Rick Taylor
The protagonist, a college student who enters the West Mansion and is transformed into a powerful masked fighter.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick | Move Rick The arcade joystick provides eight-way movement. |
|---|---|
Attack button | Attack with Rick's current weapon or hand-to-hand move The exact cabinet label may vary by machine. |
Jump button | Jump Use it to evade hazards and reach targets during attacks. |
Control notes
The original arcade control layout uses an eight-way joystick and dedicated attack and jump buttons.
Cabinet button labels can differ between arcade installations.
How it plays
How does Splatterhouse play?
Splatterhouse is a linear side-scrolling action game viewed from the side. Rick advances through seven stages inside and around the West Mansion, defeating enemies and avoiding hazards before confronting a stage boss.
The player moves with an eight-way joystick and uses separate attack and jump buttons. Weapons such as boards, cleavers, and rocks can change how encounters are handled, but they are temporary. Progress depends on learning enemy patterns, conserving health, and recognizing traps; continuing after defeat restarts the current stage or uses the arcade machine's continuation rules.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Splatterhouse?
Treat each screen as a pattern-recognition challenge rather than rushing forward. Keep enemies at the edge of Rick's attack range, and use jump attacks when approaching threats that are difficult to hit from the ground.
- Learn the timing of projectile enemies and traps before committing to a new section.
- Use temporary weapons quickly and safely; do not take unnecessary damage trying to preserve them.
- Save a comfortable health margin for bosses, whose attack patterns are usually more important than speed.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Jennifer Willis
Rick's partner, who is taken into the mansion and becomes the central rescue objective.
Terror Mask
A supernatural mask that revives and empowers Rick, while exerting its own mysterious influence.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Study enemy placement and avoid advancing blindly into the next screen.
- 2
Use the attack button while facing approaching enemies, then reposition before they surround Rick.
- 3
Jump over hazards only when the landing area is clear.
Community discussion
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