Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Adventure, Arcade
- Platforms: Amiga
- Publishers: Gonzo Games
Brides of Dracula: A Spooky and Strategic Split-Screen Classic
Released in 1992 for the NES, Brides of Dracula is a two-player split-screen game that combines elements of action, strategy, and horror. Players take on the roles of either vampire hunter Van Helsing or Count Dracula himself, each with their own unique objectives and abilities.
Gameplay
The game takes place in the village of Bistritz and the adjacent church cemetery. Van Helsing’s goal is to find thirteen tools to kill Dracula and his brides, bring them back to his home, and store them in a cupboard. Dracula’s goal is to create thirteen brides by finding women, biting them, and leading them back to his crypt, where thirteen coffins await.
Both characters can be killed by certain hazardous environments and non-player characters (NPCs). For example, ghouls only attack Van Helsing, while priests and villagers only harm Dracula. Each player starts with three lives. Collected objects and women are displayed at the bottom of the character window, along with a health bar.
Characters
- Van Helsing: A vampire hunter armed with a variety of weapons, including a whip, a crucifix, and holy water.
- Count Dracula: The vampire lord who can transform into a bat or a wolf. He can also summon brides to fight for him.
- Brides: Female vampires who can attack Van Helsing on sight.
- Villagers: Humans who will attack Dracula on sight.
- Priests: Humans who can exorcise Dracula if they touch him.
- Ghouls: Undead creatures who will attack Van Helsing on sight.
Items
There are a variety of items that can be collected in the game, including:
- Weapons: Van Helsing can collect a variety of weapons to help him fight Dracula and his brides, including a whip, a crucifix, and holy water.
- Tools: Van Helsing must find thirteen tools to kill Dracula. These tools include a hammer, a stake, and a garlic bulb.
- Women: Dracula must find thirteen women to turn into brides.
Strategy
Brides of Dracula is a game that requires both skill and strategy. Players must learn to use their characters’ unique abilities to their advantage and to avoid the various hazards that the game throws at them.
As Van Helsing, players must be careful to avoid the ghouls and other monsters that roam the village. They must also be careful not to get too close to Dracula, as he can easily turn them into a vampire.
As Dracula, players must be careful to avoid the villagers and priests who will attack him on sight. They must also be careful not to get too close to Van Helsing, as he can easily kill him with his vampire-hunting tools.
Reception
Brides of Dracula was released to mixed reviews. Some critics praised the game’s unique gameplay and graphics, while others criticized its difficulty and lack of polish. However, the game has since gained a cult following among retro gamers.
Legacy
Brides of Dracula is a unique and challenging game that has stood the test of time. It is a classic example of a split-screen game that can be enjoyed by both single players and multiplayer groups.
Tips for Playing
- As Van Helsing, try to stay away from the ghouls and other monsters that roam the village.
- As Dracula, try to avoid the villagers and priests who will attack you on sight.
- Both characters can be killed by falling into the water.
- The game can be paused by pressing the Start button.
- There is a secret level that can be accessed by finding a hidden key.
Conclusion
Brides of Dracula is a fun and challenging game that is perfect for Halloween or any other time of year. It is a great game for both single players and multiplayer groups.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
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