Gameplay:
The gameplay of The Death and Return of Superman is straightforward and enjoyable. As players take control of Superman, Superboy, Steel, Cyborg Superman, or the Eradicator, they navigate through various levels filled with hordes of enemies and boss battles. Each character has their unique set of abilities and moves, adding a layer of variety to the gameplay. The controls are responsive, making it satisfying to deliver powerful punches, heat vision blasts, and super-powered attacks.

The game offers a decent challenge, with enemy AI that progressively gets tougher as you advance. The level design is well-crafted, providing a mix of platforming elements and combat encounters. While the game primarily focuses on beat 'em up mechanics, there are occasional puzzle-solving segments that break the monotony. However, the lack of multiplayer mode is a missed opportunity, as cooperative play would have added even more fun and replay value.

Graphics:
Considering the limitations of the SNES hardware, The Death and Return of Superman boasts impressive visuals. The character sprites are detailed and accurately represent their comic book counterparts. The environments are varied, taking players through familiar locations like Metropolis and even the depths of space. The animations are smooth, and the game maintains a consistent frame rate, ensuring a visually pleasing experience throughout.

One notable aspect is the excellent attention to detail in the game's cutscenes. They effectively capture the emotional beats of the story, bringing to life the iconic moments from the Death and Return of Superman comic arc. Whether it's witnessing Superman's final battle against Doomsday or the return of the Man of Steel, the game excels at recreating these significant events.

Sound:
The audio design in The Death and Return of Superman deserves praise. The game features a memorable soundtrack that enhances the overall atmosphere, from heroic themes during intense battles to somber melodies during moments of loss. The sound effects, such as punches and laser blasts, are impactful and satisfying. The game also includes voice samples, albeit limited, which add a touch of authenticity to the characters.

Overall Experience:
The Death and Return of Superman successfully captures the essence of the iconic comic book storyline while delivering an enjoyable beat 'em up experience. Fans of the Man of Steel will appreciate the nostalgic trip down memory lane, reliving the dramatic events that unfolded in the original story. The gameplay, graphics, and sound combine to create an engaging and immersive experience.

While the lack of multiplayer and relatively short playtime may disappoint some, the game compensates with its faithful adaptation of the source material and solid gameplay mechanics. The Death and Return of Superman stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Superman and remains a notable title in the SNES library.