In 1991 the world was introduced to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time arcade game, now almost 30 years later, publisher Dotemu and developer Tribute Games are bringing the classic game back for the modern age with a re-release. This time fans of the beloved characters can enjoy the game on the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4, with the Xbox One and PC versions later this summer.
When the original version of Turtles in Time was first released it instantly became a classic, beloved by fans around the world. Players took control of the four Ninja Turtles – Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo – and had to battle their way through hordes of enemies in order to save the world. The game kept the same formula as its predecessor: gameplay centered on side-scrolling fighting. Players had to use a combination of punches, kicks, and special attacks to defeat their enemies and keep progressing through the levels. Some levels had environmental challenges too, such as riding a skateboard or climbing a building, adding an extra layer of challenge. All of this was accompanied by the now-iconic music and sound, which gave the game a unique atmosphere.
The game did have some minor updates for the re-release. The graphics have been given a modern touch-up and can now be played in HD. But, the game's core remains unchanged, providing just what fans have been looking for - a trip down memory lane. The four-player cooperative- and competitive-multiplayer options that made the game so beloved back in the day are still included too, giving an extra level of excitement for players who love gaming with friends.
The online component of the game is what really sets the re-release apart from the original. Players can now join the online lobby, pits four of them against each other in a race to the finish line. Players can also interact with each other using the game’s chat feature to strategize and exchange taunt-waves before they battle it out in the final level.
Though some argue that the game has not gone far enough with updates, many feel that the classic formula and mechanics are still intact, and add a nice nostalgic element to the game. Furthermore, updates, such as the improved visuals, have done the game a world of good, adding to the experience in a way that fans of the original can appreciate.
While modern gaming has evolved in so many ways since the game was first released, Turtles in Time has remained a beloved classic. The re-release of the game has added further fuel to the fire and gives fans new life, allowing them to experience all over again the exciting side-scrolling action and cooperative and competitive multiplayer options that have made Turtles in Time one of the most iconic arcade games of all time.
