Battletoads

Game Details:

This title was first released on the NES and was later ported to multiple platforms. It's not just a beat 'em up, but a collection of diverse gameplay styles. The game's most classic element is undoubtedly its "body morphing" attacks, where a character's hands or feet will momentarily enlarge or transform into ram horns when delivering a final blow to an enemy. Additionally, the game supports two-player co-op, but what makes it extremely challenging is the presence of friendly fire that cannot be turned off. Players who lack coordination often end up attacking each other, which has made beating the game the ultimate proof of a hardcore gamer's skill.

Game Guide:

Memorization Method:

Especially in level three, the "Turbo Tunnel," and subsequent high-speed descent stages, reflexes alone are often not enough. You need to learn the sequence of obstacles through countless failures. Every jump point and every lane change is fixed; developing muscle memory is the only way to pass these sections.

Combat and Combos:

The Battletoads' attacks have a powerful knockback effect. In combat, prioritize cornering enemies. Use the smash hits (like The Big Bad Boot/Fist) to trigger the finisher animation, which not only deals high damage but also grants a brief moment of invincibility.

Using Items and the Environment:

Pipes dropped in the game can not only be thrown as projectiles but also be used for wide-swinging melee attacks. In vertical climbing stages, be sure to use your tongue to catch flies to restore health, which is key to your survivability.

Co-op Mode Pitfalls to Avoid:

If you're playing with a friend, be sure to maintain your distance. Many deaths are not caused by enemies, but by being knocked off a platform by a teammate's heavy attack. It's recommended to have clear roles: one player draws aggro while the other deals damage from the flank.

Life Farming Tips:

In the early levels, you can repeatedly kick certain enemies (like the crows after they're knocked down) to rack up points and earn more extra lives (1-Ups). This is crucial for building a buffer to tackle the brutal difficulty of the later stages.