Ghostbusters II

Ghostbusters II is a 1990 video game for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) based on the film of the same name. The game's history on the console is distinct due to licensing rights, resulting in two different versions. In the United States, Activision published a version developed by Imagineering. Meanwhile, HAL Laboratory released their own version titled New Ghostbusters II in Japan and Europe. While the Activision release was the only one available to American players on the NES, the global version has gained a reputation as a hidden gem among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Genre and Gameplay Mechanics

The Activision version of Ghostbusters II is categorized as a platformer and action game. However, the version developed by HAL Laboratory takes a different approach, functioning as an overhead shooter. In New Ghostbusters II, players select two characters from the main quartet—Egon, Peter, Ray, or the accountant Louise—with one playable character and one AI-controlled partner. The core gameplay loop involves stunning ghosts with a proton pack while the partner automatically positions themselves to throw a trap. This mechanic simplifies capturing ghosts, allowing players to focus on positioning and avoiding enemies. The game features various ghosts, including slimes and ninjas, as well as demons. Boss battles are present, characterized by high difficulty due to the lack of a life bar, requiring precise play.

Story and Setting

The game generally follows the plot of the movie. The central antagonist is an ancient warlord named Viggo, who attempts to resurrect himself using a baby as a medium. The Ghostbusters must stop him. The levels are composed of rooms with variable clutter, guiding the player through stages filled with enemies before culminating in boss fights. The slime enemies in the Game Boy version are noted for their unique visual design, with eyes appearing sewn shut.

Platform Availability

Ghostbusters II appears on multiple Nintendo platforms:

  • NES/Famicom (Activision): Released in the United States on April 1, 1990.
  • NES/Famicom (HAL): Released in Japan on December 26, 1990, and in Europe.
  • Game Boy (HAL): Released on October 16, 1990. This version is distinct from the console releases and is considered an ambitious standalone title.

Notable Features

  • Synthesized Music: The Activision release features synthesized versions of the film's main theme and the song "Higher and Higher".
  • Character Selection: The HAL version allows players to choose a fourth character, Louise, and relies on a smart AI to handle trap deployment, distinguishing it from earlier entries in the franchise.
  • Level Design: The game features large stages that guide the player, filled with clutter and enemies that cannot be accessed via the proton stream but can be trapped.

Who It Appeals To

Ghostbusters II appeals to fans of the 1980s film franchise and retro gaming enthusiasts. Players interested in platforming action will find the Activision version, while those seeking a strategic top-down shooter will appreciate the mechanics of New Ghostbusters II. The game is particularly relevant for collectors and players interested in the history of licensed games on the NES.