MonsterCritic
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection cover image
Links
Amazon Icon
Amazon

77

MONSTER

Star Icon

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection

2022
GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer
AvailableAug 30, 2022
PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
DeveloperDigital Eclipse
Overview

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection contains thirteen previously released video games from the Arcade, Nintendo Entertainment System, Super NES, Sega Genesis, and the Game Boy. This collection is a great place for gamers to experience these popular titles on Steam.

Score icon

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

67

TL;DR

Nostalgia drives Cowabunga Collection, celebrating retro Turtles gameplay and historical charm, but repetitive, formulaic stories and shallow narratives leave little room for modern appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

67

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The reviews of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection highlight its nostalgic appeal and varied gameplay experiences, with several critics praising its ability to capture the essence of classic 1980s-90s action-platformers. MeuPlayStation emphasized the consistent narrative thread across the games, where the Turtles repeatedly battle the Foot Clan to protect New York, a theme that resonates with longtime fans. Pocket Tactics noted the "variety of stories" and unique gameplay elements like skateboarding, which add charm and diversity to the collection. IGN’s mentions of "unique stories and gameplay mechanics" across different titles underscore the anthology’s value as a historical showcase, while SECTOR.sk acknowledged the games’ differing styles from 1989 to 1994, offering insight into the franchise’s evolution. These positives reflect a strong appreciation for the collection’s retro appeal and its role in preserving early Turtles gaming history. However, several critics pointed out limitations in the narrative depth of the individual games. Finger Guns criticized the "formulaic" storytelling, noting that plots often revolve around familiar villains like Shredder and Krang with predictable structures akin to Saturday morning cartoons. This critique aligns with SECTOR.sk’s observation that the collection prioritizes gameplay variety over a cohesive or innovative narrative. While IGN (across multiple platforms) and Pocket Tactics acknowledged the games’ unique mechanics, their lack of detailed narrative analysis suggests that the stories may not have aged well or failed to engage on a deeper level. The repetitive nature of the plots, as highlighted by Finger Guns, risks alienating players seeking fresh or complex storytelling in an era where such elements are increasingly expected. Overall, the critics agree that The Cowabunga Collection succeeds as a nostalgic trip through the Turtles’ gaming legacy, offering a mix of gameplay styles and historical context. While some, like MeuPlayStation and Pocket Tactics, appreciate the consistency and charm of the stories, others, such as Finger Guns and SECTOR.sk, find the narrative approach outdated or unexciting. The lack of deep storytelling is a common critique, but it’s often balanced by the collection’s value for fans of retro gaming. IGN’s repeated mentions of "unique stories" and gameplay mechanics suggest that while the narratives may not be groundbreaking, they contribute to the anthology’s appeal as a tribute to the franchise’s early years. The consensus leans toward viewing the collection as a worthwhile but uneven experience, best enjoyed by those prioritizing nostalgia over innovation.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Nostalgia drives Cowabunga Collection, celebrating retro Turtles gameplay and historical charm, but repetitive, formulaic stories and shallow narratives leave little room for modern appeal.

85

TL;DR

Nostalgic charm meets clunky gameplay in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection—a mixed bag of retro thrills, modern tweaks like save states, and uneven mechanics that frustrate as much as they delight, offering value for fans but plagued by dated design flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

85

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

3%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection receives largely positive reception for its nostalgic value, variety, and modern enhancements. Critics like IGN (XBOX SERIES X) praise the collection’s “nostalgic value” and “variety of options,” including cheats, interactive guides, and quality-of-life features such as save states and rewind functionality. Game Rant highlights the “classic side-scrolling beat ’em ups with enhancements menu,” while Destructoid and TheSixthAxis commend Turtles in Time as a standout title with “evergreen” brawlers and “simpler, more forgiving level layouts.” NME and GameGrin note the frenetic, engaging beat ’em-up action, and SpazioGames emphasizes the diversity of genres, from side-scrolling adventures to fighting games. Many reviewers also appreciate the accessibility tweaks, such as infinite lives and difficulty adjustments, which make older titles more approachable for modern players (TierraGamer, NintendoWorldReport). However, several critics point to significant flaws in the gameplay’s consistency and design. COGconnected criticizes the “repetitive” gameplay and “busted difficulty balance,” while Metro GameCentral describes the original NES game as “shallow and unfair” due to its “awkward controls.” GameSpew and Multiplayer.it highlight issues with “slippery collision detection” and “dull, frustrating” 8-bit versions, noting that some games feel outdated. We Got This Covered mentions the “clumsy controls” of the NES title, and VGC points out that “some games are extremely difficult while others are more manageable.” The collection’s reliance on older mechanics, such as the “linear and repetitive” formula (MeuPlayStation) and “limited gameplay style” (Daily Star), also draws criticism, with some titles feeling neglected despite modern enhancements. Overall, the consensus leans toward a balanced view, acknowledging both the collection’s strengths and its flaws. While many critics, including IGN (PS5) and Destructoid, praise the nostalgic appeal and accessibility features, others like COGconnected and Metro GameCentral emphasize the dated gameplay mechanics that hinder enjoyment. The variability in quality across titles—such as the “mismatch of game quality” noted by Cubed3—suggests that the collection’s value depends on individual preferences. Nonetheless, most reviewers agree that the Cowabunga Collection successfully preserves the essence of classic TMNT games while offering modern conveniences, making it a worthwhile experience for fans and newcomers alike (Game Rant, MondoXbox, Pure Nintendo).

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Nostalgic charm meets clunky gameplay in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection—a mixed bag of retro thrills, modern tweaks like save states, and uneven mechanics that frustrate as much as they delight, offering value for fans but plagued by dated design flaws.

79

TL;DR

Nostalgia reigns, but pixelated flaws linger: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection delivers faithful retro visuals with CRT filters and 80s charm, praised for authenticity and smooth emulation—but its dated graphics, blurry textures, and lack of modern upgrades alienate fans craving polish, splitting opinions between retro purists and those demanding sharper tech.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

79

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

3%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The reviews of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection highlight a strong emphasis on nostalgia and faithful recreation of original visuals. Many critics praise the collection’s commitment to preserving the pixelated aesthetics of its source material, with Nintenderos noting that the games maintain their "original design" while offering "visual filters and screen size adjustments." SECTOR.sk and IGN (Switch) commend the inclusion of CRT filters and other retro-inspired enhancements, which evoke a "nostalgic feel" and appeal to fans of the original titles. Additionally, Nintendo Life and CGMagazine highlight specific positives, such as detailed backgrounds, well-animated sprites, and a 3D section styled after the 1987 cartoon era. The emulation quality is frequently praised, with Nintenderos and Atomix noting "good" and "well-executed" conversions that respect the games’ historical context. However, several critics point out significant shortcomings in modernizing the visuals. NME and MeuPlayStation criticize the graphics as "pixelated by today’s standards" and "blurry," respectively, arguing that the original visual settings are the only ones that "look decent." Gameblog.fr and GameSpew note that some games, particularly NES and Game Boy ports, suffer from "audio-visual downgrades" and "graphical glitches," while Multiplayer.it describes the SNES version as a "compromise on animations." Others, like Destructoid and TierraGamer, mention that certain titles, especially those from the 8-bit era, feel outdated, with issues like poor readability on modern screens. The lack of substantial graphical upgrades for newer platforms is a recurring theme, with SomosXbox stating the visual design "falls short of expectations for modern enhancements." Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for the collection’s nostalgic authenticity and technical execution, though it faces criticism for not fully leveraging modern hardware. While IGN (Switch) and Pure Nintendo celebrate the "beautiful" presentation and Digital Eclipse’s work, others like NME and MeuPlayStation argue that the graphics feel dated. The mixed reception reflects a divide between fans valuing retro fidelity—highlighted by CGMagazine and DualShockers—and those expecting more polished visuals. Despite varied opinions, the collection is broadly seen as a respectful tribute to its origins, with Jeuxvideo.com and Checkpoint Gaming noting "polished presentation" and "modern features" that enhance the experience without overhauling its core aesthetic.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Nostalgia reigns, but pixelated flaws linger: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection delivers faithful retro visuals with CRT filters and 80s charm, praised for authenticity and smooth emulation—but its dated graphics, blurry textures, and lack of modern upgrades alienate fans craving polish, splitting opinions between retro purists and those demanding sharper tech.

80

TL;DR

Praised for nostalgic, faithful sound design and remastered music in TMNT: Cowabunga Collection, with cassette-style presentation and accessible OSTs, though minor technical flaws like volume issues and repetitive tracks temper the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

80

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

2%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics praise the sound design and music of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection for its nostalgic appeal and faithful recreation of retro audio elements. Areajugones highlights the "iconic" sound design, while Atomix emphasizes the unique presentation of each game’s music as cassette tapes, adding a vintage charm. Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected both commend the "on-point" and "bouncy, beautiful earworms" that evoke nostalgia, with Cubed3 noting the inclusion of full music tests and extra features. Critics like Dexerto and Digital Chumps appreciate the expansive selection of retro tracks, while IGN (Xbox) and GameGrin praise the remastered soundtracks, calling them "top-notch" and "catchy." The ability to access complete OSTs in hubs like the Turtle’s Lair—mentioned by GamersRD and The Mako Reactor—further enhances the collection’s appeal for fans of the franchise. However, some critiques point to technical shortcomings and repetitive elements. Finger Guns criticizes audio volume issues, noting inconsistent sound levels across games due to a single main audio option. Press Start Australia describes the Game Boy games’ 8-bit music as "jarring and repetitive," while TheXboxHub acknowledges that "the music doesn’t do the job well in some titles." Shacknews highlights sound quality problems in the Sega Genesis version of Tournament Fighters, and Pocket Tactics mentions that looping tracks can become irritating. Additionally, TheGamer points out the annoyance of hearing the same track on loop in the Turtle’s Lair, while IGN (PS5) notes audio issues during online play. These flaws, though minor compared to the overall praise, reveal areas where the collection could have been more polished. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that the sound design and music are a standout feature of the collection. The nostalgic value, retro aesthetics, and accessibility of the soundtracks—whether through cassette-style presentations or dedicated music hubs—are frequently highlighted as major strengths. While some technical issues and repetitive elements exist, they do not overshadow the broader appreciation for the preserved audio heritage of the TMNT games. Critics like IGN (Xbox), MondoXbox, and SECTOR.sk emphasize that the faithful recreation of 8- and 16-bit melodies, along with remastered tracks, successfully captures the spirit of the original titles. Ultimately, the collection is celebrated as a love letter to fans, with its sound design and music serving as both a nostalgic trip and a well-curated tribute to the franchise’s legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Praised for nostalgic, faithful sound design and remastered music in TMNT: Cowabunga Collection, with cassette-style presentation and accessible OSTs, though minor technical flaws like volume issues and repetitive tracks temper the experience.

61

TL;DR

Voice acting in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is hit or miss—praised for nostalgic charm and standout moments like Turtles in Time, but criticized for inconsistent quality and rushed audio, with regional adaptations adding depth to an uneven experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

61

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection receives mixed but generally favorable mentions from critics, with some highlighting its nostalgic charm and historical context. Dexerto specifically praises the voice acting in Turtles in Time, noting it as “ahead-of-its-time,” which suggests that certain entries in the collection maintain a level of quality that resonates with fans. Additionally, Nintenderos acknowledges the inclusion of English voice acting alongside multilingual text options, emphasizing accessibility and the preservation of original elements. Nintendo Life also points to the altered voice acting in the Japanese version of Turtles Tournament Fighters, implying that regional adaptations may have refined or reinterpreted the audio elements, adding a layer of interest for collectors. These positive remarks underscore moments where the voice work stands out, particularly in older titles that showcase early attempts at vocal performance in gaming. However, several critics express dissatisfaction with the consistency and quality of the voice acting across the collection. COGconnected’s critique of Hyperstone Heist as sounding “like it was recorded with a Talkboy” highlights a notable flaw, suggesting that some games in the compilation suffer from low-quality or hastily produced audio. TheXboxHub similarly notes that the first arcade game features “basic voice acting,” without elaborating further, which implies a lack of polish or effort in certain entries. While IGN and other outlets mention Japanese versions of the games, their analyses remain brief and fail to delve into specific critiques or praises of the voice work itself. This lack of depth leaves many aspects of the vocal performances unexplored, with critics like Nintenderos and Nintendo Life pointing out that no detailed evaluation of quality was provided, leaving room for ambiguity about the overall effectiveness of the audio design. The overall consensus among critics is cautiously neutral, reflecting a mix of appreciation for historical context and frustration over inconsistent execution. While some entries, such as Turtles in Time and the Japanese adaptations, are acknowledged for their voice acting, the majority of reviews either lack depth or focus on other aspects of the collection. The fragmented nature of the critiques—ranging from praise for nostalgia-driven performances to criticism of technical shortcomings—suggests that the voice acting is neither a standout strength nor a major weakness. Instead, it appears to be a variable element, with some games in the compilation offering memorable vocal work while others fall short. This mixed reception indicates that while the collection preserves key moments of early voice acting in TMNT games, its audio quality remains an uneven and underexplored facet of the overall experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Voice acting in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is hit or miss—praised for nostalgic charm and standout moments like Turtles in Time, but criticized for inconsistent quality and rushed audio, with regional adaptations adding depth to an uneven experience.

76

TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection nails emulation fidelity and modern perks like save states, but online multiplayer stumbles across all platforms—PS5 lags, Xbox glitches, Switch chokes. Nostalgia meets convenience, but technical hiccups spoil the fun.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

76

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection across platforms received largely positive feedback, particularly in emulation quality and modern enhancements. On PS5, critics like Vandal praised the "perfect emulation" with no input lag or bugs, while IGN Adria highlighted features such as speed-up/rewind options and bonus content. Similarly, on Xbox Series X, SECTOR.sk noted high-quality emulation that faithfully replicates original versions, including minor graphical glitches that add nostalgia, and MGG Spain commended the "high emulation quality" with minimal issues. For Nintendo Switch, Pocket Tactics emphasized smooth performance in both handheld and docked modes, while Screen Rant stated the Switch version "doesn’t suffer from any negatives" compared to other platforms. Across all systems, enhancements like save states, button mapping, and quality-of-life improvements were frequently praised, as noted by We Got This Covered and The Enemy. Despite these positives, technical shortcomings emerged, particularly in online multiplayer and platform-specific inconsistencies. On PS5, IGN criticized the "barely functional" online component with significant input latency, while Gaming Nexus and Finger Guns reported difficulties joining/leaving games or connectivity issues. Xbox Series X saw mixed reviews: Generación Xbox noted that original glitches persisted, and Pure Xbox mentioned sprite flickering, though MondoXbox called the performance "impeccable." On Nintendo Switch, critics like Pure Nintendo labeled online play as "one of the worst experiences," with Nintendo Insider citing sound stuttering and choppy connections. Additionally, some platforms faced issues with inconsistent enhancements—GameSpew noted "inconsistent options" on PS5, while Shacknews mentioned bugs in features like rewind. Frame rate problems (e.g., MGG Spain’s "frame rate issues") and minor glitches were also reported across systems. Overall, the consensus among critics was that The Cowabunga Collection excels in emulation fidelity and modernized accessibility, with most platforms offering stable performance despite some hiccups. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions received praise for their technical polish, though online multiplayer remained a persistent pain point, as highlighted by IGN and Pure Nintendo. The Switch version, while praised for smooth gameplay, struggled with online functionality, reflecting broader challenges in cross-platform multiplayer. Despite these issues, the collection’s ability to preserve original charm while adding modern conveniences—such as save states and glitch toggles—was widely appreciated, as noted by Vandal and NME. While technical flaws varied by platform, the overall sentiment leaned toward optimism, with critics acknowledging the effort to balance nostalgia with contemporary improvements.

TL;DR

technical performance

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection nails emulation fidelity and modern perks like save states, but online multiplayer stumbles across all platforms—PS5 lags, Xbox glitches, Switch chokes. Nostalgia meets convenience, but technical hiccups spoil the fun.

85

TL;DR

Nostalgia-driven joy for TMNT purists, but repetitive, short-lived gameplay and dated mechanics limit appeal beyond hardcore fans—packaged with extras, co-op flair, and retro charm, but lacking modern innovation or depth for newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

85

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

3%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The replay value of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is largely praised for its nostalgic appeal, multiplayer options, and extensive bonus content. Critics like IGN, VGC, and GameSkinny highlight the collection’s strengths in offering online co-op play, customizable settings, and a wealth of extras such as strategy guides, design sketches, and behind-the-scenes materials. The inclusion of multiple games—such as 13 beat ’em up titles on Nintendo Switch (Pure Xbox) and enhanced versions of classic NES/Game Boy games (Jeuxvideo.com)—provides variety, while features like rewind mechanics, save states, and watch modes (Dexerto, ZTGD) add layers of accessibility. IGN Adria and TheXboxHub specifically note that the co-op mode and bonus content allow players to relive favorite moments or explore the games’ development, making it a compelling package for long-time fans seeking nostalgia-driven engagement. However, several critics point out significant limitations in replayability for casual or newer audiences. Multiplayer.it and Metro GameCentral argue that the collection’s quick completion times and dated gameplay mechanics (especially in older NES/Game Boy titles) reduce its appeal beyond hardcore fans. WellPlayed and GameSpew criticize the lack of longevity, noting that many games can be finished in an hour or two, with some lacking engaging content beyond their core mechanics. COGconnected acknowledges the soundtrack’s high replay value but contrasts it with the games’ short lifespan. Additionally, GameSkinny and Vandal mention that the sameness of gameplay across titles and the roughness of older ports may deter players seeking modern challenges. These critiques suggest that while the collection excels for fans, its replayability is heavily tied to nostalgia rather than innovation. The overall consensus among critics leans toward a mixed but fan-focused assessment. While many praise the collection’s value for TMNT enthusiasts—highlighting its historical depth, multiplayer features, and nostalgic charm (IGN, MGG Spain, SECTOR.sk)—others caution that it may not resonate with newcomers or players seeking substantial gameplay innovation. Pure Nintendo and Nintendo Life emphasize the variety of games and enhancements as reasons to revisit the collection, but Multiplayer.it and GameSpew underscore its limited appeal outside dedicated fans. Ultimately, the replay value hinges on one’s connection to the franchise: for veterans, it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia and extras, but for others, the repetitive gameplay and short playtimes may diminish its lasting appeal.

TL;DR

replay value

Nostalgia-driven joy for TMNT purists, but repetitive, short-lived gameplay and dated mechanics limit appeal beyond hardcore fans—packaged with extras, co-op flair, and retro charm, but lacking modern innovation or depth for newcomers.

Overall verdict

Overall Verdict

77

MONSTER

Star Icon

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

77

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

0%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a nostalgic and comprehensive celebration of the franchise, particularly for long-time fans. Many highlighted its value as a curated package of classic games, with IGN noting it’s a “well-crafted homage” and TheGamer calling it the “most impressive gaming compilation ever.” The collection’s inclusion of 13 titles, along with modern enhancements like quality-of-life updates and online play, was frequently lauded. Critics such as Nintendo Life praised it as “the best thing Konami has released in a long while,” while Digital Chumps appreciated the “stunning package” and “love for the franchise.” The variety of games, from iconic titles like Turtles in Time to lesser-known entries, was seen as a major strength, with SpazioGames noting its appeal to both nostalgic fans and modern players. Additionally, the bonus content—such as a museum-like gallery and vintage-inspired features—was highlighted as a standout element by Gameblog.fr and TierraGamer. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that tempered the overall enthusiasm. The technical limitations of older games, such as dated graphics and controls, were frequently mentioned. NME noted that “the graphics and controls haven’t aged well,” while VGC suggested the collection could benefit from more narrative content in its gallery. Some reviewers, like GameSkinny, described it as a “historical curiosity” rather than a must-play for newcomers, and TheSixthAxis warned that “newcomers may not find them appealing.” Price was another point of contention; PlayStation Universe questioned whether the $40 cost justified the experience for non-fans, while Shacknews criticized the lack of crossplay and inconsistent enhancements. Additionally, WellPlayed acknowledged that “some of the included titles aren’t as good as TMNT: Arcade or Turtles In Time,” indicating uneven quality across the collection. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that the collection is a must-have for TMNT fans and retro gaming enthusiasts. IGN Adria called it a “must-have for fans of the original games,” while DualShockers praised it as a “love letter to fans” that bridges old and new generations. The balance between nostalgia and modern accessibility was frequently highlighted, with Pure Nintendo stating it “sets a new standard for how retro collections should be.” While some noted its limitations—such as SECTOR.sk’s suggestion that the price could be lower—the majority viewed it as a successful revival of classic titles. Critics like MGG Spain and Movies Games and Tech emphasized its value as a “nostalgic experience” and a “treasure trove for TMNT fans,” reinforcing its status as one of the best retro compilations of recent years. The collection’s ability to preserve legacy games while offering modern conveniences solidified its reputation as a standout release in the genre.

TL;DR

A nostalgic goldmine for TMNT fans, this compilation delivers 13 classic games with modern polish, earning rave reviews as a "love letter" to the franchise. While its retro charm, bonus content, and accessibility shine, dated graphics, steep price, and uneven gameplay hold it back from universal acclaim—ideal for diehards, less so for newcomers.

77

MONSTER

Star Icon

Reviews

123 reviews found

100

GameGrin

Xbox Series X

Aug 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review highly recommends Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a must-play title for retro game lovers or turtle fans, calling it the best game compilation.

Read full review

Full review

95

The Mako Reactor

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer praises the collection as one of their favorite retro collections of all time and recommends it. The only downside mentioned is that some of the games may not have aged well for newer players.

Read full review

Full review

92

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Aug 29, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is praised for its rich and immersive experience, strong emphasis on historical preservation, and extensive content, making it one of the best collections released in a successful year for such packages.

Read full review

Full review

90

MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Aug 29, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the collection is deemed a must-have for fans, offering a comprehensive and high-quality experience of classic TMNT games.

Read full review

Full review

90

Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Aug 29, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is the best thing Konami has released in a long while and sets the gold standard for retro collections.

Read full review

Full review

90

Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Oct 3, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a nostalgic compilation that celebrates the games and the franchise at its peak.

Read full review

Full review

90

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Aug 29, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the game as one of the best retro packages and enjoyable for fans of the Turtles or their video game exploits.

Read full review

Full review

90

GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a painstakingly crafted love letter to a by-gone era of gaming, and states that it is a collection well worth the asking price.


90

ZTGD

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that the Cowabunga Collection is a must-own and praises the quality of life updates added by the developers.

Read full review

Full review

90

IGN Adria

PlayStation 5

Sep 9, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection is a retro release that surpasses expectations. It offers high-quality emulation, numerous options for each game, and a wealth of bonus content. It is a must-have for fans of the original games or those looking to experience them for the first time.

Read full review

Full review
Similar Games
left arrow
left arrow
sliderImage

90

Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition

2014
sliderImage
Star Icon

83

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge

2022
sliderImage
Star Icon

80

Rare Replay

2015
sliderImage

77

Wulverblade

2017
sliderImage

72

9 Monkeys of Shaolin

2020
sliderImage

76

Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle

2018
sliderImage

76

Sega Genesis Classics

2010
sliderImage

60

Code Shifter

2020
sliderImage

54

SkyScrappers

2015
sliderImage

59

Dusty Raging Fist

2018
sliderImage
Star Icon

82

Streets of Rage 4

2020
sliderImage
Star Icon

78

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game - Complete Edition

2021
sliderImage
Star Icon

82

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics

2024
sliderImage

81

Blazing Chrome

2019
sliderImage

78

Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium

2022
sliderImage

78

Unruly Heroes

2019
sliderImage

81

River City Girls

2019
sliderImage

87

Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration

2022

About

Contact Us

Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

Navigation

Home

Search

Games


Follow Us

© 2025 MonsterCritic