Beetlejuice (NES) Playthrough
5Playthrough of LJN's 1991 platformer for the NES, Beetlejuice.
Beetlejuice for the NES, released in 1991, is a platformer based on the hit movie and animated series. Players take on the role of the mischievous bio-exorcist Beetlejuice, navigating quirky, spooky levels filled with enemies and hazards inspired by the film's bizarre, supernatural world. The game captures the eccentric tone of the franchise, blending humor with creepy visuals.
Gameplay revolves around platforming and item collection, with Beetlejuice using his abilities to outsmart enemies and progress through levels. Players can summon special powers by purchasing items from shops, adding a strategic element to the game. These powers include summoning skeletons and other spooky creatures to aid in combat. The levels are varied, featuring environments like graveyards, haunted houses, and surreal dreamscapes that align with the film’s distinctive aesthetic.
The controls can be challenging, requiring precision jumping and timing to avoid traps and defeat enemies. The game is known for its difficulty, with limited lives and unforgiving level design. Players must explore carefully to uncover hidden secrets and gather the necessary resources to proceed, adding a layer of depth to the linear progression.
Visually, the game offers detailed sprite work and atmospheric backgrounds that bring the spooky and surreal vibe of Beetlejuice to life. The soundtrack complements the eerie and comedic tone, using 8-bit melodies to create a quirky atmosphere. While the gameplay may feel repetitive or frustrating at times, its unique style and connection to the Beetlejuice universe make it a memorable experience.
Despite its flaws, Beetlejuice for the NES stands out as a distinctive, if challenging, adaptation of the cult classic film, offering fans a chance to dive into its weird and wacky world in video game form.