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Remember Battletoads for the Nintendo NES? This action-packed adventure game, released in 1991, captured the hearts of gamers with its awesome intro, the menacing Dark Queen villain, and the unforgettable pause music. While some have considered Battletoads an overhyped rip-off of Ninja Turtles, I strongly disagree. This platform game offered a unique experience where each level was as distinctive as it was challenging, and boy, was this toads game hard!
In fact, many considered Battletoads to be damn near impossible due to its extreme difficulty. Most players would make it to level 3, the infamous hover bike stage, only to give up out of sheer frustration. While it’s not necessarily the hardest level in the game, it’s arguably the most frustrating, showcasing the over-the-top gameplay that Battletoads is known for.
Luckily, there were multiple ways to cheat in Battletoads games. One method involved finding warps that would let you jump levels. The warp in level 1 could be accessed after headbutting the two enemies at the beginning of the game, then running forward and up. To learn how to headbutt, you just had to tap forward twice to run, then press the attack button – a prime example of the innovative Battletoads gameplay mechanics.
The other way to cheat? Why, the Game Genie, of course! This cheat device made for the Nintendo (and integrated into emulators) allowed the anthropomorphic toads, for example, to have infinite lives (code GXXZZLVI). All the Game Genie did was alter assembly code, giving players a fighting chance against the game’s notorious difficulty.
There was also a Battletoads Sega Genesis version that was mostly the same game but with improved hand-drawn graphics. The Battletoads characters – Rash, Pimple, and Zitz – were all memorable in their own way. Two of them could be played side-by-side with a friend, offering an exciting couch co-op experience.
Did you know that there was an animated pilot for a Battletoads cartoon series? In 1992, DIC Entertainment produced a half-hour pilot that was never picked up by a network. The pilot follows Rash, Zitz, and Pimple as they try to stop the Dark Queen from stealing Santa Claus’s presents and taking over the world. The animation was impressive for its time and had a similar look to the popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon, featuring cinematic cutscenes that brought the Battletoads universe to life.
In addition to being a hit on the NES and Sega Genesis, Battletoads also spawned an arcade game. Developed by Rare and released in 1994, the arcade version was similar in gameplay to its console counterparts but featured updated graphics and sound. Players could choose to play as either Rash or Zitz and battle through several levels filled with enemies and bosses. Despite its popularity, the arcade game was notoriously difficult, even more so than the NES version, further cementing Battletoads’ reputation for extreme difficulty.
Battletoads was and still is considered a great game because of its unique gameplay and level design. While it may have been challenging, the difficulty only added to the satisfaction of finally beating a level. The cheats and Game Genie codes were a fun addition, but the true joy came from mastering the game without them. Battletoads served as a memorable addition to the NES library and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers who grew up with it.
The legacy of Battletoads extends far beyond its initial release. The game has gained a cult following over the years, with fans clamoring for new installments and remakes. The franchise has seen releases on various platforms, including Game Boy, SNES, and even a modern reimagining on Xbox One and Windows in 2020. This enduring popularity is a testament to the game’s innovative design, featuring morph attacks and other unique gameplay elements that set it apart from other beat ’em up games of its time.
Battletoads remains a beloved classic in the world of video games. Its combination of challenging gameplay, memorable characters, and innovative features has ensured its place in gaming history. Whether you’re a fan of the original NES version or have experienced the franchise on newer platforms, there’s no denying the impact that these space mutants have had on the gaming industry. So, the next time someone asks, “Do you have Battletoads?” you can proudly say yes and share your love for this iconic series.