Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Arcade
- Platforms: Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Beam Software
- Publishers: LJN
Back to the Future (1989): A Nostalgic NES Adventure
Released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Back to the Future is a platformer game based on the popular film of the same name. Developed by Beam Software, the game follows Marty McFly as he travels through time to prevent his parents from meeting and falling in love.
Despite being released over three decades ago, Back to the Future remains a fun and challenging game that captures the spirit of the classic film. While it’s not the most technically impressive game by today’s standards, it’s still a great way to experience the Back to the Future story on a home console.
Gameplay
Back to the Future is a side-scrolling platformer in which players control Marty McFly as he travels through different time periods. The game is divided into five levels, each of which is based on a different scene from the film.
In each level, Marty must navigate through a variety of obstacles and enemies, while collecting items and solving puzzles. Marty can use his skateboard to jump over gaps and grind on rails, and he can also use his slingshot to defeat enemies.
The game’s levels are varied and well-designed, and they do a good job of capturing the look and feel of the film. The Hill Valley level, for example, is a faithful recreation of the town from the film, complete with the clock tower and the town square.
Graphics and Sound
For an NES game, Back to the Future’s graphics are quite impressive. The characters and environments are well-detailed, and the game’s use of color is vibrant and eye-catching. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it features several catchy tunes that will get stuck in your head.
Story
Back to the Future’s story is faithful to the film, and it does a good job of capturing the film’s humor and excitement. The game’s dialogue is well-written, and the characters are all well-developed.
Replayability
Back to the Future is a relatively short game, but it’s one that you’ll want to replay again and again. The game’s challenging difficulty and varied levels make it a lot of fun to play, and there’s always something new to discover.
Overall
Back to the Future (1989) is a fun and challenging NES game that captures the spirit of the classic film. While it’s not the most technically impressive game by today’s standards, it’s still a great way to experience the Back to the Future story on a home console.
Tips for Playing Back to the Future
- Use your skateboard to your advantage. Marty’s skateboard can be used to jump over gaps, grind on rails, and even defeat enemies.
- Be careful of the time limit. Each level has a time limit, so you’ll need to move quickly and efficiently.
- Collect as many items as you can. Items can be used to restore Marty’s health, give him temporary invincibility, or even slow down time.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Back to the Future is a non-linear game, so there are multiple ways to complete each level.
Trivia
- Back to the Future was one of the first NES games to feature a licensed soundtrack.
- The game’s development was rushed, and it was released just six months after the film’s premiere.
- Back to the Future was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
Conclusion
Back to the Future (1989) is a classic NES game that still holds up today. It’s a fun and challenging platformer that captures the spirit of the classic film. If you’re a fan of Back to the Future, or if you’re just looking for a great NES game to play, then I highly recommend checking out Back to the Future (1989).
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
