Smash T.V. (1991). Play Free Online

Summary

The NES version of Smash T.V. replaces the classic twin‑sticks with a clever workaround: the directional pad on the second controller dictates the direction you fire, while the first controller moves your character. Pulling off two‑player action requires a multitap so both gamers can each have a “shooting stick."

Each level is a single‑screen arena where enemies spill in relentless waves, and the challenge is to dash, dodge and blast through using whatever weapons and cash you pick up. Power‑ups range from rapid‑fire upgrades to extra lives, keeping the pace frantic and rewarding skillful play.

Scattered throughout are keys that unlock the secret bonus area known as the Pleasure Dome – a feature the original arcade version didn’t include until a later revision. Finding those keys adds a layer of exploration to the pure shoot‑‘em‑up madness, giving NES owners a little extra prize to hunt for.

Storyline

Smash TV drops you into a dystopian television game show set in the imagined year 1999. One or two players blast through endless waves of attackers while scooping up cash, VCRs, toasters and other prizes, plus occasional power‑ups.

After clearing an arena the exit leads to a new room, some of which hide a boss fight. In two‑player mode the experience is cooperative, and the contestant who amasses the most loot earns an extra reward.

A manic host narrates the carnage with lines like “Total carnage! I love it!” and “Big money! Big prizes! I love it!” The game’s aesthetic draws heavily from the dystopian films RoboCop and The Running Man.

Edited by Maya Carter