Ghostbusters vs Ghostbusters
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Ghostbusters is a 1990 run‑and‑gun platformer where three cartoon‑styled Ghostbusters battle supernatural foes across six levels. After completing the initial four stages, a hidden fifth and final sixth level become available, each filled with mid‑bosses and money‑capturing ghosts. The game features a shop between levels to purchase power‑ups like a 3‑way shot, and culminates in a showdown against Janna, the God of Darkness, to close a portal and save the city.
Ghostbusters puts you in charge of the iconic team as you patrol midtown Manhattan from an overhead map, responding to ghost alarms and chasing roaming spirits. When you reach a haunted site, the view shifts to a side‑scroll where two Busters use proton beams and traps to capture the ectoplasm. Earn money from each capture to upgrade your Ghostmobile and buy new equipment, keeping the city’s PK level low and preventing the rise of Gozer. The game blends strategic routing with fast‑paced side‑view combat for a nostalgic arcade experience.
- Authentic 1990 Mega Drive graphics and sound.
- Varied power‑up system adds strategic depth.
- Hidden levels provide extended replay value.
- Humorous cartoon style matches the franchise tone.
- Unique blend of overhead strategy and side‑scroll action
- Earn and spend in‑game money for meaningful upgrades
- Faithful to the 1984 film’s lore and equipment
- Simple controls suitable for short play sessions
- Limited to three playable Ghostbusters, missing Winston.
- Very low critic score indicates dated gameplay.
- Single‑player only, no multiplayer modes.
- Limited to single‑player experience
- Graphics are dated compared to modern titles
- Replay variety can feel repetitive after many runs
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Alternatives to Ghostbusters
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Alternatives to Ghostbusters
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGhostbusters (1984) offers richer gameplay, upgrades and a higher critic score, making it the safer default; the 1990 Mega Drive version is a niche retro shooter with very low reviews.
Key differences
- •Release year and platform focus: 1984 arcade‑style vs. 1990 Mega Drive shooter.
- •Critic scores: 80/100 vs. 10/100.
- •Gameplay style: overhead strategy + side‑scroll action vs. pure run‑and‑gun platforming.
- •Upgrade system: purchasable Ghostmobile mods and trap upgrades vs. limited shop upgrades.
- •Character roster: multiple Busters with upgrades vs. only three Busters, missing Winston.
Gameplay & fun factor
Combines strategic map planning and side‑view action, offering more varied play than straight shooter.
Platform availability
Specifically targets the Mega Drive console, appealing to owners of that retro hardware.
Price & value
$19.99 for a game with upgrades, multiple modes and higher critic rating versus low‑score B.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Map‑based missions, upgrade paths and unlockable characters give more replay loops than four stages plus hidden level.
Difficulty & accessibility
Simpler run‑and‑gun may be easier for casual players, but low critic score suggests poor design.
Graphics & performance
Authentic 1990 Mega Drive graphics may appeal to retro fans; A’s graphics are dated by modern standards.
Choose Ghostbusters if…
Buyers who own a Mega Drive and prefer authentic 1990 console graphics.
Choose Ghostbusters if…
Buyers wanting deeper gameplay, upgrades and better reviews.
Common questions
What is the price of each game?
Both are paid one‑time purchases; Ghostbusters (1984) lists $19.99, Ghostbusters (1990) price not specified.
Does either game support multiplayer?
No. Both are single‑player only.
Which game has better critical reception?
Ghostbusters (1984) has a critic score of 80/100, while the 1990 Mega Drive version scores 10/100.