Toxic Avenger Video Games

Developed and published by Bandai, the Toxic Crusaders game for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a side-scrolling action platformer. Players controlled Toxie as he fought through hazardous levels filled with mutant enemies, environmental hazards, and bosses. Unlike traditional beat 'em ups, the NES version featured more platforming elements, requiring players to jump between obstacles while attacking foes with Toxie's signature mop. The game received criticism for its high difficulty, awkward controls, and stiff movement, but it remains a nostalgic title for fans of the character.

The Sega Genesis version of Toxic Crusaders, also developed by Bandai, took a more traditional beat 'em up approach similar to games like Streets of Rage or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Hyperstone Heist. Players could choose from multiple characters, including Toxie and his fellow Crusaders, as they battled waves of enemies through various polluted environments. The game supported two-player co-op and featured colorful graphics that captured the cartoon's style. However, critics noted that the controls were sluggish, and the combat felt repetitive, making it a challenging but somewhat frustrating experience.

The Game Boy version of Toxic Crusaders was a scaled-down adaptation of the NES game, featuring side-scrolling platformer gameplay but with simplified mechanics and monochrome graphics. Players once again controlled Toxie, using his mop to defeat enemies while navigating through hazardous levels. Due to the Game Boy's hardware limitations, the game had fewer animations and a more limited moveset compared to its console counterparts. While it offered a portable way to experience the Toxic Crusaders world, the game was criticized for its stiff controls and difficulty, making it one of the more challenging adaptations of the franchise.