Classic Games Database
ClassicGames DB

The Lawnmower Man

Review
Also known as
Der Rasenmähermann Le Cobaye Virtual Wars バーチャルウォーズ

Control Jobe in a side-scrolling action game to stop a rogue AI from taking over cyberspace.

The SNES version of The Lawnmower Man was released in 1993 by THQ. The original game was also released in 1993 for computers, making the SNES release year and original release year both 1993.

About The Lawnmower Man

"The Lawnmower Man" is a Super Nintendo title adapted from the 1992 film. The narrative follows Dr. Lawrence Angelo, a scientist whose research into enhancing intelligence through virtual reality and pharmaceuticals is co-opted by a secret agency known as The Shop. His human test subject, Jobe Smith, gains extraordinary mental and telekinetic abilities, leading to a plot for global digital domination.

Gameplay primarily consists of side-scrolling platforming and shooting, where players control either Dr. Angelo or Carla Parkette. Throughout these levels, which include settings like a gas station and corporate headquarters, players can collect improved weaponry and data discs. Accumulating a set number of discs allows a temporary transformation into a Virtual Suit, which offers a single hit of protection.

Interspersed with the standard platforming are several distinct true-3D sequences that connect levels. These segments, inspired by the film's computer-generated imagery, involve navigating virtual environments at high speed. The four types of these sequences present challenging variations, including first-person obstacle avoidance, third-person shooting gauntlets, and fast-paced tunnel runs filled with enemies.

The Lawnmower Man Screenshots

12 images
Title screen.
Title screen/Demo (Japanese version).
Creepy.
Selecting a character.
Part of the intro sequence.
Starting off.
One of the Virtual Reality sequences you'll encounter in the game.
EXIT.
A strange boss.
Another Virtual Reality sequence. These get harder as you progress.
The VR cyberwar sequence. Destroy the threats to move on. The meter on the left shows your health.
The Cyberrun sequence. Meter on the right shows your health, and the meter on the left shows the distance travelled.