Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time, developed and published by Konami, burst onto the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1992. As a home console adaptation of the hugely popular arcade game, it delivered a vibrant, action-packed beat ’em up that remains one of the most beloved licensed games and a definitive classic SNES game. This TMNT Turtles in Time SNES review explores its enduring appeal.

Gameplay: Time-Traveling Turtle Power!

At its core, Turtles in Time SNES is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that excels in its simplicity and fun. Players choose from the four iconic Turtles – Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, or Raphael – each with their unique weapon and slight variations in reach and speed. The controls are intuitive, allowing for basic attacks, jumps, and special moves like the powerful slide kick and the signature “slam” where you throw enemies directly into the screen, a fantastic visual flourish.

The game’s brilliant time travel theme takes players through diverse stages, from the bustling streets of present-day New York to prehistoric jungles, pirate ships, and even futuristic cityscapes. Each level design is distinct and packed with environmental hazards and interactive elements. The boss battles against classic villains like Leatherhead, Bebop, Rocksteady, and Krang are challenging and memorable. The true magic, however, lies in the 2-player co-op multiplayer, which amplifies the chaotic fun as you and a friend tag-team Foot Soldiers and other baddies.

• Engaging beat ’em up action with intuitive controls
• Four playable Turtles with distinct feels
• Iconic “throw enemies into the screen” mechanic
• Diverse time-traveling level themes
• Excellent 2-player local co-op multiplayer

Story and Setting: Shredder’s Temporal Scheme

The narrative of TMNT IV is classic Turtles fare. Shredder, accompanied by Krang, steals the Statue of Liberty and then banishes the Turtles through time. It’s up to the heroes in a half-shell to pursue them through different historical eras to thwart their nefarious plans. The story is lighthearted and serves as a perfect excuse for the varied settings and encounters.

Graphics and Sound: 16-bit Cartoon Perfection

Visually, Turtles in Time SNES is a standout on the 16-bit console. The graphics are vibrant and colorful, with large, expressive character sprites and detailed backgrounds that perfectly capture the look and feel of the popular animated series. The animations are fluid, making every punch, kick, and special move feel impactful. The game truly looks like an interactive cartoon.

The soundtrack is phenomenal, featuring catchy tunes that perfectly complement the action and memorable voice samples from the cartoon, including the famous “Cowabunga!” and “Pizza Power!” cries. The sound effects are punchy and satisfying, adding to the overall arcade feel.

Legacy: A Beloved Arcade Port

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time is widely considered one of the best arcade ports to a home console and a high point for licensed games. Its enduring popularity led to its inclusion in various retro collections. It remains a cherished retro gaming title and a testament to Konami’s quality during the 16-bit era.

Is TMNT IV: Turtles in Time on SNES Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. TMNT IV: Turtles in Time on the SNES is a timeless classic that holds up remarkably well. Its simple yet addictive beat ’em up gameplay, vibrant visuals, and iconic soundtrack make it a joy to revisit, especially with a friend. For fans of TMNT, retro gaming, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging co-op action game, this is a must-play.