After a middle ghost is defeated, it turns into a small green ghost which can be captured for extra money by luring it over a ghost trap.
Between levels, the player can use money to buy power-ups, such as a 3-way shot or recovery items.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Ghostbusters are colorful and detailed, with large sprites and smooth animation. The backgrounds are varied and well-drawn, and the game does a good job of capturing the look and feel of the movie.
The sound in Ghostbusters is also excellent, with catchy music and sound effects that perfectly match the on-screen action. The voice acting is also well done, with the actors from the movie reprising their roles.
Difficulty
Ghostbusters is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The difficulty ramps up gradually, and the player is given plenty of opportunities to learn the game’s mechanics. However, the later levels can be quite difficult, and the final boss is a particularly tough challenge.
Overall
Ghostbusters is a fun and challenging run-and-gun game that is sure to please fans of the movie and genre alike. The graphics and sound are excellent, and the gameplay is addictive. While the game is a bit on the difficult side, it is still a fair and rewarding experience.
Legacy
Ghostbusters has been praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. It is considered one of the best run-and-gun games on the Mega Drive/Genesis. The game has been re-released on several platforms over the years, and it remains popular with fans today.
In 2019, a new Ghostbusters game was released for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The game was developed by Saber Interactive and published by Mad Dog Games. The game is a third-person action-adventure game that follows the Ghostbusters as they investigate a new wave of paranormal activity in New York City.
The new Ghostbusters game has received mixed reviews, but it has been praised for its graphics, voice acting, and gameplay. The game has also been criticized for its repetitive missions and lack of innovation.
Despite the mixed reviews, the new Ghostbusters game is a solid entry in the franchise. It is a fun and challenging game that is sure to please fans of the movie and genre alike.
Tips for Playing Ghostbusters
- Use the different weapons to your advantage. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses, so be sure to use the right weapon for the job.
- Don’t be afraid to use the ghost traps. Ghost traps can be used to capture small green ghosts, which can be sold for extra money.
- Be careful of the middle ghosts. Middle ghosts are more powerful than regular ghosts, so be sure to avoid them if possible.
- Save your money for power-ups. Power-ups can be purchased between levels, and they can give you a significant advantage in the game.
- Don’t give up! Ghostbusters is a challenging game, but it is also a fair and rewarding experience. If you keep at it, you will eventually beat the game.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
