Smash T.V. (1992 – SFC Port)
Smash T.V. is a classic shoot 'em up game originally developed by Williams Entertainment and released for arcades in 1990. The Super Famicom port was published by ASCII on April 24, 1992. The game is a futuristic, over-the-top shooter where players control contestants in a deadly game show, fighting through waves of enemies to win prizes and survive. The game is known for its fast-paced action, cooperative gameplay, and darkly humorous premise, where the ultimate prize is freedom. ASCII, better known for their computer magazines and RPGs, brought this arcade classic to home consoles with a faithful and polished conversion.
Gameplay and Dual-Stick Shooting
Smash T.V. is a top-down shooter where players navigate a series of arenas, shooting enemies, collecting power-ups, and avoiding obstacles. The game uses a dual-joystick control scheme (simulated on the Super Famicom with a standard controller, using button combinations to aim in different directions), allowing players to move independently of their firing direction. The game's arsenal includes a variety of weapons, including machine guns, laser beams, spread shots, and rockets, which can be upgraded by collecting power-up capsules.
The game features a "prize" system, where defeating enemies and completing objectives earns points and prizes, such as bonus weapons, health packs, and extra lives. The game's levels are divided into "stages" and "boss fights," with each arena filled with enemies and environmental hazards. The game also includes a two-player cooperative mode, where both players can play simultaneously, doubling the firepower and fun. The game's difficulty is high, with relentless enemy spawns and complex bullet patterns that require quick reflexes and teamwork.
Smash T.V. was a commercial success and received critical acclaim for its addictive gameplay and faithful arcade conversion. It became a classic of the shoot 'em up genre and is often remembered for its unique premise and challenging action. The Super Famicom port was praised for its smooth performance and the inclusion of a password save system.