Dotemu and Tribute Games — ofStreets of Rage 4andScott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Gamefame respectively — recently surprised gamers with the announcement of a newTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtlesbrawler. Unlike some more tepid releases of late, this installment looks to fully embrace the late ’80s-early ’90s roots of theTMNTgames. The game, known asShredder’s Revenge, looks to be a true spiritual successor to the fan-favoriteTurtles in Time, with some elements of the arcade beat-‘em-ups tossed in for good measure.
At least to this point, little is known about the title, outside of what was showcased in anaction-packed trailer. With many details about the game still shrouded in mystery, both the imaginations and expectations of fans have kicked into overdrive after viewing the minute-and-a-half teaser.
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There are plenty of elements that theTMNTfaithful are likely to point to that could make this bodacious blast to the past a worthyTurtles in Timesuccessor.
10Extra Content Down The Line
Given the short length ofTurtles in Time, it makes sense to assume this game won’t exactly be a robust epic either. Even if the campaign does manage to stretch beyond a few hours, most would likely welcome the trickling out of additional content post-release.
Assuming the added DLC was a reasonable price, many players would almost certainly dive into some additional stages, take on with new bosses, or partake in seasonal events. And given the rich, storied lore ofTMNT— which includes comics, TV, movies, and games — there’s no shortage of established content to pick from.
93D And On-Rails Stages
Most levels inTurtles in Timeand arcade brawlers of its ilk run with a typical sidescrolling A-to-B style. But ask fans what some of the most memorable stages are, and many will likely point to classics like Sewer Surfin’ and the atmospheric Neon Night Riders.
Given the massive potential of modern console hardware, at least a sprinkling of 3D stages seems like a no-brainer to mix things up.
Many would also likely embrace more stages that adhere to the exhilarating Sewer Surfin' formula of moving platforms and flying foes. As it happens, the trailer seems to indicate there will be at least one such stage, as Mike can be seen whizzing through the streets on a skateboard. This then cuts to a shot of all the Turtles gliding across a giant wave on surfboards. Kowabunga!
8Depth Through Upgrades Or Customization
Of course,beat-‘em-ups in the vein ofTurtles in Timetend to thrive on frantic, button-mashing simplicity. Still, some sort of depth via a progression system would likely add much to the game. Perhaps a basic RPG-esque system of upgrades or customizable weapons could be utilized when reaching an experience or kill threshold.
At the very least, the game could provide a simple system of tacking on stat points to certain areas a laCastle Crashers.
This could even be allocated to a separate game mode so that an untainted “retro” mode could remain forTurtles in Timetraditionalists.
7A Radical Retro-Style Soundtrack
One aspect of theShredder’s Revengetrailer that stood out to many fans was its awesome soundtrack. From the faithful intro theme cover by Faith No More’s Mike Patton to the 16-bit tune that followed, there was much to appreciate.
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This gets the imagination jogging as to what sort of delightful tunesShredder’s Revengecould have. One surefire way to please most fans would be a medley of new, more dynamic tracks with some 16-bit tracks mixed in. Perhaps remixes or modern takes of classicTurtles in Timejams— such asAlleycat Blues and Neon Night Riders — could round out its lineup.
6A Diversity Of Environments
Turtles in Timeisrenowned for its solid mechanics and thrilling action-packed gameplay; though it’s also very much remembered for its cool, colorful worlds. Strengthened and tied together by the fun premise of time traveling, this beat-‘em-up takes gamers on an exhilarating ride to charming 16-bit locales that rang from pirate ships to the prehistoric wilderness.
Of course,Shredder’s Revengeis likely to feature some staples such as the New York City streets, sewers, as well as the Technodrome. Still, it would be great to see a number of new, imaginative biomes here as well. The game could draw from newer film or TV renditions, or feature all-new locales from across the globe to journey through.
5Animated Cutscenes
Coupled with the nostalgia-inducing pixel art in the trailer is some nicely detailed animation that manages to look modern while invoking that ‘80sTMNTcartoon style. This has gotten fans of the original animated series giddy about the prospect of lengthier cutscenes in-between stages and elsewhere.
Such an artistic choice would surely help add to the atmosphere and set the stage for the action-packed gameplay segments. Perhaps some of the original animators and voice actors could even contribute to these animated segments, further driving home that classicTMNTfeel.
4A Competitive Battle Mode
The notion of the Turtles clashing with one-another may raise a few eyebrows — though game likeTMNT: Tournament FightersandSmash-Uphaveproven this idea can be pulled off successfully. Why not have some sort ofcompetitive battle arenafor players to settle their grudges over who can nab that extra pizza or call dibs on Donatello?
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Perhaps the Foot or other baddies could even be thrown into the mix to amp up the excitement and chaos?
3Online Co-Op And Challenges
It seems a virtual guarantee thatShredder’s Revengewill come with online play in some fashion. It would certainly make sense for such amultiplayer-oriented game. However, one can’t help but wonder how in-depth or interesting this component will be. Could the entire game be completed with four players banding together online? Will there be online score attacks and leaderboards?
How about daily challenges and events in the vein of other brawl-heavy romps likeSuper Smash Bros. Ultimate? Only time will tell…
2An Appearance From The Key Villains
One element that shines through when it comes toTMNTis its memorable cast of villains. They add plenty of character and usually make for natural boss fights; as games likeTurtles in Timeillustrated.
One would hope that staple foes like Baxter Stockman, Krang, and Shredder will see return appearances in this brawler. But given the abundance of villains originating both before andafterthis ‘92 classic, there’s the potential for many more to round out this list, as well. From theTurtles in TimearcadeexclusiveCement Man to the ‘03 cartoon’s Hun, there’s plenty to draw from.
1Other Playable Characters Beyond The Turtles
One particular detail that had fans buzzing from the trailer was the brief glimpses of Splinter and April O’Neil clashing with foes. Though this could just be for show, logic would dictate that this means the two iconic figures could jump into the action as playable characters. If this is the case, could there be yet more, such as the mask-wearing vigilante Casey Jones?
These inclusions would definitely make for some cool unlockables, incentivizing fans to replay the game or take on tougher challenges.
NEXT:10 Best Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Games (& How To Play Them)
