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Story

Smash TV is an intense arcade game originally released in 1990, developed by Eugene Jarvis and Mark Turmell at Williams Electronics. The game is set in a dystopian future where the world is captivated by an ultra-violent game show called Smash TV. This game show pits contestants against hordes of enemies in a battle for survival. The year is 1999, and television has evolved into a platform for brutal entertainment, with Smash TV being the pinnacle of this evolution.

Players assume the role of a contestant in this deadly game show, where survival means earning fame and fortune. The game’s narrative is straightforward yet engaging; you fight through various themed rooms filled with enemies, collecting prizes, and ultimately aiming to defeat the show’s ultimate boss to become the champion. The concept of a dystopian game show where contestants risk their lives for the amusement of the audience was a fresh idea at the time, drawing inspiration from films like The Running Man.

Gameplay

Smash TV is known for its relentless, fast-paced action. The gameplay is centered around twin-stick shooting mechanics, where players use one joystick to move and the other to shoot in any direction. This setup allows for fluid maneuvering and shooting, crucial for surviving the overwhelming enemy swarms.

Game Structure

Players navigate through a series of interconnected rooms, each filled with a variety of enemies, traps, and power-ups. The primary objective is to clear each room of enemies to advance to the next. The game features multiple levels, each culminating in a boss fight. These bosses are challenging and require players to master the game’s mechanics to defeat them.

Enemies and Power-Ups

The game boasts a wide array of enemies, ranging from human-like adversaries to robotic foes. Each enemy type has unique attack patterns and behaviors, keeping the gameplay dynamic and engaging. To aid in their survival, players can pick up various power-ups scattered throughout the levels. These include enhanced weapons, shields, and speed boosts, all of which are essential for tackling the increasingly difficult waves of enemies.

Multiplayer Experience

Smash TV supports two-player cooperative gameplay, which significantly enhances the experience. The cooperative mode allows players to strategize and watch each other’s backs as they battle through the game. This feature was particularly appealing in arcade settings, where players could team up with friends or strangers for a shared gaming experience.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Smash TV featured cutting-edge graphics, with highly detailed sprites and smooth animations. The game’s visual style is vibrant and colorful, capturing the chaotic and frenetic nature of the gameplay. The character designs, especially the bosses, are elaborate and memorable, adding to the game’s overall appeal.

The sound design in Smash TV complements its visual presentation perfectly. The game features a high-energy soundtrack that keeps players engaged and motivated through the intense action. The sound effects are equally impressive, with loud explosions, gunfire, and the iconic voiceovers from the game show host, which add an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Smash TV was met with critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay and engaging concept. It quickly became a favorite in arcades, praised for its challenging yet rewarding action. The game’s success led to ports on various home consoles and computers, including the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and more. Each version tried to capture the essence of the arcade experience, with varying degrees of success.

Smash TV’s influence can be seen in many modern twin-stick shooters, as it set a benchmark for the genre with its tight controls and addictive gameplay loop. It paved the way for future titles by demonstrating how to blend challenging mechanics with cooperative multiplayer, creating an experience that is both competitive and collaborative.

The game has also maintained a lasting cultural impact, often referenced in discussions about classic arcade games and noted for its unique take on dystopian themes. Its catchphrases, such as “Big Money! Big Prizes! I love it!” have become iconic, further cementing its place in gaming history.

Conclusion

Smash TV remains a quintessential arcade experience, known for its relentless action and innovative gameplay mechanics. It successfully combined elements of a futuristic game show with intense combat, creating a game that was both challenging and entertaining. Its legacy lives on, influencing the design of many modern shooters and securing its place as a classic in the gaming world. For those who appreciate retro games or wish to explore the roots of the twin-stick shooter genre, Smash TV offers an exhilarating trip back to the golden age of arcade gaming.