Game Info
Developer: Sega Technical Institute / Publisher: Sega / Release Date: JP: 22/09/95, NA: 09/1995, EU: 12/1995, AU: 1996 / Format Reviewed: Sega Mega Drive / Other Formats: None / Players: 1
Aaahh!!! Real Monsters – A Classic Sega Mega Drive Gem
Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, developed by Realtime Associates and published by Viacom New Media, is a cult classic for the Sega Mega Drive that takes you on a quirky and spooky adventure. Released in 1995, this platformer is based on the popular animated TV series of the same name. Join Ickis, Krumm, and Oblina, three young monsters-in-training, as they navigate the treacherous world of scaring humans. Let’s delve into this nostalgic gem in this in-depth game review.
Aaahh!!! Real Monsters shines with its unique and whimsical storyline. Players step into the oversized shoes of three young monsters attending the Monster Academy. Their goal? To graduate as full-fledged scarers by venturing into the human world to collect screams. The game does a great job of capturing the essence of the TV series, with humor and wacky scenarios aplenty. However, the plot might feel somewhat thin to those unfamiliar with the show.
For a 16-bit game released in the mid-’90s, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters boasts decent graphics. The character sprites are well-drawn, and each monster has a distinct appearance that mirrors their TV counterparts. Environments are detailed, albeit a bit repetitive, with eerie settings that match the game’s theme. While it won’t rival the graphical prowess of later consoles, it successfully immerses you in the monsters’ world.
One area where Aaahh!!! Real Monsters excels is in its sound design. The game features a spooky and atmospheric soundtrack that complements the eerie atmosphere perfectly. The background music changes dynamically to suit different game situations, enhancing immersion. The sound effects are amusing and capture the comical essence of the show, from the squelchy noises of Krumm’s armpit-based abilities to the otherworldly shrieks of the monsters.
Gameplay in Aaahh!!! Real Monsters is a mixed bag. The platforming elements are solid, with responsive controls that make navigating the game’s challenging levels enjoyable. Each of the three monsters has unique abilities, adding variety to the gameplay. However, the game’s difficulty can be unforgiving at times, with some levels feeling frustratingly tough. Additionally, the camera can be a bit finicky, causing occasional visibility issues. But for those who appreciate a challenge, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters provides it.
Aaahh!!! Real Monsters offers moderate replayability. While the main campaign offers a fair amount of content, completionists may find replay value in collecting all the hidden items and secrets scattered throughout the game. The nostalgia factor could also draw players back for another playthrough. However, the lack of multiple endings or substantial unlockables limits its long-term appeal.
In conclusion, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters for the Sega Mega Drive is a fun and quirky platformer that successfully captures the spirit of the beloved TV series. It may not have the visual splendor of modern games, but it compensates with a unique storyline, fantastic sound design, and challenging gameplay. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its difficulty and limited replayability, fans of the show and retro gaming enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate this blast from the past. Dust off your Sega Mega Drive, and prepare for a spooky adventure with Ickis, Krumm, and Oblina.
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