The Angry Video Game Nerd (AVGN) is renowned for his brutally honest and often humorous reviews of retro video games. Over the years, he has tackled games from various developers, exposing the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. One developer that has occasionally come under his scrutiny is Atlus, known for producing a mix of both critically acclaimed titles and obscure oddities. In this article, we delve into some of the Atlus games reviewed by AVGN, examining his takes and the legacy of these games in the broader gaming landscape. AVGN Reviewed Atlus Games
Atlus: A Developer with a Diverse Portfolio
Atlus has a reputation for creating unique and memorable games, often characterized by deep storytelling, complex characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. They are perhaps best known for their role-playing games (RPGs), particularly the Shin Megami Tensei series and its spin-off, Persona. However, their catalog includes a variety of genres, some of which have been the subject of AVGN’s reviews.
AVGN’s Take on Atlus Games
1. Karate Kid (NES)
Karate Kid, developed by Atlus and published by LJN, is one of the games reviewed by AVGN. In his review, AVGN highlights the game’s simplistic design and frustrating controls. Despite its flaws, the game has a certain charm that resonates with fans of the movie. AVGN’s humorous take on the game’s difficult levels and awkward mechanics makes for an entertaining watch.
2. Friday the 13th (NES)
Another collaboration between Atlus and LJN, Friday the 13th for the NES, is infamous for its confusing gameplay and high difficulty. AVGN’s review is particularly memorable for his exasperation with the game’s cryptic objectives and relentless enemies. He points out the game’s flaws while also acknowledging its eerie atmosphere and ambitious attempt to translate a horror film into a video game format.
3. Zombie Nation (NES)
Zombie Nation is one of the more bizarre games developed by Atlus. AVGN’s review highlights the game’s unusual premise, where players control a disembodied samurai head fighting against an alien invasion. The review captures the absurdity and chaotic nature of the game, with AVGN poking fun at its unconventional storyline and over-the-top action.
The Legacy of Atlus Games Reviewed by AVGN
While AVGN’s reviews often focus on the frustrating or humorous aspects of these games, they also shed light on the creativity and boldness of Atlus as a developer. The games reviewed by AVGN may not be among Atlus’s most polished works, but they contribute to the developer’s reputation for taking risks and exploring unconventional ideas.
The Good, the Bad, and the Nostalgic
Atlus’s collaboration with publishers like LJN resulted in a mix of experiences for gamers. Games like Karate Kid and Friday the 13th are remembered for their challenging gameplay and unique takes on their source material. Despite their flaws, these games have a nostalgic value that resonates with gamers who grew up in the 80s and 90s.
AVGN’s reviews serve as both a critique and a celebration of these games. His comedic approach makes the flaws more palatable, allowing viewers to appreciate the effort and creativity that went into their development. For many, watching AVGN’s reviews is a trip down memory lane, reminding them of the joys and frustrations of classic gaming.
Conclusion
Atlus has a rich history of game development, with titles that range from the deeply immersive to the delightfully strange. AVGN’s reviews of Atlus games provide a humorous yet insightful look at some of the less celebrated entries in their catalog. These reviews highlight the quirks and challenges of early video game design while celebrating the nostalgia and creativity that define Atlus’s legacy.
For fans of retro gaming and AVGN’s unique brand of humor, these reviews are a must-watch. They offer a glimpse into a bygone era of gaming, where experimentation and innovation often led to memorable, if imperfect, experiences.