Splatterhouse (1988)

by Christopher April 17, 2024

written by Christopher April 17, 2024 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1988
Genres: Arcade, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
Platforms: Arcade, FM Towns, PC (Microsoft Windows), TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine, Wii
Publishers: Namco, Namco Bandai Games, Ving Co., Ltd.

Splatterhouse (1988): A Retro Horror Classic

Released in 1988, Splatterhouse is a side-scrolling beat ’em up video game that quickly gained a cult following among horror fans. The game’s unique blend of over-the-top gore, dark humor, and challenging gameplay made it a standout in the arcade scene.

Story

Splatterhouse tells the story of Rick Taylor, a parapsychology student who is investigating the mysterious West Mansion. After his girlfriend Jennifer is kidnapped by a group of monsters, Rick is possessed by the Terror Mask, a powerful artifact that gives him superhuman strength and the ability to fight off the horrors that lurk within the mansion.

Gameplay

Splatterhouse is a side-scrolling beat ’em up in which players control Rick as he fights his way through hordes of grotesque creatures. Rick has a variety of attacks at his disposal, including punches, kicks, and a special drop kick. He can also pick up and use weapons found throughout the levels, such as knives, axes, and even severed limbs.

The game is known for its high difficulty, with enemies that can quickly overwhelm the player if they are not careful. However, Rick’s powerful attacks and the ability to respawn at checkpoints make the game more manageable than it initially appears.

Graphics and Sound

Splatterhouse’s graphics are some of the most impressive for an arcade game of its time. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are full of gruesome imagery. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of heavy metal and ambient tracks that perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere.

Legacy

Splatterhouse has been praised for its innovative gameplay, unique visuals, and dark humor. It has been ported to numerous home consoles and has spawned several sequels and spin-offs. The game has also been referenced in other works of popular culture, such as the TV show “Family Guy” and the movie “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.”

Conclusion

Splatterhouse (1988) is a classic side-scrolling beat ’em up that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. Its unique blend of horror, humor, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for anyone who loves retro gaming.

Additional Details

Splatterhouse was developed by Namco and released in arcades in 1988.
The game was ported to the Sega Genesis, TurboGrafx-16, and PC Engine in 1989.
A remake of Splatterhouse was released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2010.
The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, unique visuals, and dark humor.
Splatterhouse has been ported to numerous home consoles and has spawned several sequels and spin-offs.

Tips for Playing Splatterhouse

Use Rick’s special drop kick to clear out large groups of enemies.
Pick up and use weapons whenever possible, as they can deal more damage than Rick’s fists.
Be careful of the traps and hazards that are scattered throughout the levels.
Don’t be afraid to use the checkpoints to your advantage.
Have fun! Splatterhouse is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun.

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.