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Zombies Ate My Neighbors Review


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On 11/11/2009 at 09:30 AM by Lukasz Balicki

A cult classic is reborn on Virtual Console.
RECOMMENDATION:

Fans of cheesy horror movies and classic video games will love this game.

Zombies Ate My Neighbors is a unique game that has developed a strong cult following ever since its original 1993 release. The game is a top down run-and-gun game with many similar themes found in horror movies from the 1950's and more modern ones such as Friday the 13th. This game was one of my favorite games in the '90s and it still passes the test of time in 2009.

In the game players take the role of either Zeke, Julie, or both in two-player co-op mode. Players' ultimate goal is to try and save as many survivors as possible in each level, with a maximum of ten per level. When a survivor is saved, players earn points worth different amounts depending on which survivor was saved. After at least one survivor is saved, and there are no more left in the level, a magic exit door will appear to bring players to the next stage. There are only two ways to lose the game: if a player loses all their lives, or if all the survivors in the level are killed by the monsters.

There are 55 levels in the game and seven optional bonus levels to explore. The environments fit the horror movie mold, as you will see deserted neighborhoods, creepy castles, shopping malls, and pyramids. As you would expect, these levels are filled with monsters, each of which are themed after a B-grade horror movie villain. Players will encounter typical monsters such as zombies, Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, chainsaw men, homicidal dolls with axes, and giant sandworms.

The weapons and special items in the game are unconventional. Players start off with a water gun and eventually find such weapons as silverware, dishes, bazookas, weed whackers, and soda cans to build up their arsenal to fight the hoards of monsters. To help players along the way, there are special items such as first-aid kits, inflatable clowns, and Pandora's Box.

Zombies Ate My Neighbors is one of the best games from the 16-bit era and is still as great today. If you are looking for a solid title to add to your Virtual Console collection this one is highly recommended.

Review Policy

In our reviews, we'll try not to bore you with minutiae of a game. Instead, we'll outline what makes the game good or bad, and focus on telling you whether or not it is worth your time as opposed to what button makes you jump.

We use a five-star rating system with intervals of .5. Below is an outline of what each score generally means:


All games that receive this score are standout games in their genre. All players should seek a way to play this game. While the score doesn't equate to perfection, it's the best any game could conceivably do.


These are above-average games that most players should consider purchasing. Nearly everyone will enjoy the game and given the proper audience, some may even love these games.


This is our middle-of-the-road ranking. Titles that receive three stars may not make a strong impression on the reviewer in either direction. These games may have some faults and some strong points but they average out to be a modest title that is at least worthy of rental for most.


Games that are awarded two stars are below average titles. Good ideas may be present, but execution is poor and many issues hinder the experience.


Though functional, a game that receives this score has major issues. There are little to no redeeming qualities and should be avoided by nearly all players.


A game that gets this score is fundamentally broken and should be avoided by everyone.


 

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