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Story
Set in a dystopian future where the line between entertainment and survival has been blurred, Super Smash TV thrusts players into a brutal game show where contestants fight for their lives. The game takes place in the year 1999, a future imagined from the early 90s perspective, where television has evolved into a gladiatorial spectacle. The premise is simple yet chilling: contestants must survive waves of robotic and human enemies in arenas filled with deadly traps, all for the amusement of the viewing public.
The narrative, while not heavily detailed, is effectively communicated through the game’s opening sequence and occasional interludes by the game show host. This host, a charismatic yet sinister figure, embodies the dark humor and satirical tone of the game. Players must navigate through several levels, each designed like a TV studio set, filled with enemies and hazards. The ultimate goal is to win fabulous prizes, including luxury cars, vacations, and even a lifetime supply of VCRs, all while staying alive.
Gameplay
Super Smash TV is an intense top-down shooter that challenges players with its fast-paced action and relentless enemy waves. Developed by Williams Electronics and initially released in arcades in 1990, the game is a spiritual successor to Robotron: 2084, sharing its dual-stick control scheme. This control method allows players to move in one direction while shooting in another, providing a high level of control and precision necessary to survive the onslaught.
Core Mechanics
The game is structured around a series of rooms, each serving as an arena where players must defeat all enemies to progress. Players can collect various power-ups that increase firepower or provide temporary invincibility. Weapons range from the standard machine gun to more exotic arms like grenade launchers and spread guns, each with its strategic advantages. Managing these power-ups and knowing when to use them is crucial for survival, especially during boss battles.
Multiplayer Experience
Super Smash TV shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode. Supporting up to two players, it enhances the chaotic fun as players work together to clear rooms and defeat bosses. Teamwork is essential in managing power-ups and covering different areas of the screen, making for a dynamic and engaging experience. The game is notoriously challenging, with difficulty increasing rapidly as players progress, ensuring that even seasoned players find a formidable challenge.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Super Smash TV boasted impressive graphics that captured the chaotic energy of a futuristic game show. The graphical style is colorful and vibrant, with well-animated characters and enemies. The design of the various bosses, from the hulking Mutoid Man to the mechanical Cobra Head, is particularly noteworthy, showcasing creativity and attention to detail.
Sound design plays a crucial role in immersing players in the game’s frantic atmosphere. The soundtrack is filled with upbeat, adrenaline-pumping tunes that complement the action-packed gameplay. Sound effects, such as the explosions and the cries of defeated enemies, are satisfying and further amplify the game’s arcade feel. The voice of the game show host, with his catchphrase “Good luck! You’ll need it!” adds a memorable touch of character to the experience.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Super Smash TV was met with critical acclaim for its addictive gameplay and challenging difficulty. It was praised for its innovative control scheme and cooperative play, which set it apart from other arcade titles of the era. The game’s success led to multiple ports across various platforms, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Sega Genesis, and later, digital re-releases on modern systems.
Influence on Future Games
Super Smash TV has had a lasting influence on the shooter genre, particularly in the design of twin-stick shooters. Its emphasis on cooperative gameplay and strategic power-up management can be seen in later titles such as Geometry Wars and the Smash TV-inspired indie game, Nex Machina. Additionally, the game’s satirical take on media and consumer culture was ahead of its time, offering social commentary that remains relevant today.
Cult Status
Over the years, Super Smash TV has maintained a cult following, celebrated for its challenging gameplay and retro charm. It is often included in lists of the greatest arcade games, and its memorable catchphrases and intense action continue to endear it to fans of classic gaming. The game’s continued popularity is a testament to its design and the nostalgia it evokes for the golden age of arcade gaming.
Conclusion
Super Smash TV stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of early 90s arcade games. Its blend of fast-paced action, cooperative multiplayer, and satirical storytelling has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. While it may not have a deep narrative, its engaging gameplay and memorable presentation have ensured its place in the pantheon of classic video games. For those seeking a challenging and rewarding retro gaming experience, Super Smash TV remains a top contender, offering a glimpse into the era when arcades reigned supreme.
