Since Halloween is right around the corner, we needed a good game to review. And luckily, we got two as part of the RetroRealms collection.
This compilation features two separately sold titles based on popular horror movie franchises. The first is Halloween, with the legendary Michael Myers. The second is Ash vs. Evil Dead, focusing on Ash Williams. You can buy them separately, but going all in on the package unlocks bonus goodies, including extra characters.
No matter which purchase options you make, however, bloody good fun exists. Halloween has Michael at his gore-spilling best, with fun platforming techniques and lots of hacking and slashing. Ash vs. Evil Dead, however, is the better of the two, thanks to a variance of enemies and dimension switching. But both offer old-school goodness, even if you’re not necessarily a fan of either franchise.
The difficulty spikes may be a bit much, but RetroRealms still presents a damn fine package to enjoy this Halloween season. Chalk up another groovy win for the team at WayForward.
RetroRealms: Halloween
First up in the collection is Halloween, based on that particular film series. You play as Michael Myers (or Laurie Strode, if you unlock her), carving your way through enemies. It’s a bit light on story, but, honestly, it’s just you going from level to level, trying to reach the end. Pure and basic.
The gameplay in this one works really well, complete with platforming techniques and, of course, bloody action. I would’ve liked a few more weapons thrown into the fray, but, heck, Michael is brutal enough as it is. There are also some fun boss encounters, throwing in some unexpected wrinkles on this journey.
There’s also the Dark Realm, which adds an interesting twist on what to expect from Michael. Maybe he’s not doing this on his own. It’s a neat idea, and I’m glad to see WayForward expand on it a little.
Also, the visuals and music are pretty good. I think Ash vs. Evil Dead has more of a hellish touch to it, but Halloween fans will like what they find. It’s definitely retro-inspired, and would easily give Friday the 13th’s 8-bit game a run for its money.
So, yeah, Halloween is worth the cash. Just remember, you’re the bad guy here (well, unless you’re Laurie), so you’re supposed to be bumping people off. It won’t turn you into a murder monster, though. It’s all in good, tongue-in-cheek fun.
RetroRealms: Ash vs. Evil Dead
Now for the real gem of the package – Ash Williams! In Ash vs. Evil Dead, you control our hero (or his buddy, Kelly Maxwell) as the Deadites start piling up. Along the way, you can change dimensions to get through level sections, while picking up sweet collectibles. Groovy indeed.
I like the gameplay more here, because we identify better with Ash. His personality clearly shines through, as arrogant as it is. In fact, the only thing that would’ve made it sweeter is voiceovers from Bruce Campbell himself. But even without that, it just clicks.
Like Halloween, the game operates with a simple but sharp control system. Hacking enemies is a breeze, and platforming has its moments. You also get a glimpse of the Chevy in some parts –and it’ll need a car wash when you’re done.
The visuals are a delight, highlighting some of the best elements from the Evil Dead universe. There are also inspired bosses, and a joyous little soundtrack to keep things moving. Again, I would’ve liked some voiceovers, but no biggie.
Ash vs. Evil Dead is easily my favorite of the two games. But, honestly, having both isn’t a bad thing. Not in the least. Just be aware that both of these titles get harder as you go on – like any given classic NES game. Are you up for the challenge?
A Bloody Good Package
Playing either of the games requires going through a neat little mini-arcade hub. It’s really cool, a reminder of the days when we walked up to a Ghouls ‘n Ghosts machine. But there’s more to this place.
See, with coins collected in both games, you can unlock a bunch of extras. These include collectible 3D items based on the characters. In addition, there are options to play around with, and bonus videos delving into the behind-the-scenes process. It really tacks on to the replay value, though slashing your way through enemies never gets old.
Come Get Some
Overall, this is a nice, well-rounded package. Could it have been better in some places? Sure, but RetroRealms comes through as needed for horror fans and retro gamers alike. Both games play fundamentally well, and have really great presentations. Plus there are extras galore, and plenty of fan service.
I do hope this game does well because, honestly, I’d love to see more games like this. Imagine a Chucky side-scroller. Or giving Freddy Kreuger a game that he can be proud of. Now that’s an idea we can get behind.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to WayForward for the review code! RetroRealms is available now for Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and PC.
Oh, you want more old-school reviews? Check out our coverage on Aero the Acro-Bat 2 and Castlevania Dominus Collection!
