Mort the Chicken, a character from a relatively obscure PlayStation game released in 2000, has found a surprising resurgence in popularity thanks to his inclusion in the indie game “Pizza Tower.” But how did this chicken with a comb-over end up in a fast-paced platformer? Let’s dive into the history and the fascinating journey of Mort the Chicken from his origins to his unexpected appearance in “Pizza Tower.”
Who is Mort the Chicken?
The Origins Mort the Chicken debuted in a 2000 PlayStation game titled “Mort the Chicken,” developed by AndNow and published by Crave Entertainment. The game featured Mort, a quirky chicken, as the protagonist on a mission to save baby chicks from evil cubes. While the game was a light-hearted platformer, it didn’t achieve widespread success and faded into obscurity over the years.
Character Traits Mort is characterized by his distinctive comb-over hairstyle, his quirky personality, and his ability to peck, jump, and glide. Despite the game’s mixed reviews, Mort became a cult character, cherished by those who appreciated the unique charm of his game.
What is Pizza Tower?
Game Overview “Pizza Tower” is a fast-paced 2D platformer heavily inspired by the Wario Land series, developed by Tour De Pizza. The game features Peppino Spaghetti, a nervous pizza chef, who must navigate through various levels filled with enemies and obstacles. Known for its retro-style graphics, energetic gameplay, and humor, “Pizza Tower” has garnered a loyal fan base.
Character Inclusions One of the intriguing aspects of “Pizza Tower” is its inclusion of characters from other games, often as easter eggs or cameos. The game pays homage to the 90s and early 2000s gaming culture, making it a nostalgic trip for many players.
How Did Mort the Chicken Get in Pizza Tower?
The Cameo Mort the Chicken’s appearance in “Pizza Tower” is a delightful nod to fans of retro gaming. He appears as an unlockable character in the game, serving as a nostalgic callback to those who remember his original PlayStation game. Mort’s inclusion is a tribute to the quirky and offbeat characters from the past that have been largely forgotten by mainstream gaming.
The Connection The developers of “Pizza Tower” are known for their love of obscure and cult classic games, which is likely why Mort was chosen as a guest character. Mort’s personality and design fit well with the whimsical and chaotic world of “Pizza Tower,” making his inclusion feel both surprising and fitting.
The Impact of Mort’s Inclusion
Fan Reactions Fans of both games were thrilled to see Mort the Chicken make a comeback. His appearance in “Pizza Tower” has introduced the character to a new generation of gamers, while also delighting those who remember his original game. This cameo has sparked renewed interest in “Mort the Chicken,” leading some players to revisit or discover the original PlayStation game.
Cultural Significance Mort’s inclusion in “Pizza Tower” highlights the lasting impact of even the most obscure characters in video game history. It serves as a reminder that no character is truly forgotten, and that even decades-old games can find a new life through passionate developers and fan communities.
Mort the Chicken’s unexpected appearance in “Pizza Tower” is a testament to the enduring charm of retro gaming. While Mort may have been a forgotten character from the early 2000s, his inclusion in this modern platformer has breathed new life into his legacy. For fans of quirky and offbeat video game characters, Mort’s journey from PlayStation to “Pizza Tower” is a delightful surprise that showcases the enduring appeal of classic gaming culture.
