Retro Review: Whomp ‘Em – A Stomp Through Tradition

Whomp ‘Em, released for the NES in March 1991 in North America, is an often overlooked platformer that takes players on a journey through various levels inspired by Native American mythology. With its roots in the Japanese game “Saiyūki World 2: Tenjōkai no Majin,” which itself is based on the Chinese novel “Journey to the West,” Whomp ‘Em underwent cultural localization for a Western audience, transforming its protagonist into a Native American warrior named Soaring Eagle.

Gameplay and Mechanics

At its core, Whomp ‘Em is a traditional side-scrolling platformer. Players guide Soaring Eagle through a series of diverse levels, each with unique environmental challenges and enemies. The game starts in a central hub area where players can select from six totem poles, representing different stages that can be tackled in any order—a feature reminiscent of the Mega Man series.

The controls are straightforward and responsive, with Soaring Eagle wielding his spear to vanquish foes and navigate the terrain. The spear isn’t just for combat; it doubles as a tool for pole-vaulting across platforms, adding a layer of strategy to the standard jump-and-run formula.

Visuals and Sound

For its time, Whomp ‘Em boasted vibrant graphics with well-defined sprites and colorful backgrounds. Each stage is distinct, with themes ranging from frozen landscapes to volcanic caverns, keeping the visual experience fresh.

The music of Whomp ‘Em is catchy and appropriate for the setting, although it doesn’t quite reach the iconic status of other NES classics. Nonetheless, the energetic chiptunes contribute positively to the overall atmosphere.

Power-ups and Difficulty

As Soaring Eagle progresses through the levels, defeating bosses grants power-ups that enhance his abilities. These power-ups provide new combat moves and utility, such as a charge attack or a healing dance, offering a sense of progression and customization.

The game’s difficulty is moderate, with a fair learning curve that allows players to master the mechanics without feeling too frustrated. However, the absence of a save or password system means that Whomp ‘Em demands to be completed in one sitting, a common trait of many NES games.

Conclusion

Whomp ‘Em is a hidden gem in the NES library, providing solid platforming action with a unique setting not commonly explored in games from that era. While it may not have the name recognition of Mario or Mega Man, it stands on its own with a charming presentation and engaging gameplay.

For retro gaming enthusiasts looking to unearth a piece of platforming history, Whomp ‘Em is certainly worth a playthrough. It may not whomp the competition, but it certainly holds its own as a fun and enjoyable title from the NES’s golden years.