Summary
- Release Year: 1984
- Genres: Arcade
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 2600, Atari 8-bit, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Family Computer, MSX, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Master System/Mark III, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Activision, Dro Soft, Gradiente, Home Entertainment Suppliers Pty Ltd, Proein, Ricochet, Sega, Tec Toy, Tokuma Shoten
Ghostbusters (1984): A Nostalgic Trip Back to the 80s
Released in 1984, Ghostbusters is an action game that perfectly captures the excitement and humor of the iconic film franchise. The game features an overhead-view and a side-view, as players take control of the Ghostbusters and their trusty Ecto-1 to capture ghosts and save New York City.
Gameplay
From Ghostbusters HQ, players must monitor a map of midtown Manhattan for “ghost alarms”, as well as for casual, roaming spirits. Once a ghost alarm is triggered, players must plot a route to the alarmed area. The game then switches to a side-view, where players control two of the Ghostbusters as they attempt to lead the ghost(s) over a placed trap. Once activated, the trap springs to capture any ghosts directly above it.
Ghostbusting Equipment
Players can purchase new Ghostbusters vehicles and modifications for their equipment as they progress through the game. Some of the available upgrades include:
- Proton Pack: The iconic weapon of the Ghostbusters, used to capture ghosts.
- Ghost Trap: Used to trap captured ghosts.
- Ecto-1: The Ghostbusters’ trusty vehicle, used to travel around the city.
- Ecto-2: A smaller, more maneuverable version of the Ecto-1.
- Ghost Sniffer: A device used to detect ghosts.
- Slime Blower: A weapon that shoots slime at ghosts.
Enemies
The game features a variety of ghosts, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. Some of the most common ghosts include:
- Slimer: A small, green ghost that is easily captured.
- Boogaloo: A large, blue ghost that is more difficult to capture.
- Gozer the Gozerian: The main antagonist of the game, a powerful ghost that requires all four Ghostbusters to defeat.
Legacy
Ghostbusters (1984) was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, its faithful adaptation of the film franchise, and its memorable graphics and sound.
Ghostbusters has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Commodore 64, the Apple II, and the NES. The game has also been re-released on modern platforms, such as the PlayStation 3, the Xbox 360, and the Nintendo Switch.
Conclusion
Ghostbusters (1984) is a classic video game that perfectly captures the excitement and humor of the iconic film franchise. The game’s innovative gameplay, faithful adaptation of the film, and memorable graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the Ghostbusters franchise and retro gaming enthusiasts alike.
Tips for Playing Ghostbusters (1984)
- Use the Ghost Sniffer to detect ghosts. This will help you to avoid being surprised by ghosts and to plan your route accordingly.
- Lead ghosts over traps carefully. Ghosts can be tricky, so be patient and don’t rush your shots.
- Upgrade your equipment as soon as possible. This will make it easier to capture ghosts and to progress through the game.
- Don’t be afraid to use your proton pack. The proton pack is your most powerful weapon, so don’t be afraid to use it to stun ghosts and to clear a path.
- Work together with your fellow Ghostbusters. Ghostbusters is a team game, so it’s important to work together with your fellow Ghostbusters to capture ghosts and complete missions.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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