~ Magazine

For Video Game Enthusiasts!

Special Pigskin Preview: Just In Time For

Football Season A WM .

Gl’s Holiday Buyer’s Guide: Great Gamer Gift Ideas eo

\ Sega’s Super Season: Sonic 2 and

Sega CD Are Here!

Make Tracks — _ With a Cool ‘Cat. :

e. Life In The Fast Lan

RCE Roane pe Ps

Take It To The Streets...

CRASH: BOYS -

Crash” Cooney and his posse from Southside High secteatin's Crash Baciaaats anethas

own every sports record in Spring Hill history. 400M Hurt-les course record. Crash and the Legends? Heroes? Not in this town—where Todd Southside Boys—Cheese, Noise, Dragon and Thornley and all the rich snobs up on the Hill think Sting-Ray—put the Hillers to shame.

Southsiders are low-lifes.

So Todd and the silver-spoon mama’s boys at the three

“Hiller” schools have issued a desperate challenge to save their fading reps: Let’s take it to the streets in the Southside...no rules...no refs...no penalties—and we'll see who comes out in one piece.

P F . ; ‘np Todd Thornley forgets to let go and takes a And just in case the Hillers can’t handle Crash ‘N’ The sida to Harmar Thou Geli, His Weshicglon

Boys, Todd’s rich daddy has fielded Team Thornley—a High team has been humiliated by Crash ringer group of super-athletes from Thornley Industries. once too often. This time it’s personal.

Five radical events. Five motivated teams. Five members per team. Only one winner.

“Spreck” Spreckles, Jefferson High’s captain shows his lethal moves in the Water Slaughter. He thinks Lincoln and Washington are almost as bad as Southside. Almost.

Hot Sports Action For 1-4 Players!

Artie Van Smythe vaults from rooftop to

towering rooftop in the Skyline Scramble. Lincoln High’s team captain despises the Southsiders—especially Crash.

Suite 120, Cupertino, CA 95014.

TECHNOS’

AMERICAN TECHNOS Inc.™

, ‘Sr » ~“

Rocky Rockowitz makes use of the devastating super kick in the Judo event.

The elite, computer-controlled Team Thornley is out to crush Hillers and Southsiders alike.

&

Game Consultants & Reviewer Summations

GenCon Game Fair A Smorgasbord For RPG’ers

Dragon Warrior IV, A Review

The Jetsons, A Review

Bart’s Nightmare, A Review

Chester Cheetah “Too Cool to Fool,” A Review

Special Pigskin Preview Introduction

John Madden ‘93, A Review

G

ame

Super High Impact, A Review

Super Play Action Football, A Review

Atari’s NFL Football, A Review

Captain America & the Avengers, A Review

Special Holiday Buyer’s Guide For the Gamer on Your List

Shapeshifter, A Review

What’s Hot Rumors & News

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

By Elizabeth A. Olson

It’s Holiday time once again. That means the race is on for licensees to get their products on the shelves in time to take advantage of all those gift-giving dollars. And oh, what a Christmas this will be for gamers everywhere!

Sega promises to have more than one present under the tree this sea- son. Gamers have anxiously been awaiting November 24th, otherwise known as Sonic 2’sday, and the arrival of the Hedgehog’s sequel. This time he’s brought along a friend. And more than one high-tech videophile will be asking Santa for the new Sega CD ROM, due in stores this month. We'll take a look at these and other great gift ideas in our Holiday Buyer’s Guide.

If the change in seasons turns your thoughts to football, we have something special for all you arm- chair quarterbacks. Our Pigskin Preview features John Madden ‘93 and Super High Impact for the Genesis, Super Play Action and NFL Football for the Super Nintendo, and NFL for the Atari Lynx. Plus, take a peek at those gridiron titles still in development.

If battling dragons and saving the kingdom is your thing, role- players will be happy to see the latest from Enix, Dragon Warrior IV, and our coverage of the GenCon Game Fair.

The coolest cat in town is putting in an appearance on our cover. Chester Cheetah is here to introduce his new Too Cool Too Fool cartridge. But why take up space telling you about it here? Hurry and turn the page!

Informer Index

Tech Talk A Safer Way to Play

Andro Dunos, A Review

Fun Club Tip Line Strategies From Our Readers

Switchblade II, A Review

Sonic 2, A Preview Catch ‘em if You Can

Tazmania, A Review

Sega CD, The Future Has Arrived.

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10120 W. 76th Street Eden Prairie, MN 55344

WIPE THE SMILE

x

oO

Here’s your chance to wipe the smiles off those annoying happy faces once and for all! In FaceBall 2000, “Have a Nice Day” takes on a whole new meaning — in first-person perspective, with 3D graphics and 360° maneuvering!

And we mean into! FaceBall 2000 is a new virtual reality game for 1 to 4 players. You don’t just see your character, you ave your character! You'll feel like you're actually inside your Game Boy as you move through CyberScape’s more than

70 treacherous mazes —

or the Arena, in fast-paced rounds of high-tech combat.

OC ‘

Come face-to-face with a super-mess of enemies — in full color with amazing 3D graphics! Enter the CyberZone where you'll be surrounded by evil Smiloids lurking in an endless series of mazes. Defeat the Master Smiloid... or have a very bad day! Two-player split-screen action lets you battle it out in the Arena against a friend, or team up and face the evil Smiloids together. — ) FaceBall 2000 for the Super NES. Don’t miss it! Tease ep-or aay

one-on-one in the Arena.

Face evil Smiloids in CyberZone’s endless mazes.

wuiills di THE BEST GAMES IN THE WORLD” Se NTN Soule: Aa vo @ Bullet-Proof Software, Inc. ¢ 8337 154th Ave. N.E. ¢ Redmond, WA 98052 © (206) 861-9200 . :

Copyright ©1991, 1992 Xanth Software F/X, Inc. All rights reserved. Original game and design ©1987. Distributed under license from Xanth Software F/X, Inc. FaceBall 2000 is a trademark of Bullet-Proof Software, Inc. Nintendo, Super Nintendo Entertainment ” System, Super NES and Game Boy are trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc. ©1991 Nintendo of America Inc. Bullet-Proof Software f- is a registered trademark of Bullet-Proof Software, Inc. ©1991 Bullet-Proof Software, Inc.

This Issue's Reviews... The Bottom Line

How Game Informer Reviews Work...

Our game consultants rate each game on a scale from one to ten, ten being the best. Games are rated in the following areas: Concept, Graphics/Animation, Sound, Playability and Overall Entertainment Value. Specific details can be found within each review (see the page numbers listed below).

REVIEWERS' SCORES G.I. LICENSEE SYSTEM PAGE #} ANDY ROSS RICK

@ 4

Dear Game Informer: A

I’d like to say what a great maga- zine you have. I’ve seen and read other video game magazines and yours is by far the best. | especially liked your Summer issue on RPG’Ss.

Kyle Henry Rocky Point, NC

Thanks, Kyle! We think our maga- zine is pretty great too! If you enjoy RPG’s, check out the Dragon Warrior IV review and the article on GenCon found in this issue. We’ve got another action packed issue for you this time with our Football Feature—Pigskin Preview.

-Ed

| love Desert Strike for Genesis, it’s the best game I’ve ever played on any system. | have the Genesis and am looking for similar games with the same kind of playing aspect. | need your recommendation on a game or games that | can purchase with a lot of action and excitement, but with a little relief in between. | bought Outrun based on the article in the Game Informer and was not disappointed, but it is very action-packed with no breaks in between. Robert Lazich Wisconsin Rapids, WI

We agree that Desert Strike is a great cart (Summer ‘92 issue), and part of what makes it so good is that it is original in its gameplay. Look in our Christmas Buyer’s Guide for LHX Attack Chopper, new from Electronic Arts, for the Genesis. It has a similar gameplay structure. We were unable to think of another hot cart that alter- nates between hard-hitting action and a slower mode. Readers, want to help us out?

-Ed.

At the present time, Marvel comics are hotter than ever! | read nearly every title from Marvel, so nat- urally | was pleased when | walked into an arcade and saw three of my

favorite comics transformed into coin-ops; Spiderman, The X-Men, and Captain America and the Avengers . | was instantly hooked and spent about $10.00 on each game. Game Informer is the only magazine that gives top-quality information, so | came to you for a possible answer. Is there any hope of seeing any or all of these coin- ops released on the Sega Genesis System? Derrick Campbell Savannah, GA

Derrick, we have some good news and some not-so-good news. Captain America and the Avengers is due out from Data East for the Genesis around Thanksgiving. Check out the review in this issue. Acclaim is busy at work on Spiderman & X-Men for SNES, Spiderman: Return of the Sinister 6 for NES and The Amazing Spiderman 2 for Game Boy, all due out soon. However, Acclaim is doing more cross-over development with their popular titles, so these may see Sega yet.

-Ed.

| think you have one of the best mags around because you have reviewers that know what they are talking about and don’t down the Nintendo just because it is 8-Bit. | think we should remember that the NES was the major factor in the revitalization of the video game industry, and | know technology is ever-expanding, but | will always be loyal to the old NES. Great maga- zine, keep up the good work.

Tim Coombs South Paris, ME

Tim, many members of our staff share your sentiment and will remain as loyal to their Nintendo as their Atari and Colecovision. Thanks for your letter.

®

-Ed.

Magazine November/December Issue 1992

Richard A. Cihak Publisher

Elizabeth A. Olson Executive Editor

Kimberley Thompson Benike Editorial Consultant Production Manager

Kerry Cousineau Art Director

Andrew McNamara Editorial Assistant

Paul Anderson Rick Petzoldt Andy McNamara Ross Van Der Schaegen Video Game Consultants

Gail Carlson Production

Thomas Blustin Production Intern

Andrew Lunstad Contributing Writer

Chris Grun Debra Johnson Illustrators

Advertising Sales Walter Baumgartner Richard S. Cegielski National Advertising Sales Directors 144 Oak Court Barrington, IL 60010 (708) 381-8770

Bob Rosen Colin Campbell Janet Kleinman East Coast Sales Representatives Kalish, Quigley & Rosen, Inc. 850 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10019 (212) 399-9500

Tony Sureau & Associates Northwest Coast Sales Representatives 11531 197th Southeast Snohomish, WA 98290 (206) 668-7978

R.C. Bublitz & Associates Southwest Coast Sales Representatives 22247 Burbank Boulevard Woodland hills, CA 91367 (818) 992-0366

The Game Informer Magazine is published bi-monthly by Sunrise Publications, 10120 W. 76th Street, Eden Prairie, MN 55344. (612) 946-7245 or FAX (612) 946-7250. Second Class Postage Pending from this and additional mailing offices.

The Editor welcomes company product information for all video games. Such materials should be addressed to: Editor, Game Informer lg ey 10120 W. 76th Street, Eden Prairie, MN 55344. Editorial phone and FAX num- bers are noted above. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned or acknowledged.

Products named in these pages are trade names, or trademarks, of their respective companies.

Fora fopy of Game Informer Magazine, please call Gary Gillem at our Circulation Department (612) 946-7245.

BPA Membership Applied for September 1992

By Andrew Lunstad

If you happen to see a kid on your block wearing a “Don’t Mess with a Minotaur” or “Cthulhu ‘92” t- shirt, ask him if he’s heard of the GenCon Game Fair. The chances are good you'll get a resounding “Yes!” This is because he’s probably been playing role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons™ or The Call of Cthulhu for some time, and dreams of one day attending GenCon, the Mecca for serious gamers.

For years, role-playing games have given kids like this a chance to lose

-

themselves in their own unconven- tional worlds of lasers and magic. The drawback was that most games of this genre had thick rule books and took hours to play, which is a little more time and effort than most people are willing to invest in a game.

However, the technology of home entertainment has grown by leaps and bounds since TSR shipped its first copy of The Dungeon Master’s Guide. Now, role-playing games are available for most personal comput- ers and home entertainment systems. In this form, the computer or video system takes care of the tedious details, leaving the fun and adventure for the player. Role-playing games have crossed over into the main- stream once dominated by arcade and action entertainment.

The GenCon Game Fair has grown with these changes and attracts software manufactures like Origin Systems and Microprose to its halls. Game Fair attendees now have the option of playing the role of a knight questing for the Holy Grail in the morning, checking out the latest 3D-helicopter simulation game at lunch, and sampling John Madden’s Football ‘93 in the afternoon. Nevertheless, even a schedule ambitious as this would leave the majority of the fair’s other attractions un-tested.

This year at GenCon, several national gaming networks showed off their latest systems. Gaming network systems allow folks with a computer and a modem to dial into the network and explore computer-gen- erated worlds, part- nered with or pitted against other computer

users across the country. Instead of being limited to bat- tling computer opponents, gamers in the network have the opportu- nity to match wits with a flesh- and-blood adversary.

Authors of various popular Science Fiction and Fantasy books are a common sight at GenCon. They are seldom too busy to refuse to auto- graph a copy of their latest book, and will gladly point you to the Fair gallery where the original cover art from their book is on display.

A big first for GenCon this year was the appearance of Sega of America. This marks the first time ever that a major manufacturer of home game systems participated in the Game Fair. And judging from the enthusiastic attendance at their booth, it will most likely not be the last. The popularity of their booth was largely due to the six Genesis and two Game Gear systems that were set up for the public to play.

Each year GenCon offers some- thing new and exciting for its atten- dees. I’ve been to several Game Fairs and have never been disappointed. Although | would hesitate to recom- mend the Fair to anyone with no interest in role-playing games, the introduction of electronic games to the show makes it worthwhile for even the casual RPGer. The GenCon Game Fair takes up a four-day week- end, from Thursday to Sunday, in August. It is held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and costs $30 to $40 for all four days, not including accommo- dation. Observer ticket prices run approximately half as much. It’s money well-spent, if you enjoy games. So if you’re looking for something to do next August, I’II see you there.

We

THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN.

S b

Craving An Adventure? Try Dragon Warrior IV For Your NES

o ¢

The days are grow- ing shorter and one week slips into another. That little chill in the air has turned into a deep freeze and the snow is no longer a novelty. Work and school have become routine and there’s no thrill in the new fall line- up. Sounds like you could use an exciting adventure.

Funny, that’s just what Dragon Warrior IV has in store. This install- ment of the Dragon Warrior series reads like a collection of adventure stories, running together in the final chapter for the ultimate quest. Each of the first four chapters in this leg- end revolves around its own cast of characters and its own adventure. The fifth chapter brings all of these heroes together under your leader- ship to track and destroy the demon that has dogged each character on their previous quest.

Dragon Warrior IV takes place in a world composed of four conti- nents, each containing mountain chains, deep valleys, rivers and expanses of water. Chapter One begins in Burland, where tragedy has struck. Children throughout the kingdom have been disap- pearing. As Captain of the Royal Soldiers, Ragner sets forth to the land of Izmit in search of Loch Tower and the missing children.

Chapter Two takes you to the Kingdom of Santeem, where you'll

find a frustrated Princess Alena. She yearns to leave the protective walls of her father’s castle in search of excite- ment, but the strong-willed King will have no part of it. Our resourceful Princess plans her escape and begins her adventure through the dangers of the outlying regions. Alena’s strength

and intelligence will

guide her

way through Surene to

Endor, as she proves to be a capable adventuress.

Chapter Four introduces Taloon, an ambitious arms merchant. He dreams of becoming his own boss, but cannot afford his own shop. He

sure.

leaves his wife and children in the village of Lakanabe to find or earn a great fortune. Taloon may successfully seek his fortune, but the King may not grant him a shop permit. Coming to the aid of Endor’s unhappy Prince may sway the King’s decision.

The sisters of Monbaraba are the heroes of Chapter Four. Their father, Loro, was a famous blacksmith who died suddenly of mysterious causes. Nara, a fortune-teller, and Mara, a dancer, have vowed to uncover the cause of their father’s tragic demise. Their search for answers leads them to Kievs, Keelon and beyond.

The fifth and final chapter brings these Chosen Ones together through a twist of fate. They will aid our hero, you, as you face the evil demon. The gossip of the townspeople may come

Se ERSTE ESE ese TES SSP TER ASE SS SAT FSET

Nw Pana

SELL

| Concept: 6

| Graphics

Fesbity: 8

Entertainment — og 9

ier Rating: 9

DiS SANS SORE

Dragon Warrior IV Review

and a finale where the warriors from each oo & Animation: oh the graphics were very good as NES RPGs go; lots

: : _of wasted effort. The challenge was definitely there, as playing without caution or planning will cause

mens ue

Reviewed by Rick, The ee Ranger

Dragon Warrior lV has an excellent story line with four different chapters featuring different heroes, ©

join in battle to overcome the ultimate Selle.

of colors, scenery and detail.

The sound effects were above average and ! liked /

the music. The menu was easy to access. If you watch for

clues, such as an "E” next to the characters when ~ purchasing weapons or armor, you could save alot

you to die several times.

Dragon Warrior 1V ranks with the best 8-bit RPGs. The storyline drew me in, the graphics were easy __ on the eyes, and the gameplay features kept it from :

getting boring or too repetitive.

frustrating at times, but more often prove to be helpful. The Explorer’s Handbook will provide the necessary clues about your weapons, uncon- trollables, and the land you are about to embark upon. But only you can determine the story’s outcome.

in handy. You’ll encounter several uncontrollable characters that join your party just for fun. They can be

ay

Reviewed by Ross, The Rebel Gamer

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Warrior IV Review

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indo RPGers have at least _ g farrior carts. The saga contin-_ ues oy Dragon Warrior IV.

pecan it, the Spphics hina editio you ne a oe thing, ©

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enough to ge yous w iere you need to se a with- out reall telling ia what to do.

‘than a ie hours playing watching Rick cy and as!

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“Meet George Jetson...” A Space-Age Hero For Your Game Boy

» ©

Somewhere in TV-land, just thirty minutes into the future, lives your average space-age family. But some- thing is about to threaten the peace among the stars. George was hard at work, supervising the Button Pusher Division of Spacely Sprockets, when the robots and computers began to malfunction. “How do you stop this crazy thing?!” Spacely’s sure to fire you for this one. That is unless you can find the source of the problem and fix it first.

The Jetsons Review

Concept: 8

Graphics & Animation: 8

Sound: 6

Playability: 7

Entertainment Value: 9

Overall Rating: 7.5

Making one of my favorite cartoon families into a game Cart is not something new. The way Taito incorporates the use of Jane, Judy, Elroy or George is what makes this cart cool.

| was impressed by the graphics for this game. All the characters move well; they are crisp and well defined. Not bad for the Game Boy.

The music and sound had no real impact on me. It was just the basic booms and blips.

You must make use of the extra equipment given to the family to get anywhere. | had no problem getting the hang of this one, but it was challenging enough to hold my interest.

The variety of play and character choices make The Jetsons a great Game Boy cart. The levels are challenging and, by making them a bit like mazes, the game rises above most carts of this style.

Just then, Jane calls from the Shopping Mall in a panic. It seems that robots are running rampant through the shops. Elroy reports the same news from the Space Ball Stadium and Judy’s cry for help from the Rock Concert confirms it. “Rut- row, ‘reorge.” This problem is bigger than we thought, so you'll have to work fast!

Taito has brought the whole fam- ily together in this adventure. You start in three pre-stages through

Reviewed by Paul, The Pro Gamer

the Mall, Stadium and Concert Hall. Lead Elroy, Judy and Jane through these areas, collecting items that will help George in the main four stages of the game. He must first get his fam- ily to safety. Finally, he must make his way through the Cogswell Cogs factory to discover the cause of this trouble and put an end to this indus- trial espionage.

Each family member has their own special weapons and items nec- essary to get through their level. Elroy must reach the Stadium roof with the help of only his ball and exploding boxes located throughout the level. Judy can use her Magnetic Boots to

Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

The icons Review

Elro

climb on the walls and ceilings, avoiding dangerous spiked areas. Her jet-powered skateboard will help her out of a jam and boxes become her weapon. Jane makes short work of the Shopping Mall with the help of her Jetpack, boxes and Space Car. All of the characters begin with three lives and three continues. You can store up to ten hearts at a time, but when they run out, you lose a life. Hidden along the way are energy capsules that will restore one heart. Energy tanks will restore all of your

caiiedeieaiaaliais (The Jetsons Review

Concept: io

Sound: 6 Playability: 7

Entertainment

Value: 6.5

| & Animation: 8

| Sound:

| Playability: 9

eS NON PEPLOMNRERETRPERHNIP OMPN IRENINOON PELHAM

Meet the Jetsons...they’re all here. The Jetsons is a creative video game that uses the different family members, giving them each unique abilities.

You'll find clean, nicely detailed graphics and var- ied, smooth animation.

Typical background music.

Don’t fly or jump too high or too low, or you are in trouble. Precise control is neccesary and provides a more challenging than usual game. __

The Jetsons is a better than average game. However, | found myself getting tired of it

| Concept: 8 __ The Jetsons is your basic Mario-type, action/adven- ture game. However, it does have some new things that make it interesting and a cut above most Game Boy games. | Graphics

8.25

Entertainment

Value: 8.75

u Overall Rating: 8.25

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hearts and heart containers will increase your possible number of hearts by one. Special items are rep- resented by diamond symbols. Collect ten of these for an extra life. The Jetsons will find three types of boxes; those that explode upon impact, those that explode after bouncing three times and bomb boxes. You'll also find doors that lead you along the main route, to

Reviewed by Rick, The Video Ranger

quickly. | think with the cartoon quality graphics and animation available on Genesis these days, | would have really liked to see The Jetsons on the

big screen.

\ Overall Rating: 7 <“icu

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Straight from the cartoon; this game has good back- grounds and fun characters.

Yes, it has the theme song we all know by heart.

Involving all the characters makes the game more interesting to play. Play one level with Elroy; the next level with Judy. Each character has their own power-ups, so mixing up the order keeps it interesting.

The Jetsons is unavoidably a fun game.The chal- lenge falls smack in the middle of the spectrum; perfect for the younger or older player.

another level or into secret rooms and passages.

The Jetsons is both an entertain- ing and challenging adventure for players of all ages and abilities. The great theme music and familiar char- acters make this a perfect choice when you want to get lost in space.

Bart’s Nightmare is a Dream Come True For Simpsons Fans

>

He’s back and this time he’s on your Super Nintendo. Bart’s deter- mined to finish his studying and, like many of us faced with the boredom of homework, he dozed off right in the middle of it. But this was not going to be one of those restful sleeps. Bart begins to dream that a gust of wind has swept his papers out the window. Oh, Man! He’ll have to go after them or he’s sure to fail, con- demned to the fourth grade forever.

Like most dreams, Bart’s Nightmare is filled with many of the people in his life, different scenarios, and weird imagery. Bart begins by chasing his homework through the busy streets of Windy World. Collect “Z's” along the way or Bart will grad- ually wake up to academic disaster. Try anything to get through Windy World, like splatting characters with your bubble gum, spitting watermel- on seeds, or changing shape. Hey! This is a dream, remember? If he’s successful, he’s transported to a series of doors. Each door leads to another adventure, more strange than the last.

One door takes you to the world of “Bartzilla: Crusher of Cities, Master of Motorists.” Bart is transformed into a huge lizard beast. He must stomp his way through the city, destroying everything in his path. Spit great fire- balls and shoot lasers

from your eyes without getting massa- cred by the puny jets and tanks. Another door leads to “The Temple of Maggie” located in the darkest corner of the Springfield Rain Forest. Our famous homework hunter, Idaho Simpson, must brave the temple’s ancient walls and crumbling floors. Holy caped crusader, Bart-man! The next Worldly World finds our hero aiming his high powered slingshot at the missiles and paper airplanes in his path.

Those lovable cartoon characters, Itchy and Scratchy put in a guest appearance in the fourth world. They’re up to their usual slapstick

a ——

antics, only this time they’re after final page of your homework, but asleep as long as you can. Gather the you. Finally, you find yourself in you’re not alone. There are two lethal missing pages before you wake and Bart’s Bloodstream. Try to capture the _ viruses, British Tommy Virus and Von _ you'll graduate with flying colors.

Got-U Virus, floating through your

plasma ready to wage a major war.

You'll have to catch some “Z's” in &y

order to achieve that “A”, so stay ©

Bart ic Voyage’ when iia Las ineny aa bloodstream.

a

Chester Cheetah Here, And This Happenin’ Cat is “Too Cool

To Fool” ®

If Chester feels a need for speed, grab up a pair of high tops and burn a bit of rubber. Snag some shades for an x-ray view, and a closer look at some hidden goodies. And like every cool dude, Chester can keep the beat. Latch on to the electric guitar to jam out some killer tunes, and | do mean killer. Chester becomes temporarily invincible when he’s in the groove.

Once you've uncovered your wheels, move on to the next level for a real swinging time. There’s more than a little monkey business going on. Chester bumps into possums, boxing kangaroos, and a laughing hyena on a rampage. A pesky primate makes the going a little tougher as you swing through the tree tops in search of your gas tank. Level Three takes you on an island adventure, as

STEELE Reviewed by Ross, The Rebel Gamer

He’s a cool kitty from the heart of Hip City, but lately life’s been a bit of a bummer. It seems Mean Eugene, the zoo keeper, has been holding Chester captive. Squaresville! But in order to make tracks, you’ve got to help Chester piece together the parts of his motorcycle and put on some speed. Kaneko brings this fun-loving feline to Super Nintendo. Mean Eugene and his pug-ugly pooch are out on patrol, and if Chester is going to split the scene he must get past a host of other obstacles. Bypass roller- skating turtles and cool caterpillars in shades while collecting power paws and extra lives. And when the zoo keeper is closing in, disappear into the city sewers. They’re full of extra paws and other treats, but watch out for things that lurk in the dark.

Chester Cheetah Review

Concept: 10

It's not easy being cheesy, but Chester finds a way to survive. This is one cool cat.

Graphics & Animation: 9

The graphics give you the feeling of watching a car- toon. The only drawback is the slow down and slight flicker you'll experience from too many sprites in the screen.

Sound: 7 The sound is good; | like it when Chester gets

clocked and goes “AIE-AIE-AIEE.”

There’s not a whole bunch of movements to choose from; not too many buttons to push and, overall, it’s easy to catch on to this cart.

Playability: 9

Entertainment Value: 10 | loved Chester. | just wish this would have come

out earlier.

Overall Rating: 9

Chester side-steps fish, crabs and other crustaceans. This can be a real water hazard if Chester’s not light on his paws. Tip toe across hungry sharks and precarious docks while avoiding an aerial attack of hot air balloons. Reach the speedboat and make some waves as you race Eugene to the shore. Find the handle- bars and it’s on to Level Four.

It’s time to do a little spelunking. Vicious vampire bats and heavy metal porcupines are hot on your trail as you make your way through the dark and twisting caverns. Splat! You get smacked in the face by a baby bat...and then another. What a drag! But being the chillin’ cat that you are, you shake it off and make your way to the mine shaft. This coal car is one crazy ride, but watch out for stalactites or you'll be seeing stars.

Chester proves he can keep his cool under pressure. The wacky ani- mation will keep you in stitches; it’s worth losing a life just to see him geek out when he gets hit. “Aei-aei- aei!” If you’re a cool dude in a loose mood that’s search- ing for an

| Concept:

Graphics & Animation: Sound:

Playability:

Entertainment Value:

Overall Rating:

Chester Cheetah Review

Concept: 8

moves at a relaxed pace.

Graphics

& Animation: 8.5

Sound: 8.5

Playability: 8

could be sped up a little.

Entertainment

Value: 8.5

Overall Rating: 8.25

(Chester Cheetah Review

Chester Cheetah reminds me of Toejam &

Farl...really mellow. Chester travels armed with weapons such as Sunglasses and Sneakers. The only weak point is that, like TJ & Earl, the game

The levels look almost picturesque. The jungle scene is filled with neon colors to create the most ideal place that you could imagine for Chester to be. His enemies are a crazy bunch themselves.

The music is cool, not quite the music | would have expected for Chester, but cool just the same.

Control is solid, but could have been better. Additions of being able to move through the dimensions of the game or when he climbs ropes

Chester is cool cat with a hip game. A little slow but challenging and entertaining.

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Reviewed by Paul, The Pro Gamer

7 Creating a game from a well-known cartoon char- acter? No way! But it couldn’t have happened to a better cat. Chester Cheetah’s smooth, cool antics are here for the SNES. It’s nothing too original but hey, Chester is way cool for a cheetah.

9 Chester and his foes are “drawn” to perfection. It looks like you’re watching the commercial.

8 Just as you’d imagine, there are some hilarious sounds thrown in, such as when Chester shakes his head or jams on the guitar.

7 Maneuvering Chester through the various screens poses a few minor problems. It moves at a slower pace but remember that Chester is a laid back dude, so he takes his time.

8 Chester's Too Cool To Fool is full of crazy charac- ters and hilarious actions. | found it to be a game that doesn’t stress you out, it just makes you laugh along with the action.

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adventure with more than its share of fun, grab up a copy of Chester’s Too Cool To Fool. But SNES fans won't be the only ones laughing; a Genesis version is already in the works.

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Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

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Super Adventure Island

Editor’s Choice Gold Winner from Electronic Gaming monthly ¢ Spectacular Graphics Combined with incredible music

* Power-up feature transforms hero into wild skateboarder

¢ Weapons include: stone axes, boomerangs and fireballs

Adventure Island 3

* Combat a mysterious invasion of primitive Adventure Island

* Explore eight gigantic islands on your guest to save Jeannie Jungle * New dinosaurs and weapons are included to defend Master Higgins ¢ Uncover secret bonus zones and hidden items for extra power

Adventure Island

¢ Master Higgins goes portable in this classic South Pacific game * Crack open treasure eggs for massive points or handy shortcuts ¢ Hunt through bizarre islands filled with sneaky killer traps

* Dodge snakes, bats and more as you search for your lost friend

Super Adventure Island, Adventure Island 3, Adventure Island, Bonk’s Adventure, Bomberman II are trademarks of Hudson Soft USA, Inc. ©1992 Hudson Soft USA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Hudson Soft is a registered trademark of Hudson Soft Co., Ltd. Felix

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Felix the Cat

For play on the Nintendo Entertainment System

¢ Journey through nine levels of intense animated adventure * Felix’s Magic Bag of Tricks Provides dozens of helpful items ¢ Features many character’s from Felix’s zany cartoon series

¢ Enter hidden Magic Bags for super bonuses and power-ups

Bonk’s Adventure For play on the Game Boy System

¢ Classic video game character now available for the GAME BOY ¢ All-new transformations and power-ups for our cave boy hero * Do flying head-spins and Pile-driver moves to “bonk” bad guys ¢ Multiple challenges in the special trial areas for extra points

Bomberman II For play on the Nintendo Entertainment System

¢« New power items and poison skulls highlight the excitement ¢ Features include options for 2 or 3-Player simultaneous play ¢ Build up bigger and better bombs to blow away the enemies * Over 50 levels of incredibly bombastic heroics in 1-Player mode

the Cat is a registered trademark of Felix the Cat Productions, Inc. Nintendo, Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Gameboy and the Official Seals are registered trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc.

HUDSON GROUP

HUDSON SOFT

HUDSON SOFT USA, INC.

400 Oyster Point Blvd. Suite 515 South San Francisco, CA 94080 Tel (415) 871-8895

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It’s Sunday afternoon. You're kicked back watching the game. You've got your favorite high school jersey on, a bowl of popcorn, some chips and dip, and a tall cool one at your side. Does life get any better than this? But wait, this game is getting good. Somebody better do something soon or it will go into overtime. And hey, you dropped a fiver on an outside chance the Vikes would win this one. The clock’s about to run down and you're at the edge of your seat...

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“The game is tied 27 to 27. The

a the Eagles’ 40..It’s third ar long with the clock running. Under a minute left in the game. Cunningham takes the snap, looks left and is flushed out of the pocket. He scrambles right, pumps, and tries threading a pass to Barnett. Scott, with uncanny speed, lunges in front of the ball. INTERCEPTION! He regains his balance and accelerates to the thirty-five...the twenty... the fifteen... TOUCHDOWN!"

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Ya, Baby, this guy’s jive, and I’m just trying to stay alive. I’m on the run for some real fun. Being in Four Corners Zoo, there’s not much to do. So, if | don’t blow, Mean Eugene, the Zoo Keepin’ Fiend will steal the show. But when we scram, we'll be on the lam. Problem is, | need my bike and it is not where | like. The parts are hidden somewhere in the zoo.

| need you to find them too. Then, me and the boys can hit the road, cause life in a zoo just got old. Take it from me, “You Gotta Be Free!” It's not cool to be treated like a fool. So help me out. Grab a bag of Cheetos now and get a $5.00 rebate on my run for fun. Chester Cheetah is my name and “Too Cool To Fool” is the rule for today’s hippest adventure game. Brought to you by Kaneko USA, where the fun is never done!

Licensed by Sega Enterprises Ltd. for play on the SEGA GENESIS SYSTEM. SEGA and GENESIS are trademarks of Sega Enterprises Ltd.

Hey Dude, get a load of this! Get A Life! This “Mean When Chester looses his cool Eugene, the Zoo Keepin’ he geeks out. What a Cat! Fiend” just won't give up.

ci MRS al ONE et Rte Sar FW hana a alii ey ill: pg a licen ig et Multi-levels of play, special Ya Baby, this is an adventure graphics and effects don’t get you just don’t want to miss. much cooler than this!

Kaneko USA, Ltd.

1370 Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 I< q\ Nn —<O y Phone (708) 808-1370 Fax (708) 808-1375 | . o La ia

CHESTER CHEETAH and the character are registered trademarks of Recot, Inc. under license by Kaneko USA, Ltd.

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John Madden ‘93 Review _ Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

Concept: 9 There is nothing like playing good video foot- ball...all football season.

Graphics

& Animation: At first glance, J. Madden ‘93 looks the same. Improvements in appearance would have been nice, but I'm not complaining.

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With additions of voice-overs from the man him- self, this game becomes humorous. J. Madden 93 has included all his clichés.

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‘the Niner’s. | Playability: With the injection of some realism, passing is not | ddition is the | as easy as before. Interceptions are more common- eight Legendary Football teams: the | place. So stick to the ground, and there you will 17 and 0 Miami team of ‘72, and the find improvements in control and the ability to 84 San Francisco team that Montana | keep the defense off-balance. R and Craig made s. The | Entertainment 7p Names are still missing, Dut | Value: Considering a better defense, a harder computer «ther ners are nere; yOu H be sur- / opponent, and the injection of stats, this game is a p leap forward from the last. The two things it still lacks are the players’ names and a multi-player season, but | guess that’s for J. Madden ‘94,

defense and hitting the open man. (92. sequel,.you.could hit.aguyi

Super High Impact Review Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

Concept: 8 Football is always a great concept, and to bring this arcade monster to a decent home system is what we all have been waiting for.

Graphics

& Animation: The animation in this game is excellent. This cart brings the beauty and pain of this sport home. From unbelievable diving catches to spine splitting tack- les, this game has what the others have missed.

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Sound: Using digitized voice-overs makes a game more entertaining to play. Add high intensity music and we've got ourselves one killer sounding game.

Playability: Super High Impact doesn’t have the largest number of plays, the best receiving, or most realistic foot- ball ever; that is not what this game represents. It does have the fastest-paced, finger-pumping brawl to hit video games in a while.

Entertainment This game is a blast. As a one-player, it has three different difficulties and a good challenge. As a two-player, the game shines.

Tir : Vi 1 _ 0 : e us é ckbuster. blast. The offense control is easy; all ugh out this brutal

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Get ready for the hottest sports games this side of the major leagues. Feel the heat of Roger “The Rocket” Clemens with realistic over-the-shoulder fielding and interactive close-up plays. Get ready to rumble as George Foreman and show the world the power of a Big George Super Punch! Take it to the hoop with 27 NBA’ All-Stars in the most intense one-on-one b-ball action! Tackle Super High Impact for all the bone-crunching football excitement of the arcade

smash! When you're tired of watching from the sidelines...it's time to Play with the Pros!

Fr a [Petkewne ase Vs

A Division of Acclaim Entertainment, Inc.

All NBA and Team Insignias depicted are the properties of the respective NBA Teams and NBA Properties, Inc. and may not be reproduced without written consent of NBA Properties, Inc. Nintendo®, Super Nintendo Entertainment System" and the official seals are registered trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc. © 1992 Nintendo of America inc. Super High Impact™ © 1991, 1992. Licensed from and trademark of Midway® Manufacturing Company. Roger Clemens’ MVP Baseball™ , Super All-Star Challenge 2™ and LJN* are trademarks of LUN, Ltd. © 1992 LUN, Ltd. All rights reserved. Arena™ is a trademark of Arena Entertainment © 1992 Arena Entertainment. All rights reserved. George Foreman’s KO Boxing™ and Acclaim" are trademarks of Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. © 1992 Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

Super Play Action Football: Three Grueling Gridiron

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; Look back through the scrap- Nintendo has made it possible to line and the quarters are now fifteen _ books of the great football players of _ take that journey down memory lane minutes each. There is an expanded today and it’s a good bet you'll finda once again. Or, for younger players, play book with 24 offensiv photographic journey to work. their-way through high _ twelve defensive plays. In additic that follows school, college and oor alee more Oe Bay the object of arian pectin oe Super Ranioadad is aa aa ei epee we and ‘lee designed to do just that. them to the National Championship. Select High School play and pit A tougher schedule increases. your your hometown against a rival team chance at a higher ranking...f, your in their actual school colors. The team performs well, you may be invit- basic rules are the same as regular ed to participate in a Bowl game. High School league play, with a 100 Choose your Bowl game me it yard field and a kick-off from the _ will effect the final ranking dramati- forty yard line. The game consists of cally, and thus will determine the four twelve minute quarters. Championship outcome. 7 College play gets a little more If playing Pro ball i is your ultimate asd NY . The-kick-off-has: been. dream, Super Play. has the pushed back to the thirty-five yard. too, This time your wala a iuinas

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them from : - ads their first set of shoulder . .. . . _ _ in community athletic associa- tions, through junior high and high ool, into college and on to the FM And it’s not just the hard-core football fans that fondly remember the rivalry of their high school OMmecoming Bame ¢ or rthe pride ino

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Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

8 | will always like football, so that concept can never go wrong. The newest idea in this game is holding the Lynx longways so you can see more of the field and action.

Graphics

& Animation: The graphics are good, but the animation is slow. I’m not a big fan of the overhead view either but, overall, it does have it’s merits.

Digitized voices call the major happenings of the game. There is no real music or effects, but great voice-overs.

Playability: This one’s tough. | liked the passing, because you actually have to do something besides push a but- ton. However, | think it needs to be revised a tad.

Entertainment

Value: This game reminds me of the old Mattel football game; the one with the LCD’s that myself and half my friends played. It has the same kind of play; good competition from the computer and a sparse selection of plays

tb is I gee fo punting win the addition of a direction meter

may need to age the clock when time is running out. Atari’s NFL Football has everything you'll find in

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Attitude’took for it’ December 18th ~ advantages, 28 actual teams and a and, if you’re lucky, you may even _ large play book. There are Mode 7 ‘ , : ‘ : easy ‘ e d !

Amazing feats

and adventure lurk around every street corner in this incredibly exciting game for 1 or 2 players.

Earth-shaking visuals, huge challenges, and a story you can Top arcade game brings explosive action right to you. Special really sink your teeth into. effects & two-player simultaneous action.

Save the Universe from the evil Bydo Empire. Features non-stop Tee-off with skins— winner-takes-all on every hole or match action and a variety of challenges. play— combines different styles.

; = Here's how it works! FEM 1 Buy any two of these games: DinoCity, Super R-Type,

The lrem Skins Game, GunForce, or Street Combat. IREM AMERICA CORP

2 Cut out the UPC code from your boxes. lrem America Corporation i ; 8335 154th Avenue N.E.

3 Fill-out the form, cut at dotted lines, then put form and Redmond, WA 98052

UPC codes in an envelope mailed to this address. =_=S~ FAX: (206) 883-8038

Please hand print in ink

Name Address City

State Zip Phone(___)

Shirt size: Sm LJ Med. J Lg. LI xi. LY

Check which 2 games you purchased: J DinoCity (J GunForce (J The Irem Skins Game [J Super R-Type (_] Street Combat Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Offer expires 4/15/93.

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Avengers Assemble! Captain America Battles ® His Way to Your Genesis

World War II was a time when evil threatened to take over the world; a wicked force more powerful than anyone dared imagine. Hitler’s greed for power was matched only by his charisma; he had a knack for enlisting both brain and brawn to help his cause. Even someone as unlikely as a hotel bellboy could fall victim to his charm. Such was the case with Red Skull, a power-hungry villain nurtured by the Furor himself.

But while Red Skull was evolv- ing, sO was a young American named Steve Rogers. This patriotic illustrator was trained as a “Super Soldier”; a one-man army known as Captain America...

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Captain America and Red Skull face if each other once again i in this arcade cross- over from Data East. This time the Captain is joined by several of the Avengers in his crusade against Red Skull’s league of arch-villains. Players can become Ironman, the lightning- welding weapons’ inventor encased in a special steel armor. Fight as Vision, the artificial being whose power comes from a solar laser placed in his forehead. Battle as Hawkeye, the skilled marksman and archer with supernatural vision. Or, take on the enemies with the shield-throwing skill of Captain America himself.

This one or two-player game pits you against a team of enemies all under the mind control of Red Skull. Their mission is to keep you occu- pied by taking over towns while Red Skull secures a secret base on the moon. This base houses a giant laser

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cannon capable of destroying the entire planet. You'll face increasingly powerful villains such as Whirlwind and the sickle-wielding Grim Reaper. Watch out for the unstoppable robot,

Ultron, and the deadly grip of Mandarin.

Along the way you'll get a little help from your friends. There are guest appearances by the Wasp,

Wonder Man, Quicksilver and the Submariner. Captain America and the Avengers takes you through six

action-packed stages. Players may select a different Avenger each time they continue, allowing you to take advantage of their separate skills in a given stage of the game.

The visuals and voice-overs of the sound effects, such as “Blam!” and “Plew!”, really make this seem like an interactive comic book. Seeing these classic Marvel charac- ters brought to life may spark a bit of nostalgia in older players, while newer gamers may feel the urge to hit their local comic shop. Whichever the case, the Avengers are an exciting choice of heroes that will leave you anxious for more.

Sega Genesis

Sega’s 16-bit machine has much to offer. It has a 68000 CPU that runs at 7.5 MHz, and is capable of 64 colors on screen simultaneously. That’s the same CPU found in many home computers, allowing for great com- puter translations. The Genesis currently has the second largest game library and was the first to enter 16-bit mar- ket. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $99.95 and $129.95

TurboGrafx-16

TurboGrafx is the American version of the popular Japanese PC Engine, one of the best selling units in Japan. It offers an extensive library and five-player capabilities. While its main processor is a souped up 8-Bit, it has great graphics, awesome game play, and the ability to go portable with the TurboExpress. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $69.99

Hardware

Holiday Buyer’s Guide

Nintendo Entertainment System

This 8-bit deck has the largest game library of any sys- tem. The cartridges are reasonably priced, easy to find, and the deck price has also dropped since the introduction of the 16-bit. If you’re a gamer on a budget or new to video games, you’ll love the Nintendo. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $69.95 to $179.95

Super Nintendo

This newest addition to the 16-bit market has built-in scrolling and rotation features, as well as the largest color palette and display. The unit runs at a sluggish 3.5 MHz, but most slow down has already been conquered by pro- gramming. With a recently lowered price and a rapidly growing library, it’s one to watch. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $99.95 and $149.95

Sega Game Gear

This 8-bit portable offers a color screen and a growing library, including many crossovers of popular Genesis titles. With accessories like a TV tuner and the converter for the older Master System games, it’s possibly the most versatile of the hand held machines. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $99.95 and $129.95

Atari Lynx

The Lynx is the only hand held unit with scaling and rotation capabilities. It incorporates a 15 MHz processor and an extensive color palette. This 16-bit portable is probably the most powerful of all the hand helds. The cartridge selection is increasing rapidly and includes a number of great games. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $99.99 and $129.99

Turbo Duo

This machine integrates the TurboGrafx-16 and the Turbo CD-ROM drive in one unit; the American version of the PC Engine Duo. If you’re going Turbo, go all the way. The upgrade to the new system makes for less access time, better graphics, and comes packaged with five games. It comes with Ninja Spirit and a two-disc set that includes Bonk’s Adventure, Bonk’s Revenge, Y’s: Books | & Il, and Gate of Thunder. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $299.00

Neo*Geo

NeoeGeo comes straight from the Multi Video System and arcades into your home. Its huge cartridges and 24-bit technology make for some great gaming. But this size comes with a price. If you’re a gaming faithful and have the means, the Neo®Geo is quite a machine. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $649.95

Holiday Buyer’s Guide gF

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Nintendo’s Game Boy

Game Boy was the first portable and has a good hold on the market. Its biggest drawback is the black and white LCD screen, which can be hard on the eyes during extended play. However, it has a large selection of games and is the least expensive of the hand helds. It is boxed with Tetris. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $79.95

Sega CD

This is a peripheral for the Genesis, not a complete game unit. However, the cost rivals the investment of a complete system. This CD drive adds scaling and rotation to the Genesis and upgrades the processing speed to a respectable 12 MHz. CD ROM technology is incredible and has to be seen to be believed. It’s packaged with Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective, Sol Feace, a clas- sics CD, a music CD and a CD+G graphic/music sampler. Available Nov. 8, ‘92. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $299.00

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AsciiPad SG Asciiware - Sega Genesis

Ascii has now designed their high-performance con- troller for the Sega Genesis system. The turbo control enhances all firing buttons with 24 shots per second. The independent turbo button offers continuous firing, while the slow motion will aid gamers of all skill levels. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $24.95

Game Genie Lewis Galoob Toys - Nintendo, Genesis, Game Boy, SNES

This game enhancer fits onto your existing game car- tridges and adjusts the way the program is read by the game system. Game Genie breathes new life into games by giving game characters attributes such as super powers and infinite lives. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $79.95

AsciiPad SN Asciiware - Super Nintendo

This joypad is a must for those fast action shooter games. It features an independent turbo control that fires twenty shots per second. It also includes an auto-turbo that frees up your hands and a slow down characteristic that slows down the action while you master difficult maneuvers. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $39.95

Capcom Power Fighter Joystick Capcom - Nintendo, Super Nintendo

This controller is designed to allow for freedom of movement to perform more complicated maneuvers like those in Street Fighter II. It includes a joystick, turbo and programmable features, and additional buttons. A cordless adapter will be sold separately. This controller is compati- ble with both the 8-bit Nintendo and the 16-bit Super NES systems. Available Dec. '92. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $75.00

Sega’s Menacer Sega of America - Sega Genesis

This is a versatile light gun comprised of three mod- ules: The Master Module, the Stabilizer Module or arm piece, and the Binocular Module. Assemble these pieces along with an optional Accu-sight cursor and you have several ways to use the gun. The Menacer runs on batter- ies, features an adjustable range and an automatic shut- off. It is packaged with a six-in-one cartridge which includes Space Station Defender; Front Line; Ready, Aim, Tomatoes; Whackball; Pest Control and Rockman’s Zone. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $59.95

Super Nintendo’s- Super Scope Nintendo of America - Super Nintendo

This light gun for the Super Nintendo system uses infra-red technology to add a new dimension to your game play. The shoulder-mount cordless controller lets you shoot from anywhere in the room, enhancing the action and realism of the game. The Super Scope is pack- aged with a six-in one game cartridge that includes LazerBlazer, Confront, Engage, Mole Patrol and two ver-

sions of Blastris. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price:

$59.99

Super Advantage Asciiware - Super Nintendo

The Super Advantage comes to you from the same manufacturers as the popular NES Advantage. This arcade-style joystick features an eight-way directional stick, as well as adjustable and automatic turbo feature that fires up to thirty-five shots per second. A variable speed slow motion function makes this a versatile con- troller for the SNES. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

Holiday Buyer’s Guide

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Power Clutch Asciiware - Sega Genesis

This is an arcade-style competition joystick that enhances playability for both beginner and veteran gamers. It features a fully adjustable and automatic turbo feature that offers increased firepower of 28 shots per sec- ond. It also includes a slow motion control that makes high paced sequences more playable. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $39.95

_ SUPER NINTENDO

Super Nintendo Mouse/Mario Paint Nintendo of America - Super Nintendo

This powerful peripheral adds a whole new dimen- sion to your Super Nintendo. It comes packaged with Mario Paint, a graphic arts-style program. The mouse enables players to create drawings, animate their own cartoons and compose their own music. But this is just the beginning. Several Super NES games, such as Role- Play style games are under development that will be enhanced by the use with the mouse. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $59.99

F-117A Stealth Fighter Microprose - Nintendo

Here’s the PC hit shrunk down for the NES. F-117A features numerous missions and a battery back-up to hold your progress. Do battle in a tournament or a two- player joint effort. In the one-player mode, complete mis- sions with primary targets and a secondary target in the event you miss the first. Great flying for the NES. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $N/A

Trolls American Video Entertainment - Nintendo

They’re back and they are everywhere! Grandpa troll once told Samantha and Norbert stories of an island rid- dled with treasures. They’ve stumbled upon the mysteri- ous island and are out to seek their fortune. There are 32 different mazes, including a game Edit feature that lets you design your own puzzles. Enjoy single, double or team- work play. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $N/A

Nintendo

Linus Spacehead bee Camerica - Nintendo sce,

nate

Linus has returned to his home planet, Linoleum, but no one believes his stories of his adventure on Earth. He must return to get proof, but he has no money and a smashed Cosmic Stingray 5.0. Help him return to Earth and back to Linoleum in this half arcade, half adventure style game. There are several sub- games hidden along the way. Play in French, English, German or Spanish. Available Nov. ’92. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $44.99

Young Indiana Jones Chronicles Jaleco - Nintendo

The hot, new television series comes to Nintendo. Follow a teenage Indy as he helps put a stop to Pancho Villa in the Mexican Revolution; as he follows the Claw to Egypt to recover an artifact known as the Jackal; and as he travels France and Germany to help out in the Great War. There are four adventures divided into several scenes each. Available Feb.’93. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $N/A

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Mindscape - Sega Genesis

This PC smash sparkles on the Genesis. Experience old-style arcade action mixed with a touch of adventure. Work your way through mazes, conquer puzzles and blast enemies. Unbelievable graphics and mind-numbing game play make this cart solid. GODS includes a default, so if you can’t solve a puzzle, a power-up allows you to bypass that puzzle. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $49.95 (Also available for Super NES)

Bio Hazard Battle Sega of America - Sega Genesis

It’s been said that insects will someday rule the world; in Bio Hazard Battle they already do. Select one of four ships, each with their own weapon selection. Blast your way through levels full of sharp Polygon graphics. The two-player simultaneous action makes this an incredible Genesis cart. Available Nov. ‘93. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $49.99

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LHX Attack Chopper Electronic Arts - Sega Genesis

Add another flying cart to your EA Air Force. Fly the LHX or Apache helicopter through simulated missions in this 8 Meg monster. Choose between a variety of game play perspectives. Loaded with a Sidewinder, Hellfire Missiles, and the standard 20mm chain gun, you can blast enemies out of the air in this PC cross-over. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

Steel Talons Tengen - Sega Genesis

Pilot an AT1196 Steel Talon helicopter in this popular arcade title. Avoid enemy fire and mountain tops as you take out targets with your machine guns, guided, and unguided missiles. There is a training mode to get you started and more missions become avail- able as you gain experience. Unlike Atari’s Lynx version, this format features a two-player mode. Select between two views: cockpit and above-craft. Available now Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $54.95

Aerobiz Koei - Super Nintendo

This four-player strategy lets you become a major mogul in the world of air transportation. Connect the world via your airlines. Balance advertising, merchandis- ing, service and repair budgets while trying to beat the competition and avoid bankruptcy. Select from two time periods; the 1960's and present day. Available Jan. ’93. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $74.95

Blazeon Atlus - Super Nintendo

Your weapon allows you to take over the form of your enemies. This fast-paced shooter gives you different ships and weapons to work with throughout the entire game. Atlus does a great job in pro- ducing one of their first SNES carts. Available Nov. ’93. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $59.99

Super Nintendo

Axelay Konami - Super Nintendo

Axelay is a prime example of what Mode 7 effects can do for games; incredible graphics with both forward and side-scrolling action. A strange alien presence has come to Earth and you are the planet’s last hope with your high-powered airship, Axelay. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $55.00 - $60.00

Cal Ripken Jr. Baseball

Mindscape - Super Nintendo

This new baseball cartridge is spectacular. The game play is very realistic. It lacks real players, but it compen- sates by using artificial names and statistics. It has animat- ed sequences for close plays, three ball parks, and post game stats. Another winner for the SNES. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $64.95 (Also available for Sega Genesis)

Cybernator Konami - Super Nintendo

You are in the front line Marine Corps in this futuristic action game. Armed only with the Assault Suit, you battle through special mis- sions to save the Earth’s limited fossil fuel supply. This cart features great one player-action with incredible graphics, game play, and animation. Available Jan. ‘93. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $55.00 - $60.00

Super Star Wars JVC/LucasArts Games -

Super Nintendo

JVC and LucasArts push the Super Nintendo to its limits in their first SNES cart. Play as Luke Skywalker, Hans Solo or Chewbacca in this movie-based action cart. Enjoy first-person flying and fighting mixed with side-scrolling adventure in fourteen high-energy levels. Parts of the actual movie score and sound effects make up an incredible soundtrack. Available Nov.’92. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $59.00

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Holiday Buyer’s Guide “gf

Faceball 2000 BulletProof - Super Nintendo

This year’s run-away Game Boy hit finds its way to the SNES. Not only does that mean all those smiley faces are now brightly colored, but the mazes are placed in a variety of interesting settings. Play alone or as a team through the 41 levels of CyberZone, or have a free-for-all game of tag in the Arena mode. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $59.95

X-Zone Kemco - Super Nintendo

Here’s the first third party Super Scope game, and it’s a winner. Kemco incor- porates a cursor so you don’t have to use the bulky eye- piece. Drop the scope to your hip and take aim for lots of high speed shooting action. If you have a Super Scope, you need X-Zone. Available Dec.‘92. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $42.95

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Baseball Hero Atari - Atari Lynx

It’s the bottom of the

ninth; two out, two on, and two

strikes. The batter steps up; the catcher gives the

sign. The pitcher nods and blazes one down the pipe for

Strike three. Baseball Hero has four games; Home Run

Derby for practice, Three Flies Out to hone catching

skills, Exhibition and a Final Series. Choose from four

teams and pick your fielders and pitchers. Get ready for

intense first-person perspective baseball. Batting is

viewed right through catchers mask and pitching is even

better; straight out of the majors. Power up your Lynx

with baseball to realistic to believe. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

Bart vs. The Juggernauts Acclaim - Game Boy

The Juggernauts TV show is coming to Springfield and their willing to humiliate anyone fool enough to take them on in in this fierce sporting competition. Battle your favorite Juggernauts like Extra Chunky and Muscle-eena in four weeks of wacky combat. Events range from Dr. Marvin Monroes’ “Hop,Skip & Fry”, the “Nuclear Power Plant Bop ‘till You Drop”, Captain Murdock’s “Skateboard Cash & Crash”, and the “Krustyland Hammer Slammer.” Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $29.95

Shadow of the Beast | Atari - Atari Lynx

Long ago the Beast

Lord conquered the world and banished all light. But a child was born into this darkness with the prophecy to defeat him and restore the light. The Beast transformed the child into a dark demon, but the time has come to face your destiny. This one-player fantasy PC crossover sets you on a journey in search of the Beast Lord. Collect weapons, keys and magical items that will help you defeat him, regain your natural form and restore the light. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 .

Miner 2049er Mindscape - Game Boy

Here comes an

old friend from the Atari and

ColecoVision days. Mindscape brings the leg-

endary mountie, Bounty Bob back in his search for

Yukon Yohan through an abandon Uranium mine. This

classic puzzle game has a single player exploring each

level or mine shaft. Pick up treasure and locate secret

warps while trying to beat the clock and avoid the explo-

sives. Available now. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.95

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WHY PUN THIS. IYOUCHN PLAY THIS

You’ve seen it all before. The short, squat, stubby cartoon-like players. The overhead view. The awkward feel. You've probably even asked your- self: Is this the best a 16-bit home video tennis game can be? With all that power available, do these games have to wind up looking only Slightly better than an 8-bit cart? Of course not. Check out Amazing Tennis™'— the revolutionary tennis video game that blows all the

others right off the court! Everything your 16-bit machine's capable of is right ¥%

up there on the screen: 22 planes of depth, motion-picture-quality animation, i

precision-play controls, full shot selection, an on-the-court view. And you can mts

choose from a roster of 15 ranked opponents in 1-player mode, play an = BO ree

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entire tournament, or go head-to-head against a friend! 7 So don t waste your time hacking with amateurs. In Amazing Tennis, Feat eee pees you're playing at full potential! eee js ‘hal ($4 00 handling charge for each

For 7 or 2 players, on your Super Nintendo Entertainment System” or Sega™ Genes Gee. aaplieabié foWark a ournase Featuring the digitized voice of world-famous chair umpire Frank Hammond! of Amazing Tennis. Ask the opera-

tor for details. Offer may be with-

Designed by David Crane. drawn at any time )

Catch pane em Pponent at the and arc a winning lob! =

Put one away with the

Time your serve for maximum overhead smash!

isplays eed! The radar gun disp a service velocity!

ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM “ ‘4 Actual Genesis screens may vary.

Published by Absolute Entertainment, Inc., P.O. Box 116, Glen Rock, NJ 07452. Amazing Tennis is a trademark of Absolute Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved. Absolute Entertainment is a registered trademark of Absolute Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved. Nintendo, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and the Official Seals are trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc. ©1992 Nintendo of America Inc. Sega and Genesis are trademarks of Sega Enterprises Ltd. ©1992 Absolute Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

Charge the het and slice @ Winner!

KATE Wilh ‘GREATS.

Nobody can hold a stick to em these guys: ‘Ih Messier Coffey, Kum, Linden, WN Savard, and the 544 other

guys who play hockey at the highest level The @ deadliest marksmen, the enforcers, the brightest stars of the pro game.

Theyre all captured in . NHLPA” 93. The official

_ game of the National Hockey

' League Players Association” _ The all-new version of the most _ action-packed hockey game ever. Last year NHL’ Hockey was the yo-selling Genesis” sports title. This signers deliver even more explosive game play. rs. The complete, accurate team rosters from the 1992 season. a and Tampa Bay expansion rosters. finest the sport has to offer With more new pro moves than you can shake a stick at. cs Faster tougher to beat goalies who leave the crease to clear loose pucks, or lunge and dive to smother shots. Individualized moves, like glass-breaking slap shots, nimble stick action, and brutal body checks. Each player skating his own unique game. _Hot new defensive techniques 2d an improved computer ponent raise the fectnicity in ‘power play Situations.

Ifyou are under 18, be sure to get fo dr ee

are scorers like Larmer

* Goalies like Belfour Intimidators like “Probert and Gaetz a a a ae Each of the 550 pros :

rated on 14 charactenistics based on 1992 playing stats.

Some Of th€ ell _pros are better ee en defensemen, other. S SCOMNG "=~ lunging, and kick machines, others oe saves. So get the are specialists = é wt puck outta here.

Your goalienow _ makes diving,

at killing off a

opponents’ power plays | Ifthese guys dont stop you We i = | Siocae

in your tracks, the refs will. , ic

Calling you for tripping, hooking,

cross-checking, offsides, interference, or icing. The more severe the penalty, the longer youre in the sin bin. There are even injunes that can knock you out for the game.

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“4 ose on of the most Popular teams n the game, * &

Talk about a game with impact. EASNS Ron Barr Score with the names oor tee game. Personalized moves include Doug is all over the ice NHLPA '93 is the only Wilson's cannon-like slap shot. like a Zamboni® place you'll find all 550 pros.

For the first time ever battery back-up lets you make the greatest saves outside of your goalie. Save lines you create. Even player stats for the entire post-season tournament.

The coverage of EASN," the Electronic Arts Sports Network, lets nothing slide. Spectacular camera angles. Sportscaster Ron Barr The exclusive crowd Noise-O-Meter" Highlights from other playoff games. Instant replay. Commentary.

Stick with the pros: NHLPA’93 and the Electronic ArtS SiR eerescrernecnecsnenee Sports Network. Skate over to your local EA dealer or

ea order by phone anytime: (800) 245-4525.

~ ANU HOCKEY py And get the greatest hockey game by oho eee a long shot.

The all-new Super NES" am PELectaonic Anrs | versioniscoming soon. f-—> Psronts Network]

by Sega Enterprises Ltd. for play o: ga Enterprises Ltd. NHLPA, National Hockey League Players’ Association, and the logo of the NHLPA are registered trademarks of i og NHLPA and are us alc in the United States and Canada. Nin tendo? Super Nintendo Entertainment System? and Super NES™ and the official 95 cents for first minute, seals are the trademarks o} endo tional Hockey League. All rights reserved. 75 cents for each additional minute.

>

TurboGrafx Shows Off

Its Super CD

With Shapeshifter

The land of Krellion was once a beautiful and peaceful place. This peace was maintained by the Ring of Five, an alliance of five powerful wiz- ards that kept harmony in balance and protected Kremlin from the evil lurching just beyond its boundaries. Then one day the ancient prophecies began to come true. Everyone thought they were just myths created to scare and entertain. Until the rivers began to turn black, a cold wind blew across the land and the Ring of Five vanished.

Three evil beings of the Shadow Realm, known only as the Dark Ones, have captured the Ring of Five and hidden them away in the dark

‘ Shapeshifter Review -

Concept: 8.5

corners of Krellion. The Dark Ones have conquered many of the lands around you and now they are prepar- ing to invade your homeland at the Summer Equinox. You, the fear- less warrior Lykos are the only one that can save your land and its people; for you hold powers locked deep within that have yet to reveal themselves.

It is your destiny to go forth and rescue the five wizards. As you find them, you will unlock the magic that enables you to change form. Inside are the forms of the Black Panther who stalks the night; the Psionic Shark with his incredible senses and responses; the mighty Rock Troll and

Reviewed by Andy, The Game Hombré

Shapeshifter has many good ideas. Mixing the

voice from the CD into the game always adds a great dimension. Changing into multiple animal forms works well, too. But somehow it doesn’t mesh together smoothly.

Graphics & Animation: 9

The introduction to the game has some super

graphics. The game also has multi-scrolling in the action scenes.

Sound: 95 Playability: 70

Entertainment Value: 8

_ Overall Rating: 8.5

Every CD game has great sound. The music fit well with each scene, which adds to the fun and excitement of the game.

Lykos was choppy in movement; not too bad, but enough to where you noticed. | think the game could have used a bigger RPG edge to the story, thus adding more for you to do.

The 3.0 System card really makes a difference in access time. If you have a TG-16 CD player, get the new card and you'll the love the things it does for the games.

the awe-inspiring Gold Dragon. All these beings lie waiting to be unleashed if you have the necessary amount of gem power; hence the name Shapeshifter. However, your transformation time is limited to three minutes unless you have gathered more gems.

Lykos begins his quest after meet- ing with the Chancellor of Krellion. He must rescue the East Woods from a terrible infestation of spiders. He will be handsomely rewarded if he survives. There are several shops located within the city: an armory, a magic shop, a healer, and a fortune teller. All of them provide you helpful services for a price. Use your gold to purchase higher level weapons or armor. You may also place magic spells upon them to increase their power. There are three levels of strength for each weapon. If you have enough gold, you can heal wounds by buying hearts or visit the fortune teller to see the future.

Like any good Shapeshifter, the moon has a powerful effect on you. An eclipse occurs every ten minutes or so that will fully recharge Lykos’ hearts and magic timer. There is no

password option or level

| Shapeshifter Review : Reviewed by Rick, The Video Ranger

Concept: 8 A medieval kingdom is being terrorized by giant spiders and you must rid them of this menace. When you return victorious, you are rewarded, but only to find that spiders were just a foreshadowing of the real evil soon to come.

Graphics & Animation = 8.5 Large characters, cleanly detailed and superbly animated are found throughout the screen. My only complaint is that your enemies look better than your main character. Sound: 8.5 Real voice conversations between you and your allies makes the game much more personal. | Playability: 8 The interface for conversation and purchases is >» very easy to use. The weapons handle well, except for enemies attacking below the belt, which | requires using your feet. | Entertainment | Value: 9 Shapeshifter is an action/adventure with the right

degree of role-play thrown in. The real voice con- versations draw you into the game and the story line makes it hard to put down.

Overall Rating: 8.5

snatrctionis

lion em - further in

Return to Krel

| Shapeshifter Review Reviewed by Ross, The Rebel Gamer

Concept: 8 This is a RPG for the PC Engine Duo and the new | Turbo Duo, Lykos, the main character, must leave the city, but first he must solve many quests.

oma Graphics _ | : save Krellio & Animation: 7 The CD capability should have surfaced more dur- ing the action sequences. When it did surface in still shots, it was extraordinary. select, so you will just have to be a_ | S@tind: 9 It's a CD laser disc. | would have been disappoint- persistent warrior. However, there is ____ ed if the sound wasn't incredible. a save feature. A mission is complete whenever you have located a wizard. | Playability: 8 Shapeshifter is not a three or four hour game! It You will need to collect all five in may take some people ten hours or more just to get order to defeat the Dark Ones. anywhere. Entertainment &o Value: 7 Playing Shapeshifter was a food time. | enjoyed it

and everyone who played it found something they liked about it.

\ Overall Rating: 7.75

What’s Hot:

Rumors and News From the Video Game Industry

The More the Merrier

Hudson Soft has announced their plans to release Bomberman II, the sequel to the popular Nintendo title, Bomberman. While that news alone is enough to make many gamers stand up and cheer, the big news is that Super Bomberman will be designed for four players. Wait! You say there isn’t a four-player adapter for the Super NES? Hudson Soft is currently hard at work on a five-play- er link for the Super Nintendo that will be released in conjunction with Super Bomberman. It is expected to be available by Spring ‘93. We’ll pass along more details as we hear them.

TTI Releases the Super System Card for the TurboGrafix-16

Turbo Technologies, Inc., announced the release of the new Super System™ Card, an add-on upgrade that adapts the TurboGrafix-16 Entertainment Super System to work with the CD- ROM. The Super System Card increases the RAM memory capacity of the TurboGrafix from 64kBytes to

COMPATIBLE

©

256kBytes, enabling it to play the new Super CD games that are pro- duced for the new Turbo Duo.

The Super System Card carries a suggested retail price of $65. Customers may purchase the Super System Card packaged with $50 worth of coupons and TT1’s first Super CD, which includes Bonk’s Adventure, Bonk’s Revenge, and Gate of Thunder, for $95. The Super System Card will not be available in stores. However, it will be available this December from Turbo Technologies by calling the following toll free number: 1-800-366-0136.

Every Kid Has to Have Their “Toys”

What do most kids ask Santa to bring them?...toys. This year Absolute is happy to serve as Santa’s helper. They are busy programming the video game based on the new movie, Toys, due out this holiday season. The movie stars Robin Williams and is being produced by Barry Marrow, of

(CONTAOL

counsetor 1-800-800-7135 HomTuNeE

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Rainman fame. The game is designed for the Sega Genesis system and should hit the stores late ‘92 or early ‘93.

The Battletoads Leap to Genesis

Tradewest has announced their plans to begin developing cartridges for Sega’s systems. The move was made to meet the demand of Tradewest customers. “All game players should have access to our games regardless what hardware system they support,” Byron Cook, President of Tradewest, commented.

The first title they have planned is Battletoads. Zits, Rash and Pimple will be hitting shelves in their new format this month, along with racing cart, Championship Pro-Am.

Green guy fans should watch for their animated television special, air- ing on Thanksgiving weekend.

Tech Talk:

The Latest on Video Game Hardware & Software

>

The latest new craze in the video game industry is accessories that have been designed with the health of your thumbs in mind. Several products have recently appeared on the market that claim to combat “Thumb-itis”, or sore thumbs, blisters and even carpel-tunnel that may result from extended game play. Several manufacturers go so far as to claim that such “finger-friendly” accessories will help gamers play longer and achieve higher scores. Are these claims accurate? The jury is still out, but we’d love to hear opin- ions from any readers who have tried these and other such products.

Triax Controls Introduces a “Touch Sensitive” Joypad That’s Easy on the Thumbs

Triax Controls, a New York based company, introduces what they con- sider to be the “controller technology of the 90s.” They are the developers of a new touch sensitive controller that was developed to improve game play, provide superior control and is

CONTHAOL

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“suaranteed to generate higher scores or your money back.” The Turbo Touch 360 is based on Triax’s unique application of capacitor technology, the same concept found in many ele- vator control buttons. Unlike most other joypads that have a cross- shaped directional control, the Turbo Touch 360 features an octagonal plate that reacts to a simple touch. Players only have to touch or slide their thumb to points on the plate. The result is fewer blisters and less chance of thumb fatigue or soreness. A second benefit of the Turbo Touch 360 is superior directional control. The movement is said to be noticeably faster and diagonal move- ment easier, which leads to improved game play and higher scores. Triax is so confident of this, they’re offering customers their money back if they don’t achieve higher scores after thir- ty days with the controller. The Turbo touch 360 is available for Sega’s Genesis and Master systems, the Super Nintendo and the Nintendo Entertainment system. Suggested retail prices range from $25 to $35.

Video Game Gloves Make the Perfect Stocking Stuffer

Champion Gloves, the company famous for athletic equipment, has entered the growing video game industry with gloves designed for the sport of gaming. If the average gamer plays one hour per day, they will press the buttons an estimated 40,000 times per week. Yowie! Video Game Gloves are made of leather and fea- ture padded thumbs to cushion the hands during extended or high inten- sity video game playing sessions. In addition to cutting down blisters and sore thumbs, buttons can be pressed more quickly and with less effort, allowing players to reach higher game levels. Video Game Gloves are available in a variety of cool styles, black and four neon colors, for a sug- gested retail price of $14.99.

&

Here’s a neat trick you can do only with GAMEHANDLER GS. To add new challenge to Revenge of Shinobi from Sega, try to beat the game running backwards. All you have to do is tip the nose of your GAMEHANDLER GS controller upside-down. Now Musashi the Ninja runs

3021 Bethel Rd. #208 Columbus, Ohio 43220

backwards and must stop momentarily to fire his weapon. See how good you really are.

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MORE SECRETS AND TRICKS YOU CAN DO... ONLY WITH

GAMERANDLER GS*4

Here’s a cool trick for Saint Sword from Taito. Again, only with the GAMEHANDLER GS controller you can make Macress as Birdman Hyperwarp — actually disappear and reappear around the screen. We're still learning more about this trick, but if you push your button and flick your wrist quickly you can escape the bad guys and actually go through walls and barriers.

Hey! Come back here!

“Make Macress As Birdman Disappear!” sain sword

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Andro Dunos:

Neo*Geo Captures The Power of The Universe

During the war with the aliens, a fallen enemy aircraft has been recov- ered. Its power source is a substance unknown to man. This infinite power generator draws its energy from the power of the universe.

—

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Our engineers use this power source to create a new genera- tion of spacecraft; the greatest weapon of the day. Unfortunately, our limited understanding of this new power allowed only two aircraft to be constructed before the alien war heat- ed up once again.

These two aircraft must play an important role if we are to have any hope of defeating the enemy. Only two pilots have the skill and the courage to complete this life or death mission. You have been selected to break through the aliens’ line of defense and destroy their main con- trol center.

Andro Dunos can be played as a one or two-player simultaneous game. Fly in to battle either as Yellow Cherry or Red Fox. And a second player can join the game at any time. The object is to warp and destroy the enemy’s central territory. You'll battle through seven dangerous war zones on the way to their central control. You'll attack and destroy the enemy’s moon base, engage in a full-scale,

anized dogfight, and journey to a large alien

planet. Players may select from four levels of difficulty: easy, normal, diffi- cult and the intermediate mode of MVS. There are four ways to set up your attack and players can change to any one of these four attacks at any time during the game. Type One is the Front Priority attack where your weapons rotate around the front of your craft. Type Two is called the Back Priority, due to its weak frontal attack. Type Three is known as the Omni because it gives you strong striking power but weak armor in the front and back. Finally, Type Four is

Fly thy Ou 72 this Bi 9-SOur, e 7 IS c

Setting,

the Front Widecover, which is the best type of attack for beginners. Pick your favorite from four different weapons. Your fighter is armed with shots, bombs, missiles and units. Each of these can be powered up several levels when you pick up Power-up icons. However, a weapon will lose a level each time your fight- er is shot down. In addition, the ‘A’ button gives you special recharge- able weapons ranging from Monster Shots to an Electric Force Field.

Bonus items appear at random. Thanks to Neo*Geo’s phenomenal graphics, sound and size capabilities, Andro Dunos has all the excitement of an arcade smash. If shooter-style games are your thing, this one is cer- tainly worth a look.

D

51

CROSSED SWORDS - NEOe GEO

| have a great tip for Crossed Swords on the NeoGeo to get unlimited continues instead of just two. You must have two NeoeGeo controllers. First, start with controller one. Play until you die. Then quickly press start on controller two and let player one run out. Do the same with the second con- troller. As long as you just die once, then switch controllers, you will never run out of con- tinues. This only works on the home version.

IS a Chance everything. G Corner of the everyone in t Climb the ¢, éround, bet

of Bloody Wolf die

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Matthew Wilfong know Where there Fonsultants Jamestown, NY Koa a, see if yoy 2 ° second (Hint: level g) an find it,

Justin Ho Oakville, Mo

Super Mario World - SNES

>

This isn’t a tip as much as it is a little nostalgia. When in the Special Stages, before you choose a stage, wait for a few minutes. Hear that? Sound familiar? Of course it does! It’s the original Mario Bros. music. Sounds a lot

better in stereo!

Adam Rotmil Damariscotta, ME

3

NINJA GAIDE SHADOW.

Agee sia press and Hold hes ell Irection (U,D,R,L) Jason E.Gorman

Madison, AL

8 BATMAN RETURNS - LYNX

On Level 1 when you come to the big red box with a green bow, jump on top and then jump back to get the acid. Then let the three motorcycle gang members leave the pack- age. If you enter the empty box, your life bar will be increased and you will receive ten batarangs. The next power up on Level 1 is just past the bat signs in the street. When you see the street lamps, make sure you stop at the 2nd, 5th, and 6th lamp to receive your bonus. You might have a prob- lem with the bomb blast. It’s easy to avoid, just duck behind the mailbox. Good luck. Charles Stone

Philadelphia, PA

after you lose, push the A Button and the opposite team

If you hate losing the coin toss, will kick to you.

SUPER BOWL - NES

Blain Waddell Clay Springs, AZ

TECMO

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where and you

iques - NY Leas IMKP | HE s Turtle Village- aig: ty Sand Marrow- BE NOMOC TECMO BOW! Southwood- PNGL CUD : some fun cove . _ Brookhill- ae San ve i she Tecmo wl North Valley- DINGO NPMP Washi BEAS. To : ae fone Falkevitz Denve es ™ East Hartford, CFBEF7AO- pov eng

GAM ill take you any- will already have for that village:

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6° [0 the | Mega ted fOr the CONTRA Ill -SNES ——Sllece th eSkul Man’ 2, jus In Contra Ill you can increase oe Save th hree Ene, age and the number of players to the is, this tage EL Vou, oY lanks limit, with this little procedure. © boss a afte ” returp In Level 3, just after you defeat Set tha @ Srea beat

the long-legged robot that fol- lows you up the wall, there is a spaceship. Make sure you have the regular weapon. As soon as you see him coming, go to the far left side of the screen. Shoot across the screen and you will destroy every enemy he throws at you while you sit safely in the corner. The trick here is to take something small, maybe a Certs (with retsin) and tape it to the controller. It takes about two minutes for each extra guy.

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Take this chance to go outside POlawes; — e aes Su0 Yydeq and play some hoops. Then se aweu mea. IW “Azziq come back and play Contra, U8IH ay} jag ae "81096 but with a lot of guys. 40} dit yeaug pe oe Jason Flatt SIN y Ip ysnf | Camas, WA MVHIy IJ

SUPER BATTLETANK - SNES

To make quick work out of your enemies, choose the 62mm machine guns and fire them at the enemy. When you score a hit quickly pause the game. If the enemy is flashing red, your shots will continue to pummel him. Un-pause; the enemy is destroyed and you’re on your way.

Armen Berjikly

West Hills, CA

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PSYCHIC WORLD - GAME GEAR

To get to the Sound Test and Stage Select in this great game simply press and hold Up and Left, and buttons 1 and 2. Then press start. Do this at the stan- dard title screen. Michael Lauzon Oakville, Ontario

Stay Ahead Of The Game!

Subscribe to Game Informer... The hottest new video game magazine around.

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Do RPG games emphasize boredom instead of excitement? OR do you feel action games work your FINGERS, not your MIND?

Get the Best of Both Worlds

Intense action and graphics combined with a From the people who brought you ActRaiser.

mind-bending storyline sure to challenge all the above. @ No wonder EGM declared, “If you combine Zelda and ActRaiser (two of the best), you will get SoulBlazer.”

ENIX AMERICA Licensed for play on the

CORPORATION SUPER NINTENDO.

ENIX

Switchblade II:

Havoc Seeks Revenge in This Sequel for the Lynx

ie

More than two hundred years ago a young warrior named Hiro ended the reign of the evil ruler, Havok. As a reward for his valor and bravery, he was granted a long and youthful life. However, as a result of this, he has lived to see the return of his arch enemy, Havok. Now Hiro sees that long life was not his gift at all, but the wish of his enemy...for Havok has come back. And, he's seeking revenge.

Back from retirement, Hiro must once again defeat his arch enemy. Hiro is stronger than ever, and this time he has plenty of help. Hiro must survive or Havok shall rule the world once again and destroy everything Hiro has come to know.

Hiro battles through six stages; each consisting of four separate areas. To be victorious, Hiro must use his mind as well as his strength. He is armed with the switchblade, a small but cumbersome weapon. Throughout his journey, you will have the option of different weapons. Some you will find while others must be

bought at shops scattered throughout the land. The first weapon you will come across is the Plasma Gun. It is a useful weapon, but requires ammu- nition, as do all the additional weapons. However, through conser- vation and exploration, you should find a fair amount of spare ammo on every level.

The shops contain various items, some that are useful and others which are not. The shopkeeper sells information as well as weapons, though he tells you nothing you can’t figure out on your own. The items bought and sold in the shops are piv- otal to your survival and the comple- tion of your quest. The weapons list includes Napalm, a short range weapon that packs a punch. Another

smart weapon selection is the Missile; a sure fire way to cause trouble when they home in right on target. But they are expensive. The more standard- ized weapons are the Beam and the Spin Blades. Both have single fire shots, but the beam is much bigger and works until it leaves the screen. Other items at the shop provide protection and restocking. The key to your survival is to watch your ammo while destroying almost all of your enemies. Most enemies carry money that converts into extra lives and weapons. Since the shops are few and far between, make sure you have enough money before you go in. Some avid gamers may remem- ber Hiro from the computer and his first encounter with Havok. Atari has

done a decent job in bringing the sequel to the Atari Lynx. The graphics have that clear detail and definition that has made the Lynx a favorite among the hand-held systems.

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Gloy; Wing of O0rs re Presens Sto, re ent TaNCe S,

~ MORE FUNTHAN ROLLIN

‘What could be more fun than rolling homer in the snow? Well, nothing... but these outrageous Simpsons” video games are really close.

It’s an avalanche of Simpsons hits on every video game system! More action, excitement and fun than Bart, Ho-Ho-Homer, and Krusty can shake a candy cane at. Naughty or nice, let everyone know you want The Simpsons”

video games... otherwise you'll get socks and underwear!

(PSST, if you want to check out these games early... your parents hid the presents in the attic...again.)

BART VS. THE

BART VS. ao THE SPACE MUTANTS FOR GAME BOY°! ON NES”, GENESIS” Soares AND GAME GEAR”! Obra

ag its Wisae ev: Hits” See Meee b>

JOUSTING JUST ENTERED THE ATOMIC AGE!

TRENTURING THE WHOLE SAVE THE EARTH WITH SIMPSONS” GANG! YOUR RANDY SLINGSHOT ESCAPE FROM CAMP DEADLY .

FOR GAME BOY“

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HANG OUT WITH BART AT CAMP DEADLY

BALLS OF FIRE!

Gin

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USOT TNT THE SO"M EN RAMPANT RODENTS! ON NES", SNES", GAME BOY° AND GENESIS"! KRUSTY SNOWMAN IN DR. CRAB'S LAIR!

SNAKES ARE WORSE THAN KRUSTY'S FUN HOUSE

G HOMER IN THE SNOW!

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The Simpsons TM & © 1992 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved. Nintendo®, Super Nintendo Entertainment System®, Nintendo Entertainment System®, Game Boy® and the official seals are registered trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc.

By Elizabeth Olson

He’s blue, he’s brave, he’s totally ballistic, and he’s back. If you haven’t heard by now, you need to get out more. Sonic the Hedgehog is headed this way again in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, the sequel to last year’s

no other character has experienced such a media blitz. This little blue speed demon threw the video game industry for a 360° loop when he was first intro- duced. Sonic was bigger and faster than anything we'd ever seen before. Sonic the Hedgehog sold close to one million copies securing its title character as the trademark personality for Sega. Every hedgehog has his day,

or at least this one does. “Sonic 2sday” is slated for November 24th, "92. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will be released through- out the world for Genesis, Game Gear and Master systems. It is rare that a game gets released world- wide, with a projected 4.5 mil- lion copies in sales, without first having a trial run in Japan. It’s also uncommon that a title be released across all Sega formats at the same time. Sega has launched a $10 million advertising Campaign to support the release W@ of Sonic 2. Now that’s confidence. Can it real- ly be that good? You bet! Sonic 2 has grown into an 8 Meg giant; that’s twice the size of the original game. There are ten basic Tails two or three scenes each, as well as a

special ‘secret’

SCORE sar 0:84

zone. Sonic is said to be faster than ever in this sequel and he does his 360 degree loop one better with a high-speed corkscrew loop. The really big news is that Sonic is now a two-player game. He’s joined by his younger friend, Tails, a 4-1/2 year old fox with two tails. This little buddy is full of mischief and enthu-

siasm, SO

he can be both a

help and a hindrance to

Sonic. He idolizes the Hedgehog and

copies his every move, but he occa-

sionally gets over-anxious and sneaks out in front.

Created by the same design team

as the original, the extra size of the cart allowed them to throw in a few more tricks with outstanding graph- ics and game play. With all that going for it, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is sure to steal a few hearts this hol- iday season. It will definitely be at the top of our wish list.

SRS OR

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P ’ . as < , / j ; . ) /} ( , A S La Written, by

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Tazmania: Warner Brothers’ Biggest Appetite Comes to Game Gear

It’s a sub-tropical paradise inhab- ited by crocodiles and koalas, bush people and bandicoots, wallabies and platypuses. It’s a land of strange cus- toms and unusual creatures. Did we say unusual? That hardy begins to describe the newest and most unlike- ly hero to find his way to your Game Gear.

Warner Brothers’ classic cartoon character, the Tazmanian Devil, is enjoying new popularity with an ani- mated show of his own. Now Sega brings this fearsome, fun-loving blur of fur into your home. And this over- enthusiastic trouble maker has an appetite for adventure.

Now before you groan, “...not another cartoon children’s cart!”, this game is a real challenge. Taz proves to be an animated, yet occasionally uncontrollable main character. What else would you expect from a Tazmanian Devil?

Taz is a fun-loving hero that sets out in search of food. But he must travel through all types of terrain and obstacles to find it. And all he has to defend himself with is that famous Tazmanian whirlwind of motion.

Began your adventure by dodging land mines and falling objects. You'll have to time your steps just right in order to sustain enough energy to

4

>

complete the level and still avoid getting blown up. Using your whirlwind of ener-

gy will help you

get past some obstacles, but keep some energy in reserve for those unexpected situations.

The second level finds Taz in a run-away Coal car, racing through dark mine shafts. Taz will need to collect power icons that are tucked away between the stalactites as he twists and turns through this level. However, he must also remember to duck or he’ll have one monster of a headache!

Taz also finds himself face to face with a pack of pesky penguins when he reaches the cooler stages of this

game. The snow and ice make traveling by foot a risky undertaking, as you'll be slipping every which-a-way. Just try stopping a spiraling whirlwind in this icy tun- dra! Meanwhile, Taz must always be on the lookout for food. Talk about your frozen dinners.

If this sounds like a challenge, wait until you try it. About the time you think you’ve got this game licked, Taz cashes it in and it’s back to the beginning. And just when you start to get carried away with this game, so does Taz. That is, there are birds threatening to swoop down and carry him off. Friend or foe? We'll let you figure it out. Taz is a true party

a rock and a hard

stuck between

animal in the spirit of fun. And he looks great in this hand-held version. If you’ve got a big appetite for some fun-filled adventure, check out Taz and his whole wacky family in their new cartoon. Better yet, check out Sega’s adventure for Game Gear. You’re sure to go back for seconds.

-y

Sega CD: The Waiting is Over

By Andrew McNamara

Compact Disk technology appears to be the future of video games. The future has arrived This month will see the introduction of the Sega CD.

The CD-ROM format allows for an increase of data capacity, which means better graphics and sound that will blow you away. Sega CD does all this and much more. Sega CD also incorporates the much needed, hard- ware scaling and rotation. This upgraded hardware sports some hearty equipment; 68000 and Z80 processors surrounded by custom graphics and sound chips that make this baby hum at 12 MHz. We’re talk- ing BIG improvements.

When you first open the Sega CD box, you might be surprised by what you find. The package includes five Disks, the first holding four classic Genesis games. Golden Ax, Streets of Rage, Columns, and Revenge of Shinobi are all Genesis favorites that need no introduction. Next, you'll find Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective, a murder mystery game that features full motion video. Sol- Feace, the arcade shooter, is next and at the bottom of the stack are two music disks; a hits collection and a CD+G. Your Sega CD library is already off to a good start.

Hardware is useless without games, but not to worry. Sega and several of their top licensees have got you covered with some incredible looking stuff. A few of the first games available before the holidays include Sega’s Night Trap, two disks worth of continuous full-motion video that’s just like going to the movies. Dig out that popcorn. Cobra Command lets you pilot a heavily powered heli- copter through animated video com- bat. WonderDog by JVC is your action/adventure choice and Bignet’s Black Hole Assault, the sequel to Heavy Nova, will be the street-style combat game. Sony smashes into the

rat race with Sewer Shark, a high- speed action shooter with some incredi- ble graphics.

Next out of the block is Batman Returns, featuring seven levels that include two 3-D driving levels so fast it will make your head spin. Finally, Sierra’s famous Willy Beamish jumps from the PC to CD. Games will con- tinue into the New Year with hits like Joe Montana Football, Wolf Child, and the huge Make your Own Video lineup.

While the Sega CD and its soft- ware may start slow, it is sure to grow and multiply. After all, the same could be said of the Super Nintendo just a year ago. The unit is a bit costly, considering it’s an add-on and not a complete system. At a suggested retail price of $299.99, its puts a strain on the pocketbook. However, if you have the means, | highly recom- mend the Sega CD experience.

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