Batman (TurboGrafx-16) Playthrough
6Playthrough of Sunsoft's 1990 maze-action game for the PC Engine, Batman.
Batman for the PC Engine, developed by Sunsoft in 1990, takes an inventive approach to the Batman universe, blending action and maze gameplay inspired by Warner Bros.'s 1989 film adaptation. Steering away from a traditional platformer, Sunsoft designed this version as a top-down, maze-based action game where players guide Batman through Gotham’s most notorious locations, including the Gotham City streets, the Flugelheim Museum, and Axis Chemicals factory. Each of these locations is split into multiple stages where Batman must complete specific tasks, like retrieving dangerous chemicals, preserving artwork, and defusing bombs. The gameplay prioritizes exploration and item collection, rewarding players who find hidden power-ups, such as batarang upgrades that increase their range and effectiveness against enemies.
Sunsoft had previously adapted the 1989 Batman film for the NES, Game Boy, and Sega Genesis. It was produced by Cho Musou, with a soundtrack composed by Nobuyuki Hara, known for infusing atmosphere and tension into the game. Originally announced as a platformer, Batman for the PC Engine ultimately shifted to a Pac-Man-like maze game, giving players a different way to engage with Gotham’s underworld. Released on October 12, 1990, the game became Sunsoft’s final movie tie-in for the Batman series.
The game received mixed reviews upon release. Many critics praised its colorful and detailed visuals, capturing Batman’s grim setting with expressive character animations and cinematic cutscenes between stages. Console Ma'zine’s review noted the resemblance to Doraemon: Meikyū Daisakusen, another action-maze title, highlighting Batman's well-drawn graphics and engaging sprite animations. The music was generally well-received, with several reviewers commenting on its ability to set an immersive tone. However, the game’s limited sound effects were a disappointment for some.
Critics had differing opinions on gameplay mechanics and overall engagement. Some thought the repetition and simplicity made it less appealing than Sunsoft’s other Batman games. The graphics and music were appreciated. The game’s top-down perspective, similar to Pac-Man, provided a unique charm and appreciated the objective-based structure and replayability. It has since been remembered as a curious yet enjoyable departure from standard Batman titles of the era, offering a distinctive take on Gotham’s iconic hero.