Ghostbusters

Ghostbusters

Released by Sega in 1987, Ghostbusters for the Sega Master System is widely celebrated as one of the finest 8-bit adaptations of David Crane's classic Activision design. While other platforms suffered from muddy visuals, Sega’s hardware delivered vibrant graphics, smoother scrolling, and a remarkably faithful chiptune rendition of the iconic theme song. The storyline mirrors the legendary 1984 film: paranormal activity is skyrocketing across Manhattan, signaling the return of the demigod Gozer. Players must establish a local Ghostbusters franchise, purchase essential gear, and successfully clean up the city to fund their ultimate battle at the Temple of Zuul.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

The game blends strategic resource management with active arcade sequences. Players begin by selecting a vehicle—such as the affordable but slow Hearse or the high-performance Sports Car—and stocking it with equipment like PK energy detectors, ghost vacuums, and traps. Using a grid map of New York, you navigate the ECTO-1 to flashing red buildings before the city's Psychokinetic (PK) energy level reaches 9999. In the containment screen, players deploy a trap and coordinate two proton-wielding Ghostbusters to herd wandering phantoms into the capture beam. Vacuuming up stray ghouls during driving sequences yields extra cash to upgrade your gear. The game culminates in a tense climax where players must sneak past the stomping Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and ascend a hazardous, ghost-infested staircase.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Navigate the Manhattan map, steer your vehicle, position the Ghostbusters, and climb stairs.
• Action Key 1 (Z / Button 1): Buy equipment, deploy traps, fire proton beams, and jump during the final climb.
• Action Key 2 (X / Button 2): Activate the car's ghost vacuum on the road and confirm menu selections.
• Enter / Start: Start the game, pause, and confirm password entry.