Smash T.V.

• Release Date: 1990
• Genre: Shooter
• Style: Fixed Screen Shooter
• Similar Games: Berzerk (Arcade), Robotron: 2084 (Arcade), Super Smash T.V. (Super Nintendo Entertainment System), Frenzy (Arcade), Frenzy (Commodore 64/128), Berzerk (Atari Video Computer System), Robotron: 2084 (Atari 7800), Space Dungeon (Arcade), Super Smash T.V. (Sega Genesis), Frenzy (ColecoVision), Robotron: 2084 (Atari 5200), Robotron: 2084 (Atari Lynx), Berzerk (Atari 5200), Space Dungeon (Atari 5200), Berzerk (Vectrex), Super Smash TV (Sega Master System)

Game Description

The time is 1999 and television remains the most popular source of entertainment in the country. A decidedly violent game show by the name of Smash T.V. has captivated audiences worldwide and is the most-watched program on the small screen. In this bloody game show, contestants battle hordes of mutants and weapon-toting maniacs for cash and valuable prizes.

The action in Smash T.V. is viewed from directly above, and gameplay is similar to that found in Robotron: 2084. You can move in all directions with one joystick while firing in all directions with another joystick. You must shoot your way through waves of enemies in room after room while trying to avoid enemy fire, round mines and exploding mutants. In addition to shooting enemies, you should gather up prizes, cash and keys, the last of which will allow you to enter the Pleasure Domes. You can also snag weapon enhancements as you go.

If you live long enough while playing a round of Smash T.V., you will eventually encounter enemy bosses with such names as Mutoid Man and Cobra Man. The last such boss is the host of Smash T.V. himself, a man who simply goes by the name of Game Show Host.

Roots & Influences

This game was obviously influenced by Robotron: 2084, circa 1982.

The 1987 theatrical movie Running Man likely had an influence on it as well. In the film, Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a man who must survive a violent futuristic TV game show which is similar to the one in Smash T.V..

Review: Overall

If you don't like gratuitous violence in videogames, don't bother with Smash T.V.. When you step on a mine, body parts fly. When you mow down a wave of enemies, blood flows like water from an open fire hydrant. However, if you enjoy non-stop action and bone-shattering intensity, you'll love this game. The odds are almost always overwhelmingly in the computer's favor, but as long as you keep running and firing, you'll usually have a chance to blast your way to safety, however fleeting that may be (usually no more than a second or two).

One of the great parts of Smash T.V. is the fact that it's got one of the highest per-quarter body count rates in the history of videogaming (or so I assume), but playing each level is not merely an exercise in finding a good spot and staying there or deciding upon a predetermined course of action. Rather, you must constantly jockey for position while mowing down a wild assortment of enemies who move in changing, unpredictable patterns. Each room is a claustrophobic death trap with you as the victim. With each quarter you drop in the machine, you'll relish the opportunity to take down as many cretins as possible while fighting for your life (and valuable prizes).

Speaking of quarters, you'll need to fill your pockets with them before heading out to the Arcade to play a little Smash T.V.. The game is brutally difficult, especially if you're a rookie. However, old-schoolers well-versed in Robotron: 2084 will have an easier time of it, and the availability of unlimited continues will take the edge off the frustration factor.

Despite the violent content in this game, the music and humor give it a lighthearted feel. The tunes are fast, pleasing and nicely orchestrated. The programmers were wise not to overwhelm the constant firepower and bass-heavy, screen-shaking explosions with a heavy duty soundtrack. The voices are funny in a crass kind of way.

Smash T.V. will enthrall shooter fans with its high level of intensity and constant action. However, those wanting a more thoughtful gaming experience, or at least one that is less violent, should look elsewhere.

Review: Enjoyment

If you are tired or feeling less than alert, drink a gallon of coffee and come back. You'll need the rush of energy to keep up with the onscreen action. The dual joystick action is fantastic. Also, the powerful and very necessary weapon upgrades are killer (so to speak).

Review: Graphics

The walls and floors of the rooms are detailed without being cluttered. The bosses are amusingly drawn. The ubiquitous enemies are colorful and interesting in design.

Review: Sound

The voices help keep the game in the realm of crass commercialism, like any trashy game show should. The music and lighter sound effects (such as when you pick up a particular item) are in nice contrast with the many explosions and constant shooting.

Review: Replay Value

This game is like {*Robotron: 2084} on steroids. If you can sucker a victim (I mean friend) into joining you in two-player action, the game heats up even more.

Review: Documentation

The information is more than adequate.

Production Credits