Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Juggernauts delivers a fast-paced compilation of mini-games that draw inspiration from early ’90s competition shows like American Gladiators. Each event casts Bart Simpson in a comical challenge against over-the-top Springfield characters, offering a lighthearted twist on sports and obstacle courses. From skateboarding down a twisty ramp to grappling in a wrestling ring against a burly opponent, the variety of contests keeps you on your toes throughout the campaign.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

Controls are intentionally simple, reflecting the arcade heritage of the genre. You’ll combine basic button presses with timed jumps, tackles, and power moves to overcome each hurdle. While this simplicity makes the game immediately accessible, it can also lead to moments of frustration when split-second timing is required. Some events feel more polished than others—skateboarding runs smoothly, but the basketball shoot-out occasionally suffers from awkward camera angles that make depth perception tricky.

Progression is structured as a tournament: win three rounds in each discipline to face the final “Juggernaut” boss. Between events, Bart receives quips from Krusty the Clown and encouragement from Lisa, injecting Simpsons humor into the flow. Replay value hinges on unlocking bonus challenges and beating high scores. Though there’s no built-in career mode or branching paths, chasing faster times and perfect scores adds a competitive edge for completionists and multiplayer showdowns.

Graphics

The visual style faithfully captures the look and feel of The Simpsons’ animated universe. Character sprites are colorful and instantly recognizable—Bart’s spiky hair, Moe’s gruff expression, and Mr. Burns’ sinister grin all pop against bright, cartoonish backdrops. The developers have done a great job replicating the series’ 2D aesthetic, giving the game a charming, storybook quality that stands out among other licensed titles of its era.

Animation frames vary by event: skateboarding sequences boast smooth motion as Bart ollies and slides, while wrestling encounters chug along with stiffer frames that feel more dated. Backgrounds are packed with Springfield landmarks—Duff Stadium, Krustyland banners, even cameo appearances by supporting characters cheering from the sidelines. These details immerse you in the show’s atmosphere, though occasional sprite flicker and slowdown can surface when too many elements appear on screen.

On hardware capable of vibrant color output, you’ll appreciate the bold palette and clean lines. Sound effects are sampled directly from the show’s slapstick repertoire—rim creaks, crowd roars, and Bart’s triumphant “Ay caramba!” punctuate each victory. Music tracks lean into upbeat, carnival-style jingles, reinforcing the game show parody. While not pushing technical boundaries, the graphics and audio combine to create a cohesive and nostalgic presentation.

Story

Story in Bart vs. the Juggernauts is minimal but functional, serving mainly as a narrative thread to tie together the mini-games. The premise is simple: Springfield has launched its own hyper-competitive series of contests, and mischievous Bart is the unlikely contestant. Between events, short cutscenes feature quick jokes and spectator reactions that add flavor without bogging down the pace.

The humor leans heavily on familiar Simpsons gags—Bart’s rebellious asides, overheard quips from bystanders like Milhouse and Nelson, and crisp one-liners from side characters. While there’s no deep character development, fans will enjoy spotting cameos and hearing voice samples that echo the show’s wit. The story progression is linear: win event after event until you’re crowned champion, then face an overblown final boss match.

Visually, the narrative scenes are presented through title cards and brief animations rather than fully voiced sequences, which keeps the focus on gameplay. This approach works in the game’s favor, ensuring momentum stays high and players don’t lose interest waiting for story beats. If you’re seeking a rich, multi-chapter narrative, this isn’t the title—but for a lighthearted spin on Simpsons antics, it hits the mark.

Overall Experience

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Juggernauts shines as a casual, pick-up-and-play party game. Its straightforward events and familiar characters make it perfect for group competitions or quick solo sessions. The mix of skateboarding, wrestling, basketball, and other zany contests ensures there’s enough variety to keep you engaged through multiple playthroughs. Fans of the show will appreciate the tongue-in-cheek references and the chance to step into Bart’s shoes as he battles Springfield’s toughest challengers.

On the downside, the game’s simplicity means there’s limited depth for those seeking a lengthy, skill-based experience. Some mini-games become repetitive once you’ve mastered the timing, and the lack of a robust progression system might leave completionists wanting more. Technical hiccups like occasional slowdown and hit-detection quirks can dampen the fun, though they rarely derail an entire session.

Ultimately, Bart vs. the Juggernauts offers an enjoyable, nostalgia-driven romp that will resonate most with Simpsons enthusiasts and families looking for light competition. While it doesn’t reinvent the mini-game wheel, its vibrant presentation and playful tone earn it a spot in any fan’s collection. If you’re after a breezy, humor-packed contest in Springfield’s finest tradition, this title delivers plenty of laughs and memorable moments.

Retro Replay Score

7.1/10