Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
- Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Blizzard Entertainment, Sunsoft
- Publishers: Sunsoft
The Death and Return of Superman: A Nostalgic Dive into the Iconic DC Beat ’em Up
Released in 1994, The Death and Return of Superman is a side-scrolling beat ’em up game based on the popular DC comic book storyline of the same name. Developed by Sunsoft and published by Time Warner Interactive, the game allows players to relive the epic battle between Superman and the monstrous Doomsday, as well as control the destiny of the four Supermen who emerged in the wake of Superman’s apparent demise.
Gameplay
The Death and Return of Superman is a classic side-scrolling beat ’em up, similar to games like Streets of Rage and Final Fight. Players control Superman as he fights his way through hordes of enemies, including Lex Luthor’s henchmen, Doomsday’s minions, and even the Eradicator. Superman has a variety of attacks at his disposal, including punches, kicks, heat vision, and super breath.
The game is divided into 10 levels, each with its own unique boss fight. The first half of the game focuses on Superman’s battle against Doomsday, while the second half sees players controlling one of the four Supermen (Superboy, Steel, the Cyborg Superman, or the Eradicator) as they try to prove themselves worthy of the Superman mantle.
Story
The story of The Death and Return of Superman follows the events of the popular DC comic book storyline of the same name. After a long and arduous battle, Superman is seemingly killed by the monstrous Doomsday. In the wake of Superman’s death, four new Supermen emerge, each claiming to be the one, true Superman.
Players control these four Supermen as they fight to prove themselves worthy of the Superman mantle. Along the way, they must battle Doomsday’s minions, Lex Luthor’s henchmen, and even each other. In the end, only one Superman can remain.
Graphics and Sound
For a 1994 game, The Death and Return of Superman has impressive graphics. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the epic tone of the story.
Legacy
The Death and Return of Superman was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game is still fondly remembered by fans of beat ’em up games and DC Comics fans alike. It is considered to be one of the best Superman games ever made, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers.
Conclusion
The Death and Return of Superman is a classic beat ’em up game that perfectly captures the epic scope of the popular DC comic book storyline. With its challenging gameplay, stunning graphics, and memorable soundtrack, The Death and Return of Superman is a must-play for fans of beat ’em up games and DC Comics fans alike.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
