
Ah, the 90s. Remember when games were filled with digitized sprites and a healthy dose of absurdity? ClayFighter 63 1/3 bursts onto the scene like a mutated claymation character throwing pies (which it actually does!). This wacky fighting game, developed by Interplay Productions and released for the Super Nintendo in 1997, stands out not for its technical prowess, but for its sheer unadulterated weirdness.
A Story Sculpted From Clay…and Jokes?
The story, if you can call it that, revolves around a bizarre tournament hosted by Earl, the self-proclaimed “King of Claymation.” He invites a motley crew of characters, each with their own strange backstory and questionable hygiene, to battle for ultimate clay supremacy.
There’s Bad Mr. Frosty, a sentient snowman with a penchant for snowball attacks; Sumohead, a sumo wrestler whose head is…well, a head; and the infamous Helga, a Valkyrie who wields a frying pan like Thor’s hammer (although she’d probably argue it’s more efficient). The roster is a delightful mix of the bizarre and the downright hilarious.
Character | Special Move | Quirk |
---|---|---|
Bad Mr. Frosty | Snowball Barrage | Melts when near fire |
Sumohead | Headbutt Slam | Loves sushi…a lot |
Helga | Frying Pan Fury | Has a surprising fondness for knitting |
The humor is decidedly lowbrow, but it’s delivered with such gusto that you can’t help but chuckle. The game lampoons fighting game tropes while embracing its own silliness. ClayFighter 63 1/3 isn’t afraid to be ridiculous, and that’s part of its charm.
Gameplay: Punching Through the Claymation Barrier
While ClayFighter 63 1/3 might prioritize absurdity over technical depth, it still delivers a competent fighting experience. The controls are straightforward, allowing for punches, kicks, grabs, and special moves unique to each character.
The combat system utilizes a four-button layout:
- Light Punch: A quick jab for poking at your opponents.
- Heavy Punch: Slower but more powerful punch that can knock down opponents.
- Kick: A versatile attack that can be used for close and mid-range encounters.
- Special: Triggers each character’s unique special move.
The game features a variety of stages, each as bizarrely designed as the characters themselves. You’ll battle amidst giant pies, in a haunted graveyard, and even on top of a colossal toilet.
The visuals are charmingly crude, capturing the claymation aesthetic with digitized sprites that wobble and warp with each movement. The soundtrack, though repetitive, is upbeat and energetic, further enhancing the game’s quirky atmosphere.
Beyond the Brawl: ClayFighter 63 1/3’s Legacy
Despite its unconventional approach, ClayFighter 63 1/3 found a niche audience who appreciated its offbeat humor and accessible gameplay. It spawned two sequels (ClayFighter II and ClayFighter III) that further explored the wacky world of claymation combat. While the series ultimately faded from mainstream recognition, it remains a cult classic, fondly remembered for its unique charm and unapologetic weirdness.
If you’re looking for a fighting game experience that breaks the mold, ClayFighter 63 1/3 is worth digging up. Just be prepared to laugh (a lot) along the way!