Zombies Ate My Neighbors

"Zombies is a true Genesis classic, extremely enjoyable."

Zombie Ate My Neighbours is a Konami/Lucas Arts production. The general backstory is that zombies and various other types of undesirables have been created by the notorious Dr. Tongue, and they're out claiming victims one after another. Your goal is to destroy them whatever way possible, whether it be using squirt guns to cause the nasty fiends to burst into flames or by tossing pop cans to achieve a similar effect. You'll also have to rescue the apparently useless victims along the way for points and the unshakeable feeling that "you've done something right". Zombies has a very distinct feel to it, as it tries to recreate the feel of a B horror movie. There are exagerated lines tossed in here and there and the action never really takes itself seriously. This is a good thing.

Zombies takes place through a top-down view. The graphics are bright, cartoonish sprites, all very nicely done and fitting. All of the enemies all look great, with well drawn animations.

Sound effects and music are also well done and fitting. One particularly memorable level pits you against a horde of chainsawmen (which resemble a cross between Jason from the Friday the 13th series and Leatherface from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), placing you in a maze of hedges (taking a cue from The Shining). The atmosphere here is great, not knowing if you're going to run head-first into a maniac who's lurking just up ahead out of sight. Factor in some of the said great sounds of chainsaws roaring loudly and some creepy music, and you have damn fine (and fun) gaming experience on your hands.

There are 45+ levels to contend with, so it's definitely a full experience. There is a password-save feature to make the thing manageable, giving you a password every 5 levels.

Not to forget Zombies' excellent 2 player mode, in which you and a buddy can simultaneously kick evil's ass. This is undoubtedly the way the game is best played, so be sure you have a couple of joysticks and a friend for maximum enjoyment.

This game is a class act. While I haven't myself finished it as of yet (there's a lot to contend with!), I've still been having a great time playing it. One of the classics.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/19/99, Updated 11/19/99