Total Carnage

"Smash TV in a different setting"

Total Carnage is just like Super Smash TV, except the setting is different, as well as some of the weapons. This time you're outside, not inside, and the game is even harder. Each level still contains countless mindless enemies, with the intention of swarming and overpowering you with sheer numbers. Your regular pea shooting gun doesn't do much good in the higher levels, so you'll need one of the many stronger guns and other powerups to have any chance of survival. For one or two players, play is simultaneous.

Graphics: 7/10

Characters are small, but there can be a hundred on screen at any given time. This game is brighter than Super Smash TV. Most bosses are huge.

Sound: 6/10

Lots of sound effects, but the music is nothing special.

Gameplay: 7/10

The same as Super Smash TV. Players move with the directional pad, and fire in each direction using X, Y, B and A. This takes some getting used to, but it's OK once you do. Powerups include more powerful guns, devices that clear the screen of enemies and temporary invincibility. You'll need all of those too, because this game is hard, so much so that I'd call it a negative. You won't finish this in a rental, that's for sure. Because of the difficulty, the game is very frustrating at times. The variety of weapons is a plus. The two player mode lowers the difficulty level somewhat, but you'll still be struggling to stay alive in the higher levels.

Replay: 6/10

The two player mode is OK, but there's really not a lot here the second time around. You'll actually be lucky to finish the game to be able to play it a second time.

Overall: 7/10

I would say this game is on par with Super Smash TV; neither game is a lot better than the other. If you liked Super Smash TV, you'll cetainly like this, but be warned: your finger will be tired after playing and you could be frustrated as well. Still, worth a look.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 11/01/99