Dive into the world of Gotham with Batman Forever on SNES – a unique blend of beat-em-up action and adventure, with a touch of the absurd and unexpected.
Overview
Batman Forever is a game that attempts to encapsulate the Batman universe into a 16-bit experience. At first glance, the game impresses with its promise of an authentic Batman adventure, bolstered by a catchy marketing campaign. Despite some deviations from the movie, it offers a decent beat-em-up gameplay experience, although it may not fully live up to the expectations set by its flashy advertisements.
Gameplay Mechanics
In Batman Forever, players can choose to play as Batman or Robin, each with unique gadgets and abilities, navigating through levels inspired by the movie scenes. However, the game takes liberties with the story, focusing more on gameplay than narrative accuracy.
Action and Pacing
The game’s pace is relatively slow, with a maximum of two enemies on screen and noticeable loading times between rooms. Despite these limitations, Batman Forever maintains a consistent, albeit slow, action flow.
Gadgets and Combat
Players can select two gadgets before each level, adding a strategic element to the gameplay. However, the utility of these gadgets varies, with some being less effective than others. The grappling hook is a notable addition, allowing access to secret rooms and adding a layer of exploration.
Fighting System and Graphics
Batman Forever borrows elements from the Mortal Kombat series, particularly in its fighting system. This choice creates a unique but somewhat mismatched combat experience for a Batman game, often leading players to rely on basic attacks like roundhouse kicks and uppercuts.
Character Representations
The game’s portrayal of Batman and Robin is a mix of realism and cartoonish style. Batman’s gear is high-tech and practical, while Robin’s outfit seems less suitable for crime-fighting. This contrast adds a unique visual element to the game.
Special Features and Modes
Training Mode and Character Powers
The training mode functions like a fighting game, allowing players to control holographic versions of characters. This mode is akin to Mortal Kombat but without a narrative, offering a variety of cartoonish characters to choose from.
Enemy Abilities and Design Choices
Enemies in Batman Forever are given exaggerated powers, sometimes bordering on the ridiculous. This design choice adds an element of humor and absurdity to the game, making it distinct from more realistic interpretations of the Batman universe.
Conclusion
Batman Forever on SNES is an intriguing mix of beat-em-up gameplay, Mortal Kombat-style combat, and cartoonish elements. While it may not perfectly capture the essence of Batman, it offers an enjoyable experience with moments of genuine Batman-like action. The game’s unique take on the superhero genre makes it worth exploring for fans and gamers alike.
Play Batman Forever Online Anywhere
You can enjoy Batman Forever on SNES, and it’s also available to play on web, mobile, and tablet platforms, offering versatile gaming experiences.