Frankenstein: The Monster Returns (NES) Playthrough

Описание: Playthrough of Frankenstein: The Monster Returns, Bandai's 1991 side-scrolling action title for the Nintendo Entertainment System.

The narrative centers on the accidental resurrection of Frankenstein’s monster by a bolt of lightning, after which the creature kidnaps the village elder's daughter, Emily. While the title incorrectly identifies the monster as "Frankenstein," the game functions as a supernatural action-platformer rather than a faithful adaptation of Mary Shelley’s literature. Players assume the role of a hero who must navigate four distinct stages, including a home village and a dark forest, to reach an "Evil Dimension" where the monster is held. The experience is heavily driven by cinematic cutscenes and dialogue from defeated bosses who, once freed from a mind-control spell, provide information on the antagonist's whereabouts.

Structurally, the gameplay is a hybrid of mechanics reminiscent of contemporary hits like Castlevania and Ninja Gaiden. The protagonist begins the quest unarmed, utilizing punches and jump-kicks until they can acquire an arsenal of upgradable weapons such as clubs, boomerangs, and swords. Combat is supplemented by magical attacks, life bar upgrades, and healing potions. While the level design consists of relatively short platforming segments, the primary focus is placed on large-scale boss encounters against figures such as Death and a Demon Horse. Though the technical execution suffers from minor collision detection issues and a brief overall length, the combat provides a fun, albeit unrefined, challenge.

The game’s presentation is marked by an earnestly melodramatic tone and detailed, atmospheric environments that fit well within the mid-tier NES library. Developed by Tose, the title exhibits some "inherent jank" typical of the studio's other output for publishers like Jaleco and Vic Tokai, yet it remains mechanically accessible after a brief period of adjustment. Despite being less polished than the high-profile franchises it emulates, the game successfully stitches together diverse action elements to create a compelling alternative for fans of the horror-action genre. Its blend of stylish monster-fighting and non-traditional plot progression makes it a notable, if overlooked, 8-bit experience.