So as you may realize by now, there’s an awesome new Evil Dead: The Game on shelves. It’s good multiplayer madness from Saber Interactive, a game that totally understands its fan base. That’s why the team brought back Bruce Campbell and company to carve up some Deadites.
Not to mention it’s faring much better than some Evil Dead games we’ve gotten in the past. Yep, before this official iteration, we’ve had a number of games based on the franchise drop onto consoles and mobile.
Let’s step into the cabin – and maybe back to medieval England – as we discover some of the lost Evil Deadgames from over the years.
The Evil Dead (Commodore 64)
(Video from Marcel Woerlee)
That’s right, an Evil Dead game originally released for the old Commodore 64. In it, you guide Ash in an overhead view through the cabin, taking down monsters in explosive (but non-gory) fashion.
This game is as basic as it gets, but it follows the general principles of the movie. Plus, we are talking an 80s release, so it’s not as if we should’ve expected a huge next-gen experience. This was suitable, but probably something that pales in comparison to today’s efforts.
Evil Dead: Hail To The King (Dreamcast, PlayStation)
(Video from P.B. Horror Gaming)
A lot changed in the gaming world since the first Evil Dead game released. And that includes Resident Eviland its many counterparts. THQ thought it’d be a neat idea to craft an Evil Dead game based on the Evilblueprint, where you fight your way through the dreaded cabin.
It was neat in principle, and also features the voice and likeness of good ol’ Bruce Campbell. However, the gameplay is a bit ancient, especially nowadays; and the graphics don’t look too hot, even on the Dreamcast. It’s not horrible, but there are better games out there. Still, for collectors, it might be a treat.
Evil Dead: A Fistful of Boomstick (PlayStation 2)
(Video from P.B. Horror Gaming)
After sort of learning its lesson from Hail To the King, THQ tried again with the 3D action/adventure A Fistful of Boomstick. Bruce is once again back, and the game relies more on classic platforming and 3D movement. Not to mention it’s loaded with carnage, thanks to your chainsaw and shotgun.
This one’s way more playable than the previous game. But it’s also a bit monotonous, especially with its settings. Still, if it’s carnage you’re wanting, you could certainly do worse than this one. Plus Bruce continues to sound just like Ash, which works for us.
Evil Dead: Regeneration (PlayStation 2, Xbox)
(Video from MKIceandFire)
Next up, we have THQ’s original effort, Evil Dead: Regeneration, which became a big hit with collectors. Not only does it tell a better story, but the gameplay is a little more concentrated this time around. Not to mention you have a little Deadite voiced by Ted Raimi (Sam’s brother) lending a hand in tight situations.
This one’s a lot of fun and served as the best Evil Dead game for years before the 2022 release came along. And it’s still a blast to play today. So if you can track down a copy, that’d be groovy on your end.
Evil Dead: Endless Nightmare (mobile)
(Video from Pryszard Android iOS Gameplays)
This one’s based on the 2013 remake and not really a part of the general storyline from the original films. But it was a hit for fans of endless runners on mobile. It has its moments, with lots of 3D carnage as you continue to run from the undead. That said, it is pretty one note since it’s, well, mobile. And it’s probably delisted by now, so you’re not missing much.
Army of Darkness Defense (mobile)
(Video from GamePlay)
This is somewhat a unique approach to Evil Dead games, focusing on the third film Army of Darkness. Rather than just delivering general carnage, you set up strategies for incoming Deadites that try to steal the Necronomicon from you.
This one’s pretty basic, and fun for those that love to hear consistent quotes from Bruce Campbell. However, it’s very repetitive, and some of the guards like to scream the exact same quote, as you can hear above. If you can stomach that, hey, sally forth.
Evil Dead: The Game (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC)
(Video from PlayStation)
Last but certainly not least, we have the game that truly defines what Evil Dead is all about. Saber Interactive wisely loads this multiplayer romp with familiar characters from across the Evil Dead universe. And yes, that includes the Ghostbeaters!
This one’s tremendous fun, whether you’re playing as the Kardanian god itself or any one of the survivors fighting the odds. You can learn new tricks and team up together to take down mighty warriors. Not to mention deliver some badass quips and a lot of carnage. Don’t miss out on this bloody party.
What’s your favorite Evil Dead game? Sound off!
