Barbie (NES) Playthrough

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Published on October 13, 2024 12:00:00 AM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpuJJGQRvds

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The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man (1992)

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Playthrough of Hi Tech Expressions' 1991 platformer for the NES, Barbie.

Barbie for the NES, released by Hi Tech Expressions in 1991, is a side-scrolling platformer aimed at younger audiences, particularly fans of the Barbie franchise. In the game, players control Barbie as she embarks on a dreamlike adventure to rescue her friends and pets, all while preparing for a glamorous day at the mall. The game is designed to be accessible, with easy-to-learn controls and a simple, kid-friendly narrative. Despite its association with a popular toy brand, the game itself is a curious mix of light platforming, puzzle-solving, and mild action.

The story begins with Barbie falling asleep and entering a dream world where she must navigate a variety of whimsical environments. Her goal is to rescue her friends, collect items, and make her way to the mall for her big day. The plot is light and largely serves as a backdrop to the gameplay, but it fits the playful and imaginative tone of the game. Barbie moves through different themed levels, including an underwater world, a dream-like toy store, and a magical land filled with fantasy creatures. Each stage is filled with obstacles and enemies that Barbie must avoid or interact with using non-violent methods.

One of the defining features of Barbie for NES is its gameplay mechanics, which differ from traditional platformers of the time. Instead of jumping on enemies or using weapons, Barbie can throw various items, such as perfume bottles and musical notes, to neutralize obstacles or activate switches. The game encourages puzzle-solving over combat, as many challenges require players to figure out the correct items or actions to progress. Barbie also interacts with friendly animals and objects that assist her in her journey, adding a light-hearted, cooperative aspect to the gameplay.

The game’s difficulty is relatively low compared to other NES titles, which was intentional to cater to its younger audience. The platforming sections are forgiving, with Barbie able to take multiple hits before losing a life, and checkpoints are generous. However, the game’s lack of clear direction and somewhat slow pacing can make it feel repetitive, particularly for more experienced players. The emphasis on exploration and item collection is a nice touch, but the simplistic design can limit its long-term appeal.

Visually, Barbie for NES leans into its colorful, whimsical aesthetic. The environments are bright and imaginative, with each level offering a distinct theme that reflects the dreamlike quality of Barbie’s journey. The character sprites are well-animated for the NES, and Barbie herself is instantly recognizable with her blonde hair and fashionable outfits. The overall art direction is playful and vibrant, matching the tone of the Barbie brand. However, the graphical limitations of the NES mean that some of the environments feel a bit sparse or repetitive in their design.

The soundtrack is light and cheery, featuring simple, catchy tunes that play throughout the levels. While the music fits the whimsical tone of the game, it can become repetitive over time, as the same few tracks are recycled across different stages. The sound effects are minimal, mainly limited to Barbie’s interactions with objects and enemies, but they do their job in enhancing the experience without overwhelming the player.

In the broader context of NES games, Barbie stands out as a game tailored specifically for young girls, a rarity in a library dominated by more action-oriented titles. Though it lacks the depth and challenge of many other platformers, it does succeed in offering a gentler, more approachable gaming experience. For fans of Barbie or younger players looking for a non-violent, easygoing adventure, Barbie for the NES provides a charming, if somewhat simplistic, journey through a world of fashion, friendship, and imagination. While it may not hold up as a classic of the era, it remains a nostalgic piece of 90s gaming for those who grew up with the character.