Bugs Bunny: Rabbit Rampage is a video game released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It is based on the Looney Tunes cartoon series and features the famous rabbit as the main character. The game is a side-scrolling platformer with some puzzle elements. The player controls Bugs Bunny as he tries to stop a lunatic animator from ruining his cartoons. The game has 9 levels, each with a different theme before facing the mad animator. Some of the levels are inspired by classic Looney Tunes episodes, such as Duck Amuck, Rabbit Seasoning, and What’s Opera, Doc? A few are inspired by folk tales such has Hansel & Gretel from the brothers Grimm and The Three Little Pigs. The game also features many other characters from the series, such as Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Yosemite Sam, and Marvin the Martian.
Our favourite rabbit has many tricks to help defeat adversity. Bugs is able to kick and to descent with a squat hit. It is possible to throw pies or tomatoes to opponents. There’s a few explosive devices and even a hole in which opponents will drop. A jar of jam, a mirror to reflect laser beams, a round bell to make believe a round is ending, a cute little tank and a few other useful gadgets. An arrow sign allows Bugs Bunny to install right on the spot ‘BUGS WAS HERE’ sign to serve as checkpoint in case Bugs is rubbed out.
Bugs Bunny: Rabbit Rampage received mixed reviews from critics and gamers. Some praised the game for its colourful graphics, faithful adaptation of the cartoon style, and humorous sound effects. Others criticized the game for its repetitive gameplay, frustrating controls, and lack of variety. The game was also compared unfavourably to other platformers of the time, such as Donkey Kong Country and Sonic the Hedgehog. The game sold poorly and is considered one of the worst Looney Tunes games ever made.
Bugs Bunny: Rabbit Rampage is an interesting example of how a beloved cartoon character can be translated into a video game. While it captured rather well the essence of the Looney Tunes humour and charm, it failed to deliver a satisfying gaming experience. The game is now mostly forgotten by fans and collectors, but it remains a part of the Bugs Bunny’s history and his adventures.
Resources
Guide and Walkthrough (SNES) by DarkFury3827 on https/gamefaqs.gamespot.com