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NEC TG-16/TE/TurboDuo => TG-16/TE/TurboDuo Discussion => Topic started by: T.A.P. on September 22, 2012, 03:32:19 AM

Title: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: T.A.P. on September 22, 2012, 03:32:19 AM
I've tried repeatedly to get into them, but they just never click for me. They just feel like generic 90's platformers to me.

For those of you that enjoy them, what is it about them you like?
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: FiftyQuid on September 22, 2012, 03:34:40 AM
I've tried repeatedly to get into them, but they just never click for me. They just feel like generic 90's platformers to me.

For those of you that enjoy them, what is it about them you like?
They are generic 90's platformers, but you're playing them on the TurboGrafx-16.  The spin attack and just the general humour of the game is what made them unique.  At the time, these games were some of the most colourful games ever produced.  Myself, I enjoy the music and the bosses.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Jibbajaba on September 22, 2012, 05:36:47 AM
Do you like platformers, or not so much?  I think that they're cool, but if you're not that into the genre, then I could see why you don't enjoy them.  I think they have great graphics and sound, tight controls, cool environments (level variation and atmosphere), and unique gameplay elements.  Can't really ask for much more out of a cartoony, kid-friendly platformer.

Chris
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Bernie on September 22, 2012, 05:47:48 AM
Ahhhh!  Blasphemy! Bonk rules!
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: TheClash603 on September 22, 2012, 08:12:56 AM
The spin mechanic is what made the game different and worthwhile.  Additionally, the graphics are bright and fun, and some of the enemies are really funny and there is more charm to the game than most platformers.

Only thing I never liked about the game was climbing or swimming, wish that wasn't in there.  Otherwise, it is a lot of fun.

...New Adventure Island is better  :)
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Black Tiger on September 22, 2012, 09:30:30 AM
What I've always loved about the Turbo/PCE Bonk games is how much they don't feel like generic 90's platformers to me. Too many 16-bit (and SMS) platformers tried to fit a generic mold for 16-bit platformers that was heavily influenced by the Sonic series. They would build an engine around too-huge jumps and flying around and minimized actual platforming... and then just shoehorned in the rest of the game as an afterthought. Most platformers in general also have uninspired character designs and art. Bonk feels unique and fun as a game (with great design and stage layout), but the art and aesthetics really tie it together and make it a very special and solid all-round experience. This is made all the more apparent by non-Turbo Bonk games that broke the experience by failing to maintain too many of the aspects that make Bonk great.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: HercTNT on September 22, 2012, 09:33:12 AM
Agreed, i love bonk for how it feels different than other platformers. How you feel about it though depends on how much you like platformers from the get go.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turboswimbz on September 22, 2012, 10:01:38 AM
Bonk's Adventure was the first game I ever played as a kid.  So to me every other 90 platformer is just a copy of Bonk.  I still play them today from time to time. here's what keeps me coming back:  
1) I love the artwork, graphics and fun themes.  
2) The games sound great and play well.  
3) They had enough variety with the bonus games and such to allow for some replay value too.
4) The spin and head bonk aspect still make me smile everytime I play.  
5) I thought that the games also where challenging enough without being fustrating.
 
    To play the other side, No there isn't anything that AMAZING about the bonk series.  It's just a good solid series. Which still hard to come by, and harder yet on the TG16.  
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: CPTRAVE on September 22, 2012, 10:58:52 AM
The artwork ,sound, the colors are great, its a game where you can relax and enjoy it, it is not stressful at all.  :P
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Drakon on September 22, 2012, 11:40:24 AM
Everything.  Even the music.  There's a definite theme going on with these games.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: tggodfrey on September 22, 2012, 12:40:57 PM
In my eyes. they were revolutionary when they came out.  Colors. graphics, concepts were differnt than the 8 bit molds that mario produced.  Many of us grew up with them as they came out and that adds a great deal of interest becuase you get to relive the enjoyment you had back then.  thats what it is for me.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: vestcoat on September 22, 2012, 02:47:09 PM
In my eyes. they were revolutionary when they came out.  Colors. graphics, concepts were differnt than the 8 bit molds that mario produced. 

I can't speak for Bonk's Adventure because I didn't play it until the late Nineties, but Bonk's Revenge was pretty impressive when it came out. The graphics and sound really felt like a 16-bit title and something new.

These days, Bonk's Adventure is the only game in the series that continues to stand out for me. The play control is better and it doesn't get bogged down with an excess of bonus rounds.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KnightWarrior on September 22, 2012, 03:51:02 PM
I like all Bonk Games

TurboGrafx/NES/Game Boy

Bonk's Adventure on the TG-16 is better
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: HercTNT on September 22, 2012, 03:57:57 PM
Gameboy and nes bonks are decently made. i play them from time to time. they are just not as good as the turbo versions.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: BigusSchmuck on September 22, 2012, 04:18:18 PM
You have to remember, when these games came out there wasn't Sonic or Mario World (at least for the first game) and what you really had to compare to other plat-formers at the time were pretty much 8 bit NES/SMS games so in that sense it was definitely revolutionary. I am curious though when Bonk's Revenge came out in Japan and compare it to the release of Mario World and Sonic to see which came first. Otherwise, I think they are pretty good games and deserve some praise.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: NightWolve on September 22, 2012, 04:21:02 PM
In my eyes. they were revolutionary when they came out.  Colors. graphics, concepts were differnt than the 8 bit molds that mario produced.  

I can't speak for Bonk's Adventure because I didn't play it until the late Nineties, but Bonk's Revenge was pretty impressive when it came out. The graphics and sound really felt like a 16-bit title and something new.

These days, Bonk's Adventure is the only game in the series that continues to stand out for me. The play control is better and it doesn't get bogged down with an excess of bonus rounds.

I kinda agree, I think the first one is actually the best game overall. When Bonk's Revenge came out, I was impressed by the colorful graphics but I just didn't like it as much in the end; I was happy to have rented and beaten it though. As for Bonk III (which I bought after TTi was going out of business), while it's cool that Bonk can go all super-size taking up about 1/3 of the screen flicker-free, and that it provided another decent adventure game for the system, I was really bothered by the background music; it really just bored the shit out of me... My judgment though is limited by the fact that it was a long time ago since I beat it and any time I've fired it up, I can't seem to force myself past the 1st level's boring music... It just makes me go, "Eh, no thanks... Bye."
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: ParanoiaDragon on September 22, 2012, 09:18:48 PM
Yeah, the music took a nose dive in Bonk 3.  I think it's partially because of them using a different sound engine.  Any bongo's you hear in Bonk 3, are very tame compared to 1 & 2.  But even in general, the music lost some of it's Bonkness.  For me, it wasn't until Super Bonk 2, that the Bonk soundtracks started improving again(though, there was too much wacky music in that one), & then ofcoarse, that ended up being the last new Bonk game.  Super Bonk 1 had a few redeeming tracks, but it bored me even more then Bonk 3's music.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Tatsujin on September 23, 2012, 12:06:54 AM
for me as well 1 > 2 >> 3.

what does make pc genjin / bonk so special is the fact that it IS so special.
it's fresh and great gameplay, it's humor, very nice level design and grafics, it's music/FX and last but not least the character itself, which is one of the cutest and unique ever created in the whole world of video games.

how can one not like it is beyond my comprehension.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: fragmare on September 23, 2012, 01:28:10 AM
I can understand you not seeing the big hubbub about Bonk's Adventure, but Bonk's Revenge?  Bonk's Revenge is the shit, flat out.  Easily makes the list of top 10 16-bit era platform games.  Maybe even top 5.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Mathius on September 23, 2012, 02:36:47 AM
Bonk's Adventure has a certain magic and charm to it that the others lack. Take the music that plays as you are being lowered into a boss chamber-it really sets a mood that isn't replicated in any other game on any platform.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: 420GOAT on September 23, 2012, 06:28:26 AM
what? ....get out. i like the baby caveman or kid concept. i like that he chews his way up cliffs and shit. he has no weapons besides his naugen. he gets hot when he eats meat. he makes dinosaurs cry. thats just the beginning.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turbokon on September 23, 2012, 07:25:52 AM
Bonk's Adventure has a certain magic and charm to it that the others lack. Take the music that plays as you are being lowered into a boss chamber-it really sets a mood that isn't replicated in any other game on any platform.

I love that part too!! I enjoy the play mechanic, the soundtracks and the graphics of the bosses. Couldn't get into bonk 3 though.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: TheClash603 on September 23, 2012, 08:13:59 AM
Anyone ever play Chuck Rock 2: Son of Chuck?

That was a game that obviously ripped off some of the Bonk charm, but was a lot of fun.  Don't know why I just thought of that...
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KingDrool on September 23, 2012, 08:27:58 AM
From a gameplay standpoint, sure, these games aren't mindblowing. Yet there are a lot of aspects that are pretty unique to the series. But like a lot of folks have already said, it's the overall feel of the games that really make it for me; at least the first two games. They're colorful as hell, the music is fantastic, and Bonk and the side cast of characters are so damn endearing. Bonk's Adventure is my favorite game of all time, and though I admit much of that is due to nostalgia, it's also because it's a really great game.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: BigusSchmuck on September 23, 2012, 08:53:32 AM
Anyone ever play Chuck Rock 2: Son of Chuck?

That was a game that obviously ripped off some of the Bonk charm, but was a lot of fun.  Don't know why I just thought of that...
That and Joe and Mac. I haven't played any of those games in years.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Bardoly on September 23, 2012, 09:17:08 AM
The Joe & MAC games are great!  I've played both 1 and 2 this year (on the SNES) and really enjoyed them, although I haven't beaten either one yet.

But yes, I agree that they were probably influenced in some way by the Bonk games (which are quite good, by the way).
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turboswimbz on September 23, 2012, 09:40:39 AM
I love joe and mack, influenced maybe, but it doesn't have the same flow and awesome-ness bonk does.  + the end of joe and mac gets annoying as shit, way to fustrating trying to make it the end of the stages.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Tatsujin on September 23, 2012, 09:59:07 AM
Joe & mac was only fun in the arcade.
the snes port was a big downgrade and the
stretched levels were not the best idea to
make the game more enjoyable.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 23, 2012, 10:51:44 AM
I've tried repeatedly to get into them, but they just never click for me. They just feel like generic 90's platformers to me.

For those of you that enjoy them, what is it about them you like?



ANSWER: I have no choice. PRINCESS ZA NEEDS TO GET BACK TO MOONLAND. I must help her.


http://junk.tg-16.com/audio/Slime_World/Slime_World_05.mp3
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: HercTNT on September 23, 2012, 12:44:35 PM
Joe & mac was only fun in the arcade.
the snes port was a big downgrade and the
stretched levels were not the best idea to
make the game more enjoyable.

sorry tats, gotta disagree with you on this one. joe and mac arcade is no doubt a great game, but also very hard. you can beat it, as with any arcade game, if you shove in enough quarters. the snes version may have been missing some stuff, but it was beatable within the confines of the difficulty settings, and still very enjoyable.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: RegalSin on September 23, 2012, 02:04:20 PM
1. Platformer is just the western word for J-rpg becuase they can't just say action, game.
Western videogames had no idea, all we had in the west was tron and Atari before Super Mario Brothers.

2. Bonk is what is called a Dinosaur game. Dinosaur game genre, took place in a bushy world,
with a prehistoric character, and would proceed in a j-rpg ( Adventure island/Wonder boy ) fashion. What is so auwsome about that game is their are sooo many things to interact with
in the world itself, and the funny animations. If you ever played Doramon, or other games like this, you will understand.

3. Another way to look at this is a starter game, like Kirby. Kirby was made for young kids, who never played a videogame before, and was meant for people to have something to enjoy, at the same time. Boink does just that, a great game to play for a beginer.

Boink is a great series, NEC just screwed up the PCE by making the DUO series, and then the
Super Grafx. Everybody in the west, was high on NES.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Bernie on September 23, 2012, 03:49:37 PM
 :-s :-s :-s :-k :-k :-k  Are you, um.... RETARDED?? :-k :-k :-k

Posted by: RegalSin
Quote
1. Platformer is just the western word for J-rpg becuase they can't just say action, game.
Western videogames had no idea, all we had in the west was tron and Atari before Super Mario Brothers.

2. Bonk is what is called a Dinosaur game. Dinosaur game genre, took place in a bushy world,
with a prehistoric character, and would proceed in a j-rpg ( Adventure island/Wonder boy ) fashion. What is so auwsome about that game is their are sooo many things to interact with
in the world itself, and the funny animations. If you ever played Doramon, or other games like this, you will understand.

3. Another way to look at this is a starter game, like Kirby. Kirby was made for young kids, who never played a videogame before, and was meant for people to have something to enjoy, at the same time. Boink does just that, a great game to play for a beginer.

Boink is a great series, NEC just screwed up the PCE by making the DUO series, and then the
Super Grafx. Everybody in the west, was high on NES.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: BigusSchmuck on September 23, 2012, 04:09:25 PM
1. Platformer is just the western word for J-rpg becuase they can't just say action, game.
Western videogames had no idea, all we had in the west was tron and Atari before Super Mario Brothers.

2. Bonk is what is called a Dinosaur game. Dinosaur game genre, took place in a bushy world,
with a prehistoric character, and would proceed in a j-rpg ( Adventure island/Wonder boy ) fashion. What is so auwsome about that game is their are sooo many things to interact with
in the world itself, and the funny animations. If you ever played Doramon, or other games like this, you will understand.

3. Another way to look at this is a starter game, like Kirby. Kirby was made for young kids, who never played a videogame before, and was meant for people to have something to enjoy, at the same time. Boink does just that, a great game to play for a beginer.

Boink is a great series, NEC just screwed up the PCE by making the DUO series, and then the
Super Grafx. Everybody in the west, was high on NES.
Uh, my brain just went potty on reading that comment.
:-s :-s :-s :-k :-k :-k  Are you, um.... RETARDED?? :-k :-k :-k
I wouldn't say retarded, more like if someone had a crashing hard drive for a brain.

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: HercTNT on September 23, 2012, 04:15:54 PM
1. Platformer is just the western word for J-rpg becuase they can't just say action, game.
Western videogames had no idea, all we had in the west was tron and Atari before Super Mario Brothers.

2. Bonk is what is called a Dinosaur game. Dinosaur game genre, took place in a bushy world,
with a prehistoric character, and would proceed in a j-rpg ( Adventure island/Wonder boy ) fashion. What is so auwsome about that game is their are sooo many things to interact with
in the world itself, and the funny animations. If you ever played Doramon, or other games like this, you will understand.

3. Another way to look at this is a starter game, like Kirby. Kirby was made for young kids, who never played a videogame before, and was meant for people to have something to enjoy, at the same time. Boink does just that, a great game to play for a beginer.

Boink is a great series, NEC just screwed up the PCE by making the DUO series, and then the
Super Grafx. Everybody in the west, was high on NES.
Uh, my brain just went potty on reading that comment.
:-s :-s :-s :-k :-k :-k  Are you, um.... RETARDED?? :-k :-k :-k
I wouldn't say retarded, more like if someone had a crashing hard drive for a brain.


LOL, diskchecker is finding bad sectors  :D
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Tatsujin on September 23, 2012, 04:32:39 PM
I see your point reg. quater munching arcade games, which is a generel problem of arcade games. is and ever was.
but j&m on arcade was a pure actionloaded and very dynamic fastpaced game,
whilst the snes port was slow and lost almost all of its initial arcade flair.
Kinda like the boring but also stretched port of toki for the genesis.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: NightWolve on September 23, 2012, 07:24:35 PM
LOL, diskchecker is finding bad sectors  :D

This is the best analogy that I've heard for him so far! A brain with a lot of bad sectors and occasional reading problems even with good ones! ;) Nail on his head...
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 24, 2012, 06:02:30 AM

QUESTION: What is so great about Bonk?

ANSWER:

(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_fishin.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_surfin.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_cook.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_dodogie.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_mammoth.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_axe.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_piranee3.gif)
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turboswimbz on September 24, 2012, 06:06:22 AM
(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_fishin.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_surfin.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_cook.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_dodogie.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_mammoth.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_axe.gif)(http://archives.tg-16.com/wallpaper/t1_br_piranee3.gif)


Speechless. just so b-e-a-utiful...
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Necromancer on September 24, 2012, 06:55:50 AM
Unless you don't like platformers in general, I don't get how you can't like Bonk and his cute/funny/colorful art, bouncy tunes, and perfect controls.  Is there something specific that you don't like about 'em, or are you here just to stir up muck?
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KingDrool on September 24, 2012, 06:56:22 AM
This is probably the tenth time I've seen Regal refer to platform games like Kirby as "J-RPGs". And every time, my brain twitches and I become one step closer to an embolism.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Arkhan on September 24, 2012, 07:24:24 AM
I've tried repeatedly to get into them, but they just never click for me. They just feel like generic 90's platformers to me.

For those of you that enjoy them, what is it about them you like?

There's dinosaurs.  You hit shit with your head.  The music is excellent.

Also, you end up in space!

Climbing with face = <3

The flowers are exciting to bounce off of.


there is nothing generic about these games really.  You don't climb with your face in Mario, Sonic can't bash his face into volcano jive, Mario is worthless in water without a frog suit or fireballs.   Bonk still bashes with his face underwater, and heck, Sonic drowns if he's underwater too long.   

Bonk? Hell no.  He's sweet.



Give him spicy meat foods and watch him destroy everything. 

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: PunkicCyborg on September 24, 2012, 07:28:25 AM
Bonk is rad!
End of thread.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KnightWarrior on September 24, 2012, 08:09:17 AM
I played Bonk's Adventure on the Game Boy though the Super Game Boy, Got all the way to Round 4 Boss easy game...

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 24, 2012, 08:11:46 AM

To build on what Arkhan said:

AT ITS VISCERAL CORE, THE BONK GAMES PROVIDE VERY SATISFYING VIOLENCE: those moments when you perfectly time a head-butt, and then use the resulting momentum to land another well-placed head-butt, and on, and on.

I'd liken the Bonk head-butt to Gogan's (Legendary Axe) fully-powered axe: it just feels so damn sweet when a well-timed swing SMASHES an opponent.

But, with Bonk, it's better than Gogan's axe! There are gymnastics in Bonk (spinning, springing, multiple hits, trying to stay airborne as long as possible) that most games (including Legendary Axe) lack.

Thankfully, there is a rewarding CRUNCH-KRAK-THUNDERCLAP in Bonk that accentuates a solid hit.

...intermission...

QUESTION: Esteban, what are some of the most satisfying moments of violence in Bonk series?

ANSWER: Personally, I love freezing my opponents and then obliterating them with a head-butt. If I can take out multiple enemies without hitting the ground (staying airborne), I have an orgasm. Some boss battles are fantastic because they encourage you to remain airborne by repeatedly headbutting objects (be they projectiles, bubbles, or boss itself).


NOTE: I won't discuss all the other other elements that work in the series (mood, atmosphere, character design, consistency/logic of Bonk Universe, etc.)
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: SignOfZeta on September 24, 2012, 08:31:14 AM
I've asked myself the same question. PCE fans like Bonk because that's what they have. Sure, they say they prefer Bonk to Mario and Sonic but if Mario or Sonic were on PCE they wouldn't be talking shit about it, that's for sure. They'd be gushing over Super Mario World or Sonic 2 on PCE, but they aren't there, so they gush over Bonk. They are fanboys, period.

There are much better platformers than Bonk out there...but probably not on PCE. PCE has a fairly large selection of EXTREMELY similar and generic platformers and side scrolling RPGs, but somehow Bonk stands alone, particularly the second one.

When compared to the entire spectrum of 8 and 16 bit platformers...its B grade, there are a few aspects of it that are really cool. The spin Bonk move, and how its variable based on the two turbo settings and manual. The comical characters, especially all the dudes working on the ship.

Also, the experience of the straight up standard *bonk*. Like, you just walk up to a guy at point blank range and *bonk* his ass right off the f*cking screen, its very satisfying, even when you've been playing the game for hours.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 24, 2012, 10:16:09 AM
I've asked myself the same question. PCE fans like Bonk because that's what they have. Sure, they say they prefer Bonk to Mario and Sonic but if Mario or Sonic were on PCE they wouldn't be talking shit about it, that's for sure. They'd be gushing over Super Mario World or Sonic 2 on PCE, but they aren't there, so they gush over Bonk. They are fanboys, period.

There are much better platformers than Bonk out there...but probably not on PCE. PCE has a fairly large selection of EXTREMELY similar and generic platformers and side scrolling RPGs, but somehow Bonk stands alone, particularly the second one.

When compared to the entire spectrum of 8 and 16 bit platformers...its B grade, there are a few aspects of it that are really cool. The spin Bonk move, and how its variable based on the two turbo settings and manual. The comical characters, especially all the dudes working on the ship.

Also, the experience of the straight up standard *bonk*. Like, you just walk up to a guy at point blank range and *bonk* his ass right off the f*cking screen, its very satisfying, even when you've been playing the game for hours.


I agree that Bonk is B (or C grade) in some respects. It is a humble game (series) with a whole lot of charm. This charm is what makes it so endearing.

I love Sonic. I love Mario. But I also love Bonk. Bonk deserves a spot in the pantheon of platformers (no, he doesn't have to get top billing). Bonk has an intentionally slower pacing than many of its brethren, yet this DOESN'T DETRACT from the action and fun! Super Mario World gets tedious! Sonic 2 is awesome, but also gets monotonous. If these stalwarts of the platforming genre can be faulted, I would never expect Bonk to escape unscathed. I could argue that Bonk really relies on its charm, more than anything else!

Anyway, Zeta, I'm glad we both agree that Bonk is SWEETNESS and deserving of tremendous praise in the 8-bit/16-bit universe.

Princess Za *hugs* Zeta. (http://junk.tg-16.com/images/pcgs.png)

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: RegalSin on September 24, 2012, 10:18:27 AM
Quote
Super Mario World or Sonic 2 on PCE,

That is not fair, Super Mario World was an action game like Popful Mail. You can't compare that to Boink, on the PCE.
If we did then we would have to imagine if Boink had a world map, like Mario World. Boink also had only five sets of games. 1-4 and Roboboink.

All Sonic games were ever about was looking cool and that is about it. Sega made him the most claimest looking color ever, and the whole idea was save the rainforest. You can't beat that, even with Mario. Mario only survived because of the fanbase, and green pipes. Sonic was the most biggest gimmick ever made.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: allyourblood on September 24, 2012, 11:41:14 AM
I always enjoyed the challenge of the Bonk games. I've never met a standard 2D platform Mario or Sonic game that I wasn't able to beat almost right away (unless it was just a particularly long game to begin with). The Bonk games always seemed to have a higher difficulty (at least 1 & 2) than most other popular platformers and took a bit more finesse and strategy. Heck, the longer the Mario and Sonic series went on, it seemed like the devs didn't want you to die, ever.

I enjoy the Bonk games for all the reasons mentioned in the thread thus far, but I also think they're special because I didn't have a TG16 as a kid. I knew a couple other kids who owned one and while I had a Genesis and NES, the TG16 and its Bonk games were always this mysterious experience that I only got a chance to enjoy once in a great while. They still hold a little magic because of that.

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: csgx1 on September 24, 2012, 02:26:18 PM
I agree that Bonk is B (or C grade) in some respects. It is a humble game (series) with a whole lot of charm. This charm is what makes it so endearing.


I have to agree too, charm is what makes Bonk so appealing for me.  To be honest, I really don't like platformer games(Mario/Sonic) but I love Bonk.  I really like the humorous & outrageous prehistoric theme that the Bonk games have along with good controls, unique level design(eg level inside the dinosaur), huge bosses and colorful graphics. 

(http://www.texturemonkey.com/HCG/blog/bonk_(16).jpg)

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: kazekirifx on September 24, 2012, 02:30:12 PM
Yeah. Really. I should have made this thread. Bonk has totally mediocre gameplay, and not enough challenge. It never was a Sonic or Mario. That's probably why when I take out the turbo these days, it's usually to play a shmup or Alien/Devil's Crush and not Bonk. Can't remember the last time I played Bonk. Mine have a think layer of dust on them.

Super Mario World was an action game like Popful Mail.

Yes. That's totally the first game I would have chosen to compare Super Mario World to. It is just like Popful Mail. /s
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: MrFlutterPie on September 24, 2012, 04:21:09 PM
I think Bonk is up there as part of the great platformers.  I grew up with a NES and I play way more Bonk then Mario or Sonic now a days.  It always seems to hold my attention.  I agree with everybody else on what they were saying about it's merits.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Sadler on September 24, 2012, 04:32:30 PM
It's impossible for me to objectively evaluate the Bonk games compared to its rivals. I never had a Genesis so it's probably no surprise that to this day I don't understand the fascination with Sonic. I did have a SNES back in the day and yes, I think the Mario games are fantastic. I had a TG16 first though, and one of the first 2 games I had was Bonk's Revenge (the other being Keith Courage). I absolutely loved the Bonk games back then. I probably played more of Revenge than any other platformer I've ever owned. The other two are pretty good (I prefer Adventure to Bonk 3), but Revenge is something special to me. I played through Revenge a month or two ago for the first time in well over a decade and I can honestly say it was just as incredible as I remember it being.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: HercTNT on September 24, 2012, 05:35:59 PM
Personally i think that anyone that tries to compare the classic mascots are missing the point. The charm of Sonic is different than the charm of Bonk is different from the charm of Mario. I like all three games due to the fact that play completely different from each other.  Bonk's artistic style and random scenarios keep the game fresh for me. i love mario and sonic, but they tend to feel overdone at times.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: motdelbourt on September 24, 2012, 07:31:48 PM
To know Bonk is to love him. Especially on the TG16.

The funny thing about Bonk though is that only a fraction of his games are actually on the PCE/TG16. The ones that are not on the TG are on the whole considerably weaker and less charismatic in every area compared to the Turbosauce versions.

I've been playing the arcade game lately. It's funny how it reminds me of NSMB, but boy is it annoying.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: ParanoiaDragon on September 24, 2012, 08:20:46 PM
I love Mario, but Sonic, I've tried so hard over the years to enjoy those games.  I have virtually ever collection that's been released in the last 10 years, so I have all the original games.  I just can't get into them.  I like the music, & visuals in most the games, but the gameplay just kills it for me.  It doesn't help that they're all essentially 1 hit wonders, which I usually hate(though I tolerate in Mario's), but I get so friggin agitated when I lose all my rings.  It's like you're on top of the world, & BAM, you suck!  And it's so easy to get hit before you even know what's going on, because of that damn blast processing!  Seriously, I do like aspects of the Sonic games, but, I just can't play thru them from begining to end. 

Ofcoarse, I'm one of those wierdo's that still considers Super Mario 2/USA as the best Mario game of the 8/16bit era, & wish they'd revisit Wart & the gang.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: SignOfZeta on September 24, 2012, 11:20:49 PM
Gawd, Super Mario USA is such a bastard creation.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KnightWarrior on September 25, 2012, 06:57:39 AM
Super Mario isn't a Real Mario Game at all

The Japanese version of Super Mario Bros. 2 is..
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Mathius on September 25, 2012, 07:01:06 AM
I love Super Mario Bros. 2 USA! It's one of my fondest gaming memories when my mom bought it for me at K-Mart all those decades ago. I even love the box art.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Arkhan on September 25, 2012, 07:07:40 AM
They are fanboys, period.
I will have to disagree. I grew up with NES, SNES, TG and Genesis. I had them all. I grew up with every mario, every sonic, and every Bonk. There was no fanboying afoot. I was like, 7.

I liked Bonk's Adventure more than all of them even back then. It's got a charm to it that the other games don't have. The cartoony dinosaur theme helps. The music definitely helps. Bonk's Adventure's soundtrack is perfect for the game.

It's why I like Joe and Mac alot too. If that game played the exact same but it was like, some stupid italian plumbers, I would probably not like it.

Anyway, my top platformers from the era go something like this:

Bonk's adventure
Super Mario Bros 2 (Doki Doki Panic)
Sonic 2
Rocket Knight Adventures
Ristar

Throw in Joe and Mac and Super Bonk too. I think I had the most fun growing up playing Mario 2, Sonic 2, Super Bonk and Bonk's Adventure.

I also liked Kid Chameleon alot. That was a strange f*ckin game. Most of my other favorites are Genesis games. Go figure.

Super Mario World was fun, but alot of the levels really pissed me off for the wrong reasons. I don't like the levels that move for you. They were a pain in the ass in Mario 3, and are still a pain in the ass in SMW. If SMW didn't have all the secret stuff to do, the game wouldn't be half as fun for me. I like using the cape to launch up to some secret bullshit. That's where the real fun is. and Star Road. That's the best part.


I liked this game called Claymates on SNES alot too. That's another strange f*ckin game.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turboswimbz on September 26, 2012, 01:18:39 AM
I'm guess it might have something to do with Arkhan and me being similar in age, But I really, really agree with him.  Those are my favorites too.  + claymates and chemelon twist are awesome as well. (damn this are upstairs - gotta plug them back in and play them, along with Joe and Mac.  I liked Super Mario World a lot as a kid, but I find now that it's boring until you unlock the secret stuff. I never had a gensis, but my 1 friend did, we played Sonic 2 all day long. The 1 diffrence is that I like mario 3 as much as 2.  IDK why, I just do.  However, Bonk is my favorite becuse it was just diffrent, fun, simple and challenging.  It doesn't need to be anything other than what it is.  IT doesn't need to be some kind of crazy awesome, game that makes everyone like it.  The Games are solid early 90's platform style games or whatever you want to call them.  BOttom line.
BONK = GOOD

also don't care if I'm a fanboy, that's the point of liking it, and being a fan.

BONK PLEASE HAVE MY BABIES! ALL MY BABIES! 
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Arkhan on September 26, 2012, 03:20:25 AM
There were a few other oddball platformer games that I really liked. 

Castle of Illusion was great.  Still one of my favorite Sega games actually.

I'm not sure if it counts, but Ecco the Dolphin too.   That's another one of my favorite Sega games.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: futureman2000 on September 26, 2012, 03:55:52 AM
I remember being interested in Bonk from a snippet of gameplay in a TG-16 commercial, but I didn't play the game until about two years ago. The graphics and general theme appeal to me, but it's not a game that I play very often.
In comparison to Sonic/ Mario, I dunno.
When Sonic came out, I was a bit disappointed that it was so popular. I had a Genesis, so it was cool that the system was really taking off. But it wasn't really the kind of game that I liked. The colors were nice, and the scrolling was neat, but I didn't really care about scrolling at the time. I was mostly into RPGs, or strategy games- we generally didn't buy a game unless it had a save feature (with the exception of Strider- it was kind of a big deal at the time). I do like the Sonic games now (especially Sonic 2), but more as an example of programming prowess and creativity.
I think that it's not a stretch to say that most every Mario game is enjoyable without regard to context. Super Mario World was the kind of deep, exploratory game that I had wanted Sonic to be.
Finally playing Bonk was cool, because I remember seeing the art style and reading about the game play mechanics. But they're not the type of games (aside from maybe the giant Bonk sprite) that show off what the console can do, nor do they provide the kind of deep gameplay of Mario.
Then again, I was 30 when I first played Bonk- maybe I would feel differently if I had secured a turbo in 1990.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: reno5 on September 26, 2012, 04:39:37 AM
To my opinion the only missing thing in Bonk is save point. The game is kinda long if you don't have all day to play !
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Arkhan on September 26, 2012, 04:44:18 AM
Save points in a platformer?

lolwut



You can beat the game in like an hour.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: turbokon on September 26, 2012, 05:58:40 AM
To my opinion the only missing thing in Bonk is save point. The game is kinda long if you don't have all day to play !

I agree. What all the talk of bonk, I decided to fire up bonk's adventure. Got to stage 3 before I had to quit. I don't see how you can beat in an hour without trying to discover all the bonus stages.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KingDrool on September 26, 2012, 06:31:35 AM
To be fair, save points weren't exactly common back at that time; especially for platformers. I mean, Mario 3 is freaking ginormous (without warp whistles), yet: no save point. No save points in Sonic either, as I recall.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Arkhan on September 26, 2012, 06:37:54 AM
To my opinion the only missing thing in Bonk is save point. The game is kinda long if you don't have all day to play !

I agree. What all the talk of bonk, I decided to fire up bonk's adventure. Got to stage 3 before I had to quit. I don't see how you can beat in an hour without trying to discover all the bonus stages.


Save the discovering for a time when you aren't going to get up 12 minutes later.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Black Tiger on September 26, 2012, 08:02:36 AM
Sonic 3 and Valis PCE games have saving, but it was uncommon for sidescrollers bitd.

The Bonk games aren't long for the time period either, they just aren't too short.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 26, 2012, 08:47:00 AM
Gawd, Super Mario USA is such a bastard creation.


YES, BUT IT IS SUPREMELY AWESOME. I recently mentioned this in another thread: the *charm* of the Mario universe (as we now know it) owes a huge part to the bastard-child we know as Super Mario Bros. 2 USA North America. That's the first game where TONS OF LOVE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL went into character designs and fleshing out the finer details of things.

I'm with Paranoia Dragon 1 million percent: I wish Nintendo would create an alternate universe where Wart, Birdo & Co. can continue their antics. Why should Wario and Waluigi be the only demented offsprings of the Mario cannon? Birdo, I want you back, baby! I friggin' love Birdo. (http://junk.tg-16.com/images/pcgs.png)



Super Mario isn't a Real Mario Game at all

The Japanese version of Super Mario Bros. 2 is..


This is silly. WHO CARES IF IT IS CANON OR NOT? It is a brilliant game, literally oozing with charm, personality and originality. So many great ideas (play mechanics) in this game. IT IS A CRIME THAT THIS GAME HASN'T BEEN EXPANDED AND DEVELOPED as an offshoot of the Mario Universe Proper.

See my prior comment on how Mario Universe Proper is indebted to Super Mario Bros. 2 USA North America.





I love Super Mario Bros. 2 USA! It's one of my fondest gaming memories when my mom bought it for me at K-Mart all those decades ago. I even love the box art.


HELLS YES! (http://junk.tg-16.com/images/pcgs.png)

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: vestcoat on September 26, 2012, 08:59:27 AM
To be fair, save points weren't exactly common back at that time; especially for platformers. I mean, Mario 3 is freaking ginormous (without warp whistles), yet: no save point. No save points in Sonic either, as I recall.
Man, I HATE save points in platformers (or almost any game that's not an RPG). Super Mario World seems to be the game that really made save points mainstream. As much as I like SMW, it introduced two of my pet peeves in action games: save points and in-game tutorials (in the form of blocks).
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Obfuscate on September 26, 2012, 09:12:39 AM
Since I don't really enjoy platformers I wouldn't mind save states as I would probably play through more of them. Dracula X is a good example.

I love shooters and would hate it if they had save states. Unlimited continues pisses me off also, so I could see why people who like platformers wouldn't want them.

Bonks Adventure and Bonks Revenge are cool for a early 90's platformers though. One of the few I enjoy playing here and there.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Father5&JoshUnion on September 26, 2012, 09:40:46 AM
Super Mario 2 (USA) was a brilliant game.  I played the hell out of it, and was floored when I found out the gameplay would be different than what we saw in the first SMW.  Then I was floored again when I really got into it.

Is it weird that I think Bonk 3 was the most fun of the Turbo trilogy?  Perhaps I just loved playing it two players with my kids years ago.  I also had the SCD copy, which I really dug the music in.  :)

I should bug my son now that he's out of the house and ask if he remembers playing Bonk 3 late nights back in 1995.... LOL
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: KnightWarrior on September 26, 2012, 10:30:20 AM
Well SMUSA is based off Doki Doki Panic..

SMB2J is the true sequel, even know everyone thinks it's just a add on of SMB
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 26, 2012, 10:43:56 AM
Super Mario 2 (USA) was a brilliant game.  I played the hell out of it, and was floored when I found out the gameplay would be different than what we saw in the first SMW.  Then I was floored again when I really got into it.

Is it weird that I think Bonk 3 was the most fun of the Turbo trilogy?  Perhaps I just loved playing it two players with my kids years ago.  I also had the SCD copy, which I really dug the music in.  :)

I should bug my son now that he's out of the house and ask if he remembers playing Bonk 3 late nights back in 1995.... LOL

You're not the only one who likes Bonk 3...someone here (nat?), whose opinion I respect quite a bit, well, he actually likes Bonk 3 the best. HE'S CRAZY WRONG, but that's OK.

YOU ARE CRAZY, too. But that's OK. I WISH I was able to enjoy Bonk 3 more. I've only played it via emulation (I don't have HuCard). Actually, this is probably part of the problem (I prefer playing on actual hardware).

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Necromancer on September 26, 2012, 11:15:37 AM
You're not the only one who likes Bonk 3...someone here (nat?), whose opinion I respect quite a bit, well, he actually likes Bonk 3 the best. HE'S CRAZY WRONG, but that's OK.

It's nat and me that champion Bonk 3 as the best of the three.  Neither of us is crazy.... we're just different.  :D
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Bernie on September 26, 2012, 12:12:09 PM
Hey, I really like Bonk 3 too!!
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: BigusSchmuck on September 26, 2012, 12:30:14 PM
Hey, I really like Bonk 3 too!!
Yeah I do too, but is it really worth paying $80+ for it? That I'm not so sure of.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Drakon on September 26, 2012, 12:54:16 PM
Then get the turbo everdrive and play it on that.

Hey, I really like Bonk 3 too!!
Yeah I do too, but is it really worth paying $80+ for it? That I'm not so sure of.

Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Bernie on September 26, 2012, 02:20:22 PM
Hey, I really like Bonk 3 too!!
Yeah I do too, but is it really worth paying $80+ for it? That I'm not so sure of.


hmm..  Depends on how much you want it and want to play it.  I'd pay 80 for it, although although I already have it so it doesnt really matter. 
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: Mathius on September 26, 2012, 02:26:17 PM
Hey, I really like Bonk 3 too!!
Yeah I do too

I just can't get into Bonk 3. The music and level design are lackluster IMO.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: csgx1 on September 26, 2012, 02:36:44 PM
Bonk 3 is my least favorite out of the three.  I wouldn't pay $80+ for it.  That being said, I bought the Japanese version, PC Genjin 3 for around $35 which seems fair for what the game offers.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: kazekirifx on September 26, 2012, 02:48:40 PM
I always liked the music in Bonk 3. Sounds newer to me than other turbochips, and there isn't really another turbochip that sounds like Bonk 3.
Title: Re: I don't see what's so great about the Bonk games
Post by: esteban on September 26, 2012, 02:55:27 PM
You're not the only one who likes Bonk 3...someone here (nat?), whose opinion I respect quite a bit, well, he actually likes Bonk 3 the best. HE'S CRAZY WRONG, but that's OK.


It's nat and me that champion Bonk 3 as the best of the three.  Neither of us is crazy.... we're just different.  :D


Hahahhahhahaha. So you were the other crazy one! (http://junk.tg-16.com/images/pcgs.png)