Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Platform, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Atari ST/STE, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Capcom, Elite Systems
Ghosts ‘n Goblins: A Punishing but Rewarding Arcade Classic
Released in 1985 by Capcom, Ghosts ‘n Goblins is a side-scrolling platform game that quickly gained a reputation for being brutally difficult. Players control Sir Arthur, a valiant knight on a quest to rescue Princess Prin Prin from the clutches of Satan. Along the way, he must battle hordes of grotesque demons, zombies, ogres, dragons, and other monsters.
Gameplay
Ghosts ‘n Goblins is a classic arcade game, with simple but challenging gameplay. Players control Sir Arthur as he runs, jumps, and attacks his way through six levels of increasing difficulty. Arthur can use a variety of weapons, including lances, daggers, and throwing axes. He can also collect power-ups that give him temporary invincibility or the ability to shoot fireballs.
One of the unique features of Ghosts ‘n Goblins is its “armor system.” Arthur can wear up to three suits of armor, which protect him from enemy attacks. However, each hit Arthur takes removes one suit of armor. If Arthur loses all of his armor, he is reduced to his underwear and becomes much more vulnerable to enemy attacks.
Another challenging aspect of Ghosts ‘n Goblins is its time limit. Each level must be completed within a certain amount of time, or Arthur will lose a life. This time limit adds to the game’s tension and forces players to think strategically about how they approach each level.
Difficulty
Ghosts ‘n Goblins is notorious for its difficulty. The game’s enemies are relentless and unforgiving, and the time limit adds to the pressure. Players must be skilled in both combat and platforming in order to progress through the game.
The game’s difficulty has been the subject of much debate over the years. Some players argue that it is too difficult and unfair, while others appreciate the challenge and the sense of accomplishment that comes with overcoming it. Regardless of one’s opinion on its difficulty, there is no doubt that Ghosts ‘n Goblins is a challenging but rewarding experience.
Legacy
Ghosts ‘n Goblins has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. It is considered one of the most difficult games ever made, and its unique gameplay mechanics have been imitated by many other games. The game has also been praised for its dark and atmospheric visuals, which helped to set it apart from other arcade games of its time.
Ghosts ‘n Goblins has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers. The game has also been re-imagined in several sequels and spin-offs, including Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (1988), Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (1991), and Ultimate Ghosts ‘n Goblins (2006).
Conclusion
Ghosts ‘n Goblins is a classic arcade game that has stood the test of time. Its challenging gameplay, dark visuals, and memorable characters have made it a favorite among retro gamers for over 30 years. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, Ghosts ‘n Goblins is sure to provide a challenging and rewarding experience.
Tips for Playing Ghosts ‘n Goblins
- Learn the enemy patterns. Each enemy in Ghosts ‘n Goblins has its own unique attack patterns. By learning these patterns, you can avoid getting hit and conserve your armor.
- Use the environment to your advantage. The levels in Ghosts ‘n Goblins are filled with obstacles that can be used to your advantage. For example, you can use platforms to block enemy attacks or jump over pits.
- Don’t be afraid to use power-ups. Power-ups can give you a significant advantage in battle. Be sure to collect them whenever you can.
- Practice makes perfect. The best way to improve at Ghosts ‘n Goblins is to practice. The more you play, the better you will become at avoiding enemy attacks and completing the levels.
Additional Information
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release date: 1985
- Platforms: Arcade, NES, Sega Master System, Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, ZX Spectrum
- Genre: Platform game
- Difficulty: Hard
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
