Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (1991-)

• Developer: Imagineering Inc

• Publisher: THQ

• Genre: Platform

• Composer: Mark Van Hecke

Attack of the Killer Tomatoes for the NES was developed by Radiance and released in 1991. It was published by LJN, a company known for licensing games based on popular media franchises during that era. The game was based on the cult film and animated series of the same name, which parodied classic monster movies by featuring giant tomatoes attacking the world. The NES version was one of several adaptations, although it did not have major ports to other systems.

In the game, players control a character tasked with fighting off waves of mutant tomatoes across various stages. The gameplay is a side-scrolling platformer with shooting elements, where players navigate through levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and tomato-themed hazards. The game draws inspiration from other action platformers of the time but stands out due to its unusual and comedic premise. Players collect weapons and power-ups to fend off the relentless tomato attackers, making for a challenging and quirky experience.

The soundtrack of Attack of the Killer Tomatoes features fast-paced and catchy tracks designed to keep players engaged through the levels. While not a standout aspect of the game, the music fits the lighthearted and somewhat campy tone of the source material. Sound effects emphasize the comedic horror aspect, with exaggerated tomato splats and character reactions. The music adds energy to the gameplay but did not receive significant attention on its own.

There was no prequel to Attack of the Killer Tomatoes, but the franchise itself had various iterations in film and television. The NES game did not spawn any direct sequels, and its promotion largely focused on leveraging the cult popularity of the movie and animated series. Reception was mixed, with some appreciating the humor and unique theme but many criticizing the game’s controls and difficulty. Overall, it remains a niche title remembered mostly for its odd concept rather than gameplay excellence.

Images from MobyGames