Splatterhouse was a unique release when it was released. When NEC released the TurboGrafx-16 in North America it was instantly the underdog in gamer’s eyes. This was the first outing for NEC in this territory. For all intents and purposes, no real name brand games were available or on the horizon for this new console. NEC had a tough road to walk but they tried. Splatterhouse was a title that made most gamers notice the system for the first time. Maybe this was due to the graphical violence conveyed on screen or the familiarity of it all.

Horror in gaming

Splatterhouse makes use of horror movie standard items such as a ski mask, machete, chainsaw etc. Then mixes in a 2D side scrolling action adventure for a unique experience exclusive to the platform. Playing as Rick Taylor who is trying to save his girlfriend, and fellow college student, Jennifer Willis. The storm forced the couple to take refuge in West Mansion but things went downhill from there. Rick wakes up in the dungeon and Jennifer is gone, no sign of her. Talk about a bad situation getting worse. To top it off, West Mansion is nicknamed “Splatterhouse”, what a lovely name. This is due to rumors of wild, disgusting, experiments that people believe took place there by Dr. West- deranged, and conveniently missing, parapsychologist.

Splatterhouse, love at first site

When I saw Splatterhouse at the local Electronics Boutique I was amazed that that was released domestically. I was coming off years and years of NES playing. We all know this game simply would not have made it past the Nintendo censoring. Playing Splatterhouse for the first time was pretty awesome. Even though there were severe limitations in the engine, I was able to overlook them. The gore, puking background bodies of puss was just too cool at the time (I am easy to please). Splatterhouse was different and fun, right up my teenage gamer’s alley at the time. Sadly, more interesting games like Splatterhouse didn’t follow suit across the ocean.

Censorship sucks

There are some censoring moments to be aware of, though I have yet to feel cheated for them being removed. The mask is not white in the US version. This is probably due to concerns with New Line Cinema/Paramount Pictures and the Jason Vorhees character. Also several religious visual items are removed and/or replaced in the console version versus the arcade game.

Keeping the horror alive

Splatterhouse has made the rounds digitally.  It is available on the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console and iTunes for iPhone/iPad.  If you want a physical copy then look for Splatterhouse on eBay. Not a fan of eBay then check for Splatterhouse on Amazon.  There was a remake in 2010 that is largely unrelated to the TurboGrafx-16/Arcade version. The arcade game is an Easter Egg though.  Splatterhouse spawned two sequels on the Sega Genesis. The second game being similar to the TG-16/arcade version. The third game is more like Final Fight/Streets of Rage.

Who remembers this classic? For more horror based games check out our coverage.

Carl Williams

It is time gaming journalism takes its rightful place as proper sources and not fanboys giving free advertising. If you wish to support writers like Carl please use the links below. https://www.paypal.me/WCW https://www.patreon.com/CarlWilliams