Cliffhanger (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Cliffhanger (1989): A Retro Side-Scrolling Beat ‘Em Up

Released in 1989, Cliffhanger is a side-scrolling beat ’em up based on the Stallone film of the same name. The game follows Stallone’s character, Gabe Walker, as he tracks down suitcases of stolen cash dropped around the peaks of the Rockies.

Gameplay

Cliffhanger is a standard side-scrolling beat ’em up in the vein of Final Fight. Players control Gabe Walker as he fights his way through hordes of thugs, using a variety of punches, kicks, and throws. The game also features some unique environmental hazards, such as cliffs and avalanches, that players must navigate.

One of the things that sets Cliffhanger apart from other beat ’em ups is its focus on climbing and jumping. Gabe must often scale cliffs and leap over gaps in order to progress through the levels. This adds an extra layer of challenge to the game and helps to keep things interesting.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Cliffhanger’s graphics were quite impressive. The characters and backgrounds are all well-detailed and the animation is fluid. The game also features some impressive cutscenes that help to move the story along.

The sound in Cliffhanger is also top-notch. The music is catchy and the sound effects are realistic. The game’s voice acting is also quite good, with Stallone himself providing the voice of Gabe Walker.

Story

The story in Cliffhanger is identical to the film, with levels based off of, or inspired by, scenes in the movie. The game does a good job of capturing the excitement of the film and translating it into a video game format.

Overall

Cliffhanger is a fun and challenging side-scrolling beat ’em up that captures the excitement of the movie it’s based on. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch and the story is engaging. If you’re a fan of beat ’em ups or the Cliffhanger film, then you’ll definitely want to check this game out.

Here are some additional details about the game:

  • The game was developed by Ocean Software and published by Psygnosis.
  • It was released on the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, Sega CD, and ZX Spectrum.
  • The Sega CD version of the game features full-motion video cutscenes from the film.
  • The game received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its graphics and gameplay and others criticizing its repetitive nature.

Despite its mixed reviews, Cliffhanger remains a popular cult classic among fans of beat ’em ups and the Cliffhanger film.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More