Released by Bandai in 1991, Frankenstein: The Monster Returns is a curious late-generation action-platformer that abandons Mary Shelley’s Gothic tragedy in favor of a supernatural B-movie aesthetic. The game positions a resurrected, demonic Frankenstein as a world-conquering villain who has laid waste to several villages and abducted a local maiden. Players take control of a sword-wielding hero—not a scientist, but a warrior—tasked with fighting through four distinct stages of macabre mayhem. As a late-release NES title, it benefits from seasoned developers who knew how to push the hardware, resulting in large, detailed sprites and atmospheric backgrounds that manage to evoke a genuine sense of dread.
The gameplay is a straightforward hybrid of Castlevania’s combat and the frantic pace of Ghosts 'n Goblins. You begin with basic punches but quickly upgrade to swords and maces that can fire projectiles, which is essential for managing the aggressive enemy AI. The level design is surprisingly varied, featuring traditional side-scrolling graveyards, vertical climbs through burning villages, and even a unique hang-gliding sequence that breaks up the standard platforming. However, the experience is slightly marred by stiff movement and a punishing knock-back mechanic. Taking a hit often results in your character flying backward into a pit, a common frustration for NES-era gamers that requires pixel-perfect positioning.
Ultimately, while it doesn't reach the heights of Konami's genre-defining classics, Frankenstein: The Monster Returns is a hidden gem for horror enthusiasts. The boss encounters are the standout feature, showcasing creative interpretations of Medusa, mummies, and a final confrontation with a gargantuan, monstrous version of the titular creature. It stands as a testament to the NES’s longevity, offering a solid, challenging experience for those who remained loyal to the 8-bit hardware after the 16-bit revolution had already begun. It is a charmingly dark, if unoriginal, swan song for the platform's horror library.
