HAUNTED: Halloween '86 - The Curse Of Possum Hollow (2017)

Get ready to take on the ultimate 8-bit challenge once again this Halloween night! HAUNTED: Halloween '86 (The Curse of Possum Hollow) is an all-new homebrew game for the NES, offering side-scrolling platform action with a thrilling beat 'em up twist. As the follow-up to its predecessor, HAUNTED: Halloween '85, this game keeps the nostalgic vibe alive while introducing exciting upgrades and features. Originally released in October 2016 on a physical cartridge for the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), the game sticks to the limitations and rules of the classic hardware.

Now, for those who want to relive the retro magic, a PC version of HAUNTED: Halloween '86 is available, capturing the pixelated 8-bit visuals and gameplay that made the original so beloved. Additionally, the NES cartridge version can still be purchased online for collectors and those who own a working NES console or a compatible clone system.

Game Features and Upgrades

HAUNTED: Halloween '86 brings several significant improvements over the original game. One of the standout features is the new Tag Team Technology, allowing players to switch between two playable characters seamlessly during gameplay. Each character has unique abilities and health meters, offering strategic depth and flexibility. This new mechanic gives players more control over the action and lets them use the strengths of both characters to overcome the challenges of Possum Hollow.

The game's combat system has undergone a complete overhaul. Players can now execute a variety of new and powerful attacks, defensive maneuvers, and evasive moves. Whether you're taking on hordes of enemies or exploring the town, the combat feels more dynamic and engaging. The game also introduces new combo moves, allowing players to chain together devastating attacks and clear the screen of enemies more efficiently.

In addition to the upgraded combat, HAUNTED: Halloween '86 also features impressive visual enhancements. The game now supports split-screen scrolling for parallax effects, creating a more immersive environment as players move through the levels. Animated backgrounds and interactive objects in the environment add to the atmosphere, making the world of Possum Hollow feel alive and reactive to player actions.

New Enemies and Abilities

As you venture through the spooky town of Possum Hollow, you'll encounter a variety of new and dangerous enemies. From ghoulish zombies to other eerie creatures, the game challenges players with a range of formidable foes. One of the unique features in HAUNTED: Halloween '86 is the ability to decapitate zombies. After doing so, players can pick up and use their heads as weapons, adding a gruesome twist to the combat mechanics. It's a perfect example of the game's dark sense of humor and its dedication to delivering a fresh experience.

Throughout the game, players can also uncover hidden power-ups that enhance their combat abilities, making them even more effective in battle. Whether you're boosting attack strength, gaining new moves, or increasing health, these power-ups are essential for surviving the onslaught of monstrous enemies. And don't forget about the pumpkins! These pesky objects can be smashed for extra rewards, adding another layer of interactivity to the game world.

Conclusion

HAUNTED: Halloween '86 (The Curse of Possum Hollow) is a love letter to classic NES games, but with enough new features and improvements to make it feel like a worthy sequel. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Possum Hollow, this game offers an exciting mix of retro charm, fresh gameplay mechanics, and Halloween-themed action. Prepare to face the horrors of the cursed town and prove you're tough enough to survive the ultimate 8-bit challenge once again!

HAUNTED: Halloween '86 - The Curse Of Possum Hollow is a solid throwback to classic NES action. The game nails the retro feel with its 8-bit graphics and tight side-scrolling gameplay, while adding new moves, tag team mechanics, and fun interactive backgrounds. Fans of old-school platformers and beat 'em ups will find plenty to enjoy here.

The combat is more dynamic than its predecessor, with combos, defensive moves, and creative ways to use enemies against you. The upgrades and hidden power-ups keep the game engaging, and the Halloween theme adds a fun, spooky vibe. It's challenging, but in a fair and rewarding way.

Overall, we recommend HAUNTED: Halloween '86. It’s a clever, nostalgic experience that respects its roots while offering fresh twists. If you love retro games with a modern touch, this one is worth your time.