Nintendo all-stars collide.

Original N64europe Review

Let's start off by saying that Super Smash Bros. is not really a fighting game. Unlike the Tekkens or Mortal Kombats of this world, Smash Bros. does not rely on complex button combinations or a ton of moves to bring the game to life. To figure out what this game is all about, imagine a hybrid of the original Mario Bros. and Street Fighter. The outcome is a refreshing multiplayer battle game that delivers a ton of fun and a heavy dose of nostalgia.

Players pick from eight Nintendo characters (plus four hidden) and square off in nine famous Nintendo locations. Both characters and stages have their unique abilities and features. The game's premise is simple: kick, punch or throw the other character(s) off the platforms to score points. This is easier said than done, though, as each fighter can pull off multiple jumps and moves in order to find safe ground. Your arsenal of special moves is rather limited if you compare Smash Bros. to a traditional fighting game. Don't. The game's small but enjoyable selection of moves make it possible for everyone and their little brother to get into the game. The extremely entertaining multiplayer mode is the game's main selling point. These fights, with up to four players, never seem to get old.

Smash Bros. doesn't really break new ground in the visuals department. The character models are simple approximations of Link, Mario, Donkey Kong and co. Though not revolutionary, the characters are well animated and the graphics move smoothly. The stage graphics are a mixed bag: some are simply beautiful, some a little rough around the edges.

All you favorite melodies and character sounds are here. Although none of the characters actually talk, each features plenty of familiar and entertaining voice effects. The game also sports a nice spread of new tracks and re-mixes. (Nintendo fans will also love the old-school sound effects for the Donkey Kong hammer, the crowd chants accompanying a winning streak, and the "star" theme.)

I've been playing Smash Bros. since January and I still love the game, though I have to admit that I spend most of the time playing the multiplayer modes.

- by James Eastwood