Ghostbusters II (USA)

The Ghostbusters II game on the NES puts players in the shoes of the familiar Ghostbusters team, facing a new supernatural threat from Vigo the Carpathian and the river of slime beneath New York City. The gameplay of Ghostbusters II is quite varied but also presents unique challenges.

For much of the game, players control one of the team members (Peter, Ray, Egon, Winston) through side-scrolling or top-down perspectives. The initial stages often involve driving the Ecto-1 through New York streets, dodging traffic, and collecting spirits to earn money.

Once inside buildings or specific areas, the gameplay shifts to a side-scrolling view. Players use their proton packs to blast various types of ghosts. A distinctive feature is ghost capturing: after weakening a ghost with the proton stream, players need to deploy a ghost trap to suck them in. This requires precise aiming and timing.

Another mechanic involves using a slime blower to clear pathways of the psycho-reactive slime or deal with special slime-based entities. Missions often revolve around collecting specific artifacts or items necessary to progress to the final confrontation. The game also features unique segments, such as controlling the Statue of Liberty as she walks through the city during the climactic battle against Vigo.

The in-game currency allows players to upgrade equipment or purchase support items. However, controls can sometimes feel a bit clunky, and mission objectives are occasionally vague, requiring players to explore or experiment. Despite its quirks, Ghostbusters II offers a distinctive ghost-busting experience on the NES.