The Simpsons: Bart vs. the World (1993 – Sega Master System Port)
The Simpsons: Bart vs. the World is a platform game based on the animated television series The Simpsons, originally released for the NES in 1991 and later ported to the Sega Master System in 1993. The game follows Bart Simpson as he travels around the world on a scavenger hunt, facing off against Mr. Burns and his agents. The Master System version was developed by Arc Developments and published by Flying Edge, and it features side-scrolling platforming action interspersed with mini-games based on the show.
Gameplay and Mechanics
In Bart vs. the World, players control Bart as he navigates through levels set in various locations around the world, including China, the North Pole, Egypt, and Hollywood. The gameplay involves running, jumping, and defeating enemies using firecracker balls. Bart can also collect Squishees to restore health and a cape that transforms him into Bartman, allowing him to fly for a limited time. The primary objective is to collect Krusty-brand souvenirs hidden in each stage, which unlock the best ending and a bonus Hollywood level.
The game also features mini-games in each area, including a matching-card game and a trivia game based on episodes from the first two seasons of The Simpsons. The mini-games add variety to the gameplay and serve as a nod to fans of the show. The game's controls are responsive, but the platforming physics can be challenging, with some jumps requiring precise timing. The game's difficulty is moderate, with a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving in addition to action.
Legacy and Reception
Bart vs. the World received mixed reviews upon release. Critics praised the game's humor, the inclusion of trivia and mini-games, and its colorful graphics, but criticized the platforming sections for being generic and the controls for being sluggish. The Master System version is considered a decent port of the NES original, but it is often overshadowed by other Simpsons games like Bart vs. the Space Mutants. Nevertheless, the game holds a nostalgic place for fans of the show and the Sega Master System, and it remains a notable licensed title from the 1990s.