There are a lot of video games out there and in this era of mobile and home-based gaming, the choices have never been greater. So how do you cut through the noise and find the “Best of” for any chosen topic?
Well, we’re here to help celebrate and shine a spotlight on some of the latest, greatest, and unforgettable games through the years.
For our ongoing series of articles depicting the best video games, our attention this time turns to games based on cartoons. From popular shows like SpongeBob to obscure programs like DuckTales, there’s sure to be a cartoon-based game listed here that resonates with you.
However, if we’ve missed any of your favorites, feel free to comment below and we’ll get them added on!
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom is a phenomenal game that captures the essence of the beloved series it’s based on. The game faithfully recreates the show’s humor, art style, and quirky characters. This allows fans to interact with their favorite character on deeper levels. From SpongeBob’s enthusiasm to Patrick’s cluelessness, this game stays true to the cartoon’s spirit.
Furthermore, Battle for Bikini Bottom delivers engaging gameplay mechanics with its stellar platforming, puzzle-solving, and combat elements. In it, players control SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy as they navigate various levels infested with evil robots and crude inhabitants. Each character has an arsenal of abilities to help them stand out. From Sandy’s lasso to SpongeBob’s bubble-blowing skills, you’re in for a phenomenal time with this game.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time is a challenging beat ’em-up game that faithfully captures the soul of the TMNT franchise. The beat ’em up gameplay is fast-paced and complements the turtles’ agile fighting styles phenomenally. Players can choose to play as all four turtles, and they all maintain their solid personalities and set of skills from the iconic show.
This game features great multiplayer functionality. This allows players to team up with their buddies to battle the turtles’ notable foes. The game features many iconic locations from the show that fans will instantly recognize. With its rich dialogue, compelling graphics, and challenging level design, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time provides beat ’em-up fanatics with a worthy and memorable challenge.
South Park: The Stick of Truth
South Park: The Stick of Truth is a fantastic RPG based on one of television’s most insane adult-themed animated works. Developed by Ubisoft with assistance from the show’s creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, The Stick of Truth fully captures the show’s witty writing, art style, and controversial themes. From its hilarious dialogue to its memorable cast, you’ll have a blast playing this game.
This game relies heavily on its turn-based combat and features satisfying exploration and puzzle-solving elements. In it, you assume the role of the new kid in South Park and embark on a quest to become a true hero. You’ll join forces with Cartman, Kyle, Stand, and Kenny, each retaining their iconic appearances and personalities from the cartoon.
If you adore games with fun bosses, pop culture references, and great characters, check this one out.
DuckTales
DuckTales is an incredible game based on the hit show. In it, players control Disney’s Scrooge McDuck, as he embarks on a treasure-hunting quest around the world.
This game captures the charismatic and adventurous aspects of the cartoon. As for its gameplay, it combines platforming and exploration elements with tight controls. This allows players to traverse its harsh environments, defeat enemies, and uncover secrets as the popular and rich duck.
Scrooge’s cane serves as a versatile tool in the game. It’ll help you avoid obstacles, defeat baddies, and interact with the environment in many creative and helpful manners.
DuckTales features a non-linear level design, encouraging players to explore and discover different paths to find intriguing collectibles. The challenging yet fair difficulty level adds excitement and depth to the game.
In addition to having a captivating art style, DuckTales is a wonderful game that’ll appeal to hardcore Disney enthusiasts.
The Simpsons: Hit and Run
No cartoon-based video game list would be complete without mentioning this masterful gem. The Simpsons: Hit and Run is a classic video game based on the ongoing adult animated comedy. This game puts players in control of various Simpsons characters as they traverse through the sprawling city of Springfield. You’ll complete missions, wreak havoc, and collect items during your adventure.
Hit and Run’s open-world gameplay mechanics are enticing. You’ll adore roaming Springfield on foot or in the game’s numerous vehicles, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in The Simpsons’ universe. The game’s side missions are fun and imaginative. From engaging in street races to delivering items for Marge, the game features a range of activities to keep players entertained.
Scooby-Doo! Night Of 100 Frights
It’ll be difficult to find anyone who hasn’t heard of Scooby Doo before. Fortunately, Scooby and his friends have a stellar game you can introduce people to, just in case they haven’t heard of him or the show he airs from.
Scooby-Doo! Night of 100 Frights places you in control of Scooby-Doo as he explores haunted locations and solves mysteries. This game excels at capturing the show’s iconic art style and character designs. It includes the iconic voice talents of the original cast, adding an extra layer of authenticity and nostalgia for players. From its well-known villains to its eerie settings, Night of 100 Frights strikes all the right chords to make players feel like they’re stepping into an episode of the show.
With its mix of platforming, exploration, and combat elements, you’ll enjoy playing this Scooby-Doo video game.
Darkwing Duck
Darkwing Duck is a fantastic NES Game based on the masked hero Darkwing Duck. In it, you control Darkwing Duck and must fight criminals in the iconic city of St. Canard. The game perfectly captures the essence of the animated series, with its action-packed platforming elements, witty dialogue, and handling of the show’s cast.
From Darkwing’s iconic gadgets to its portrayal of St. Canard, Darkwing Duck fans will love this game for its strong attention to detail. The gameplay can be challenging and rewarding. You’ll find yourself fighting numerous enemies from the show while collecting new power-ups and items. The game includes some satisfying boss battles and hidden secrets to entice you to keep playing it.
Along with its catchy soundtrack, this game is a great game for those who love platformers or Darkwing Duck.
Aladdin
Aladdin is a classic Disney animated film that managed to receive a stellar video game. This game was released on numerous platforms from the Super Nintendo to the Sega Genesis.
The developers did an excellent job at bringing Disney’s captivating film to life with this game. One of its best aspects lies in its stunning visuals. Aladdin’s graphics are colorful, detailed, and highly reminiscent of the film. From the crowded streets filled with merchants to the majestic palace, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into Aladdin’s world.
The gameplay is phenomenal with its blend of platforming, action, and puzzle-solving elements. You’ll love swinging on ropes and deflecting enemies’ attacks with Aladdin’s sword, keeping the gameplay dynamic and exciting.
In addition to successfully integrating cutscenes from the animated film into its gameplay, the Aladdin video game is just as immersive and exciting as the animated work it’s based on.
Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time
Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time is a splendid game that faithfully replicates Samurai Jack’s art style and world. This game features visuals that mirror the distinct aesthetic found in the animated work. From detailed character models to beautifully designed environments, every element is crafted with love and care.
The gameplay is riveting and delightful too. You’ll assume the role of Jack and engage in intense combat with various enemies. You’ll utilize different melee weapons, ranged attacks, and special abilities during Jack’s adventure. The combat feels smooth and satisfying, allowing players to execute flashy moves reminiscent of those found in the cartoon.
In addition to having a fancy soundtrack and neat platforming components, Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time is worth adding to your gaming catalog.
Castle Of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse
Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse is an outstanding game featuring Disney’s trademark mascot, Mickey Mouse. In it, players must assist Mickey on his quest to save Minnie from an evil witch named Mizrabel.
This game boasts vibrant graphics, imaginative-level design, and memorable boss battles. One of its greatest strengths lies in its visuals. The game’s graphics are colorful, detailed, and beautifully animated. They bring each level to life in a way that’s reminiscent of a classic Disney cartoon.
Each area contains enough challenging enemies, intricate backgrounds, and well-placed secrets to encourage players to traverse them. Together with its fun platforming mechanics and whimsical soundtrack, Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse is a great Sega Genesis game everyone should play if they’re a fan of Disney’s iconic mouse.
So, there we have it, our pick for the best video games based on cartoons through the years!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!
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