Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Amiga, Amiga CD32, DOS, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Oscar (1993): A Cinematic Platformer Adventure
Released in 1993, Oscar is a charming and challenging platformer game that takes you on a whirlwind tour of Hollywood genres. You play as Oscar, a hapless film buff who must run, jump, and solve puzzles through seven increasingly bizarre and wonderful levels, all in the quest to find a collection of Oscars (yes, the Academy Awards!).
The game’s levels are a delightful pastiche of classic movie genres, from science fiction to westerns to horror to cartoons. Each level is packed with clever puzzles, tricky platforming challenges, and a cast of memorable characters.
In the science fiction level, for example, you must navigate a maze of laser beams and floating platforms while avoiding alien robots. In the western level, you must ride a horse through a treacherous canyon, shooting outlaws and dodging cacti. In the horror level, you must explore a haunted house, solving puzzles and avoiding ghosts.
One of the things that makes Oscar so special is its attention to detail. The game’s graphics are colorful and charming, and the music is catchy and memorable. The game’s controls are also tight and responsive, making it a pleasure to play.
Another thing that sets Oscar apart is its sense of humor. The game is full of witty dialogue and sight gags, and it never takes itself too seriously. This lighthearted tone makes Oscar a joy to play, even when you’re struggling to overcome a particularly challenging level.
Gameplay
Oscar is a side-scrolling platformer in the vein of Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. You control Oscar as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through seven levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges.
The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. You use the directional pad to move Oscar left and right, and the A button to jump. You can also press the B button to shoot, which is useful for defeating enemies and activating switches.
Oscar can also collect a variety of power-ups, such as speed boosts, invincibility, and extra lives. These power-ups can help you overcome the game’s many challenges.
Levels
Oscar’s seven levels are each themed after a different Hollywood genre. The levels are:
- Science Fiction: A maze of laser beams and floating platforms, filled with alien robots.
- Western: A treacherous canyon filled with outlaws and cacti.
- Horror: A haunted house filled with ghosts and puzzles.
- Cartoons: A whimsical world of giant mushrooms and talking animals.
- Dino: A prehistoric jungle filled with dinosaurs and other extinct creatures.
- Detective: A film noir-inspired level filled with gangsters and femme fatales.
- Gameshow: A game show-themed level filled with puzzles and challenges.
Each level is filled with its own unique challenges and obstacles. You’ll have to use your wits and skills to overcome them all.
Legacy
Oscar was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its charming graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay. Oscar was also one of the first games to feature a fully orchestrated soundtrack.
The game has since been ported to a variety of platforms, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Genesis, and the PC. Oscar also inspired a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Oscar in Toyland and Oscar’s World.
Today, Oscar is considered a classic platformer game. The game’s unique blend of humor, challenge, and Hollywood charm continues to entertain gamers of all ages.
Conclusion
Oscar (1993) is a delightful and challenging platformer game that takes you on a whirlwind tour of Hollywood genres. With its charming graphics, catchy music, and witty dialogue, Oscar is a joy to play. Whether you’re a fan of classic platformers or just looking for a fun and unique gaming experience, Oscar is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
