Bubsy the Bobcat: A Nostalgic Journey Through Mediocrity
Bubsy the Bobcat has become synonymous with gaming misadventures, and for those familiar with the character, the mere mention of his name may evoke a mix of dread and amusement. Initially envisioned as a rival to iconic mascots like Sonic the Hedgehog, Bubsy’s games have largely failed to capture the hearts of players. Despite this, the character has seen several iterations, including sequels, portable versions, and even a 3D platformer, each one struggling to leave a positive mark on the gaming landscape.
The Purrfect Collection: A Compilation of the Unfortunate
In an effort to bring together all things Bubsy, Limited Run Games and Atari have released “Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection.” This compilation includes every Bubsy title from the 1990s, presenting players with a chance to relive—or perhaps endure—the entire catalog of games. While the titles themselves are often regarded as subpar, the collection has been curated with care, offering a comprehensive look at the character’s history.
First Adventures: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind
The collection kicks off with “Bubsy: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind,” originally available on both the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo. Players can experience both versions, noting minor differences in animation and soundtrack. As Bubsy, gamers collect yarn balls and confront alien foes, but the clumsy controls make these tasks frustratingly difficult. Falling from heights, misjudging jumps, or simply running too fast can lead to instant death, creating a punishing experience reminiscent of Sonic the Hedgehog—if Sonic were unplayable.
Sequels and More: The Trials of Bubsy II
Following the original game, “Bubsy II” hit the shelves, bringing back the same frustrating gameplay but with the added challenge of maze-like levels that can easily disorient players. Once again, Bubsy’s incessant chatter becomes grating, detracting from the overall enjoyment. The collection offers both the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo variations, with the same additional features as the first title, but the experience remains lackluster.
The Portable Disaster: Bubsy II on Handhelds
The handheld iteration, also named “Bubsy II,” diverges from its predecessor but retains the same clunky controls and unappealing graphics. In a rare move, the collection even warns players against trying this version, asking “Are You Sure?” before selecting it. This self-aware commentary highlights the game’s poor quality, which might make it difficult for players to endure, despite the option to apply a retro filter.
The Jaguar Era: Fractured Furry Tales
In a bid to revamp the franchise, “Bubsy in Fractured Furry Tales” was released for the Atari Jaguar. Unfortunately, it suffered from the same flaws as its predecessors, with only marginally improved graphics. Players may find themselves frustrated by the gameplay, which remains unchanged and just as unforgiving. Bubsy’s constant chatter, thanks to the Jaguar’s enhanced audio capabilities, only adds to the irritation.
Bubsy 3D: A Misguided Leap into 3D
The most infamous game in the collection is undoubtedly “Bubsy 3D,” marking the character’s venture into the third dimension. Players are confronted with subpar graphics, bewildering controls, and a lack of coherent design. The “tank” control scheme makes navigation a headache, while the camera shifts complicate platforming. Recognizing the game’s shortcomings, Limited Run and Atari included a “Purrfected” version with improved controls, but the underlying issues remain.
Extras and Historical Curiosities
Despite the collection’s focus on flawed games, it offers a variety of extras to enhance the experience. Fans can explore artwork, promotional materials, and soundtracks from the games. Notably, the collection features a rare Japanese release of the first Bubsy title, which retains the same gameplay but offers the novelty of Bubsy’s one-liners in a different language. Additionally, the collection includes a long-lost pilot for a Bubsy cartoon, providing a glimpse into an ambitious but ultimately unrealized project.
A Mixed Bag: The Verdict on The Purrfect Collection
Overall, “Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection” presents a well-organized anthology of games that, unfortunately, are not well-regarded. For those curious about the character’s legacy or who enjoy experiencing the challenges of poorly designed games, this collection may offer some entertainment. However, if you’re not already a fan of Bubsy, the lackluster gameplay and frustrating controls are unlikely to win you over. While the presentation of the collection is commendable, the quality of the games it houses leaves much to be desired. Ultimately, it’s a nostalgic trip through the missteps of gaming history, centered around the infamous character of Bubsy.
