Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: The Manhattan Project Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: The Manhattan Project, developed and published by Konami, hit the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1991. Following the arcade-style success of *TMNT II: The Arcade Game*, this third NES installment refined the beat ’em up formula, delivering what many consider the pinnacle of 8-bit Turtle Power. This TMNT 3 NES review explores its improved gameplay, authentic presentation, and why it remains a cherished classic NES game.

Gameplay: Enhanced Combat and Unique Special Moves

The Manhattan Project builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessor, offering a side-scrolling beat ’em up experience that is both engaging and challenging. Players can choose from any of the four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, or Raphael – each with their own distinct weapons and, crucially, unique special attacks. Unlike previous games where special moves were generic, here, each Turtle has a personalized, powerful move (e.g., Leo’s sword dash, Donatello’s pole vault) that drains a small amount of health, adding a strategic element to combat.

The game’s combat feels tighter and more responsive, allowing for satisfying combos and effective crowd control against hordes of Foot Clan soldiers and other mutants. The level design is varied and creative, taking the Turtles from the streets of New York to cruise ships, airports, and eventually the Technodrome. Each stage culminates in a boss fight against classic villains like Bebop, Rocksteady, Slash, and, of course, Shredder and Krang. The 2-player co-op multiplayer is the ideal way to experience the game, doubling the fun and providing much-needed assistance against the game’s later challenges. Health pizzas and other power-ups are strategically placed throughout levels to aid the Turtles.

• Refined beat ’em up combat with improved responsiveness
• Unique and distinct special attacks for each Turtle
• Varied level design and challenging boss fights
• Excellent 2-player local co-op multiplayer
• Authentic roster of TMNT heroes and villains

Story and Setting: Shredder’s Latest Scheme

The narrative of The Manhattan Project is a classic Saturday morning cartoon plot. While the Turtles are enjoying a vacation in Florida, Shredder, accompanied by Krang, steals the entire island of Manhattan, lifting it into the sky. It’s up to the Heroes in a Half-Shell to fight their way through various stages, defeat Shredder’s forces, and bring Manhattan back down to Earth.

The game’s setting and presentation perfectly capture the whimsical and action-packed tone of the popular 1987 animated series, making it instantly recognizable and enjoyable for fans.

Graphics and Sound: 8-bit Cartoon Authenticity

Visually, TMNT III: The Manhattan Project on the NES is impressive for its hardware. The graphics are vibrant and colorful, with larger, more detailed character sprites than previous NES installments. The animations are fluid, especially during the Turtles’ special moves, and the environmental details are well-executed. The game’s aesthetic is remarkably faithful to the cartoon.

The sound design is a highlight. The game features energetic and catchy 8-bit renditions of the classic TMNT theme song and other memorable tunes that perfectly capture the adventurous and action-packed mood. The sound effects for punches, kicks, and weapon swings are impactful, adding to the satisfying combat.

Legacy: The Best TMNT Beat ‘Em Up on NES

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: The Manhattan Project is widely regarded as the strongest TMNT beat ’em up on the NES. It refined the gameplay, added much-needed character variety, and delivered a truly authentic cartoon experience. It’s a definitive classic NES game and a must-play for fans of the franchise.

Is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: The Manhattan Project on NES Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For retro gaming enthusiasts, beat ’em up fans, or anyone looking for a fun and challenging family-friendly experience, TMNT 3 NES is a must-play. Its tight gameplay, charming graphics, and iconic soundtrack offer an endlessly enjoyable and rewarding adventure. Grab a friend, yell “Cowabunga!”, and dive into this 8-bit classic!