Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Reaktör Software
Challenge of the Gobots (1987): A Nostalgic Look at a Classic NES Game
Released in 1987 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Challenge of the Gobots is a side-scrolling action game based on the popular cartoon series of the same name. Developed by Ariolasoft and published by Bandai, the game allows players to take control of one of four different Gobots – Leader-1, Cy-Kill, Turbo, or Small Foot – and battle their way through hordes of enemy robots in order to save the world from the evil machinations of the Renegades.
Gameplay
Challenge of the Gobots is a fairly straightforward side-scrolling action game. Players control their chosen Gobot from a third-person perspective, and must use a combination of shooting and melee attacks to defeat the various enemies that stand in their way. Each Gobot has their own unique abilities and weapons, so players must choose their character carefully depending on their preferred playstyle.
The game is divided into six levels, each with its own unique set of challenges and enemies. Players must battle their way through hordes of Renegades, including foot soldiers, tanks, and even giant robots. Each level also features a boss battle against a powerful Renegade leader.
In addition to the main story mode, Challenge of the Gobots also features a two-player competitive mode. In this mode, two players can compete against each other in a race to the finish line. The first player to reach the end of the level wins.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Challenge of the Gobots had impressive graphics and sound. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game’s soundtrack is also quite good, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the excitement of the action.
Reception
Challenge of the Gobots was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. However, the game received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s graphics and gameplay, while others criticized its repetitive level design and lack of innovation.
Despite its mixed critical reception, Challenge of the Gobots remains a popular game among fans of the Gobots franchise. The game’s simple but fun gameplay, combined with its nostalgic appeal, make it a great choice for anyone looking for a classic NES action game.
Legacy
Challenge of the Gobots is one of the most well-known and beloved NES games based on a cartoon license. The game’s success helped to solidify the Gobots franchise as a major player in the world of 1980s pop culture.
In recent years, Challenge of the Gobots has been re-released on a number of different platforms, including the Wii Virtual Console and the Nintendo Switch Online service. This has allowed a new generation of gamers to experience this classic NES title.
Conclusion
Challenge of the Gobots is a fun and challenging NES game that perfectly captures the excitement of the popular cartoon series. With its simple but addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack, Challenge of the Gobots is a must-play for fans of the Gobots franchise and classic NES games alike.
Review Score
4/10
