Smash TV Arcade Manual: Mastering the Mayhem

"Smash TV," released in 1990, is a classic arcade game developed by Williams and designed by Eugene Jarvis and Mark Turmell. The game is heavily inspired by the 1987 film "The Running Man," featuring a dystopian future where contestants fight for their lives in a deadly game show. The game became widely popular for its intense, fast-paced gameplay, twin-stick shooter mechanics, and the opportunity for players to collect massive amounts of virtual prizes.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the game's mechanics, strategies, and tips to help you dominate the arcade floor. Whether you're a novice stepping into the arena for the first time or a seasoned veteran seeking to sharpen your skills, this manual covers everything you need to know about "Smash TV."

Game Overview

"Smash TV" is a multi-directional shooter where the player controls a contestant in a violent game show set in the year 1999. The objective is to survive waves of enemies, collect cash and prizes, and ultimately defeat the game show’s bosses. Players use a twin-stick control scheme: one joystick moves the character, while the other controls the direction of shooting. This allows for 360-degree firing, making it possible to dodge and shoot in different directions simultaneously.

The game is divided into several stages, each culminating in a boss fight. As players progress, they face increasingly difficult enemies, including foot soldiers, tanks, and massive bosses. The arenas are filled with power-ups, cash, and prizes, rewarding players who take risks and explore every corner of the game.

Basic Controls

Understanding the controls is the first step to mastering "Smash TV":

• Joystick 1: Controls character movement.
• Joystick 2: Controls the direction of fire.
• Start Button: Begins the game.
• Power-Ups: Collected by moving over them.

Power-Ups and Weapons

Power-ups are scattered throughout the game, and collecting them is crucial for survival:

• Speed Boost: Increases the player’s movement speed.
• Spread Gun: Shoots multiple bullets in a wide arc.
• Grenades: Explosive rounds that deal heavy damage.
• Rockets: Powerful projectiles that can take out groups of enemies.
• Shield: Grants temporary invincibility.

Mastering the use of these power-ups can mean the difference between life and death in the arena.

Enemies and Bosses

"Smash TV" features a variety of enemies, each with unique behaviors and attack patterns:

• Foot Soldiers: The most common enemy, often attacking in large numbers.
• Snakeoids: Snake-like enemies that move in unpredictable patterns.
• Mutoid Man: The first major boss, a gigantic cyborg that requires precise shooting and strategy to defeat.
• Scarface: A fast-moving boss with powerful attacks.
• Cobra Twins: Twin bosses that attack simultaneously, requiring split-second decision-making.

Each boss fight is a test of the player's reflexes and strategy, with specific weak points to target.

Strategies for Success

Here are some tips to help you survive the relentless onslaught in "Smash TV":

• Stay on the Move: Standing still is a recipe for disaster. Constant movement makes it harder for enemies to surround you.
• Prioritize Power-Ups: Always go for power-ups, especially those that grant invincibility or increased firepower.
• Learn Enemy Patterns: Recognizing and anticipating enemy movements can give you the edge in battle.
• Focus on Boss Weak Points: Each boss has specific weak points; focus your fire on these areas to bring them down faster.
• Co-op Play: Playing with a partner can make the game easier, as you can cover each other's blind spots and coordinate attacks on bosses.

Level Breakdown

"Smash TV" is divided into several distinct levels, each with its own challenges:

• Arena 1: Collect Money and Prizes
  The first level introduces you to the basic mechanics. It’s relatively easy but serves as a primer for the chaos to come.

• Arena 2: Avoid the Mines
  This level introduces mines scattered throughout the arena. They explode on contact, adding another layer of danger.

• Arena 3: Collect the Keys
  Keys are necessary to progress. They’re often placed in risky locations, forcing you to balance risk and reward.

• Arena 4: Mutoid Man
  The first boss fight. Mutoid Man is a massive, heavily armored cyborg. Focus on destroying his limbs to weaken him.

• Arena 5: Survival of the Fittest
  This level ramps up the difficulty with faster and more numerous enemies. Staying calm and focused is key.

• Arena 6: The Pleasure Dome
  The final level, featuring the toughest enemies and the most dangerous traps. This is where your skills are truly tested.

Unlockables and Secrets

"Smash TV" is known for its secrets and hidden bonuses. Here are some tips to unlock these:

• Pleasure Dome: To access the secret Pleasure Dome level, you must collect 10 keys throughout the game.
• Extra Lives: Occasionally, extra lives are hidden in the environment. Keep an eye out for areas that look suspicious or difficult to reach.
• Bonus Rooms: Some levels contain hidden bonus rooms filled with cash and power-ups. Explore every corner of the map to find them.

Legacy and Impact

"Smash TV" was a commercial success and remains a beloved classic in the arcade community. It influenced many twin-stick shooters that followed and is still regarded as one of the best examples of the genre. The game's intense action, memorable bosses, and innovative controls have left a lasting legacy in the world of video games.

In recent years, "Smash TV" has been re-released on various platforms, allowing new generations of gamers to experience its chaotic fun. The game’s blend of high-stakes action and tongue-in-cheek humor continues to resonate with players, making it a timeless entry in the arcade canon.

Conclusion

Mastering "Smash TV" requires quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and a keen understanding of the game’s mechanics. With this manual, you now have the knowledge to survive the deadly arenas and emerge as a champion. Whether you're aiming to beat the game solo or with a friend, these tips and strategies will help you achieve victory and claim your place in arcade history.

Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor as you take on the mayhem of "Smash TV"!