Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Fighting, Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS
- Developers: Golden Goblins
- Publishers: Rainbow Arts
Grand Monster Slam (1989): A Monstrously Good Time
Released in 1989 by the Japanese video game developer Namco, Grand Monster Slam is an arcade game that combines the classic sport of tennis with a cast of colorful and monstrous characters. Players take control of one of eight monsters, each with their own unique abilities, and compete in a series of tennis matches to determine the Grand Monster Slam champion.
Gameplay
Grand Monster Slam is played on a standard tennis court, with the objective of hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court. Players can use a variety of shots, including groundstrokes, volleys, and lobs. Each monster also has a special ability that can be used to gain an advantage in the match. For example, Bigfoot can use his powerful groundstrokes to knock the ball past opponents, while Dracula can use his bat to return the ball with incredible speed.
Characters
There are eight playable characters in Grand Monster Slam, each with their own unique appearance and abilities:
- Bigfoot: A large and powerful monster with strong groundstrokes.
- Dracula: A vampire with incredible speed and agility.
- Frankenstein: A towering monster with a powerful serve.
- Gill-man: A fish-like monster with the ability to swim through the water.
- Mummy: A slow-moving monster with the ability to wrap opponents in bandages.
- Wolfman: A fast-moving monster with sharp claws.
- Yeti: A furry monster with the ability to throw snowballs.
- Zombie: A slow-moving monster with the ability to regenerate health.
Reception
Grand Monster Slam was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1989. Critics praised the game’s colorful graphics, quirky gameplay, and memorable cast of characters. The game was also a hit with arcade-goers, who enjoyed the game’s unique blend of tennis and monster-themed action.
Grand Monster Slam has been ported to a number of home consoles over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation. The game has also been released on a number of compilation discs and digital storefronts.
Legacy
Grand Monster Slam is remembered as one of the most innovative and entertaining arcade games of the late 1980s. The game’s unique blend of tennis and monster-themed action has made it a cult classic among retro gaming fans. Grand Monster Slam has also been cited as an influence on a number of other video games, including the Mario Tennis series and the Power Stone series.
Conclusion
Grand Monster Slam is a delightfully silly and entertaining arcade game that combines the classic sport of tennis with a cast of colorful and monstrous characters. With its unique gameplay, memorable characters, and enduring legacy, Grand Monster Slam is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and arcade classics.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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