Gremlins 2: The New Batch (NES) Playthrough
6Playthrough of Gremlins 2: The New Batch, Sunsoft's 1990 platformer for the NES.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch for the Nintendo Entertainment System is a standout example of how to properly adapt a film into a video game. Developed by Sunsoft and released in 1990, the game takes the mischievous charm and chaos of the movie and translates it into a tight, challenging, and well-designed action-platformer that remains impressive for its time.
Players take control of Gizmo, the lovable Mogwai, as he battles his way through Clamp Enterprises to stop the gremlin outbreak. The game is presented from a top-down perspective reminiscent of Sunsoft’s earlier title Fester’s Quest, though with more refined visuals and tighter controls. Gizmo can move and fire in eight directions, and the level designs are more focused and detailed, allowing for smooth pacing and solid navigation. The ability to shoot through walls adds a welcome strategic element to combat.
Visually, the game showcases Sunsoft’s technical proficiency on the NES. The graphics are colorful and expressive, and the inclusion of cutscenes that resemble moments from the film gives it a cinematic flair that was rare for the era. The soundtrack, composed by Naoki Kodaka and Nobuyuki Hara, is another high point. Featuring strong use of bass and complex melodies, it delivers one of the most memorable soundscapes on the console, perfectly complementing the game’s tone.
Beneath its cute exterior lies a considerable challenge. Like many of Sunsoft’s titles, Gremlins 2 demands precision and pattern recognition. Early stages are approachable, but the later levels test the player’s reflexes and memorization skills. The difficulty curve is steep but fair, rewarding players who master its mechanics.
As a licensed game, Gremlins 2 stands as a model of how to do it right. Where many movie-based titles of the NES era felt rushed or shallow, this one exhibits care, craftsmanship, and a clear understanding of its source material. It captures the spirit of the movie while standing firmly on its own as a well-built action game. Even today, it remains a bright example of Sunsoft’s skill and of how thoughtful design can elevate a licensed property into something genuinely memorable.