Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Family Computer, Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii
- Developers: Capcom
- Publishers: Capcom, Walt Disney Computer Software
Disney’s DuckTales: A Timeless Classic of Platform Gaming
Released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Disney’s DuckTales is a platform game developed and published by Capcom based on the popular Disney animated television series of the same name. The game follows Scrooge McDuck, the world’s richest duck, as he travels around the globe collecting treasure and outwitting his rival Flintheart Glomgold.
DuckTales was a critical and commercial success, selling over a million copies worldwide on both the NES and Game Boy. The game was praised for its tight controls, unique and non-linear gameplay, and bright and colorful presentation. It has been consistently ranked as one of the best games for the NES and is considered a classic of the platforming genre.
Gameplay
DuckTales is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Scrooge McDuck as he explores various levels, collecting treasure and defeating enemies. Scrooge can use his cane to attack enemies, pogo jump to reach higher platforms, and swim underwater. He can also use his money bags to purchase items and upgrades from shops.
The game is divided into five levels, each of which is set in a different location around the world. These levels include the Amazon rainforest, the Himalayas, Transylvania, the African desert, and the Arctic. Each level is filled with unique enemies, obstacles, and puzzles.
Development
DuckTales was developed by a team led by producer Tokuro Fujiwara and director Shinji Mikami, who would later go on to create the Resident Evil series. The game was inspired by the Disney animated television series, but the developers took some creative liberties with the story and characters. For example, the game features a more adventurous and heroic version of Scrooge McDuck than the one seen in the TV show.
The development team also took great care in creating the game’s visuals and music. The game’s graphics are bright and colorful, and the music is catchy and memorable. The game’s soundtrack was composed by Capcom sound designer Yoko Shimomura, who would later go on to compose the music for the Kingdom Hearts series.
Legacy
DuckTales is considered one of the best games for the NES and is often ranked among the greatest video games of all time. The game has been praised for its tight controls, unique and non-linear gameplay, and bright and colorful presentation. It has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the Game Boy, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation 3.
DuckTales has also been the inspiration for several other games, including DuckTales 2 (1993), DuckTales: Remastered (2013), and DuckTales: QuackShot (1993). The game has also been featured in several crossover games, including Capcom’s own Marvel vs. Capcom series.
Conclusion
Disney’s DuckTales is a timeless classic of platform gaming. The game’s tight controls, unique and non-linear gameplay, and bright and colorful presentation make it a joy to play. It is a game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and is sure to provide hours of fun.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
