The nostalgia of retro gaming is a feeling that many of us can relate to. For those who grew up in the 80s and 90s, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was more than just a gaming console – it was an experience. The NES had an incredible library of games that still hold up today, and one of them is the obscure yet fascinating "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" (also known as "Kizuna Jigoku Tachi" in Japan).
Developed by SNK, a renowned developer behind many iconic fighting games, "Exciting Boxing" was originally released on the Neo Geo MVS arcade system. The game's unique blend of boxing and Japanese folklore made it an instant hit among fans of the series. However, due to its limited release window and lack of marketing, "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" remains one of the most enigmatic games in the NES library.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing," exploring its fascinating history, gameplay mechanics, and why it's worth trying out on Windows before purchasing the original game.
A Brief History of SNK
Before diving into the specifics of "Exciting Boxing," let's take a moment to appreciate the rich history of SNK. Founded in 1978 by Eikichi Matsuda, SNK began its journey as a small company producing various arcade games and merchandise. Over the years, SNK developed some of the most iconic fighting games of all time, including "Art of Fighting," "Fatal Fury," and "The King of Fighters" series.
The Birth of Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing
Released in 1991, "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" was one of the many titles SNK released on the Neo Geo MVS arcade system. The game's unique concept combined elements of Japanese folklore with a boxing tournament setting, making it an instant hit among fans of the series.
The game follows the story of a young boxer named Gennaro "Gennie" Lombardi, who must defeat various opponents from Japanese mythology to become the champion. Players can choose from six different characters, each with their unique abilities and fighting styles.
Gameplay Mechanics
So, what makes "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" so exciting (pun intended)? The gameplay mechanics are simple yet addictive:
- Players control Gennie or one of his five opponents as they face off against various foes from Japanese mythology.
- Each character has a unique set of moves, including punches, kicks, and special attacks inspired by Japanese folklore.
- As players progress through the game, they'll encounter increasingly challenging opponents, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
The Nintendo NES Port
While "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" was initially released on the Neo Geo MVS arcade system, it has never been officially released on the NES console. However, in 2020, a fan-made port of the game became available for download on Windows, courtesy of the ROMHacking community.
The fan-made port is an impressive achievement, considering the original game was developed using SNK's proprietary Neo Geo hardware. The port features all the same gameplay mechanics and charm as the original arcade version, with some minor tweaks to accommodate the NES hardware.
Why Try It on Windows Before Buying?
So, why should you try out "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" on Windows before purchasing the original game? Here are a few compelling reasons:
- Experience the Game in its Full Form: The fan-made port provides an authentic experience of the game as it was originally intended. You'll be able to appreciate the unique blend of boxing and Japanese folklore that made "Exciting Boxing" so beloved among fans.
- Save Time and Money: By trying out the game on Windows, you can determine if you truly enjoy playing it before shelling out money for the original cartridge. This is especially helpful for those who may not have access to a working NES console or are hesitant to invest in a rare collector's item.
- Support the ROMHacking Community: By downloading and playing the fan-made port, you're directly supporting the efforts of talented developers within the ROMHacking community. These individuals dedicate countless hours to creating ports, hacks, and conversions that allow us to experience classic games on modern hardware.
Conclusion
"Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" is a hidden gem in the world of retro gaming. With its unique blend of boxing and Japanese folklore, this game has captured the hearts of many fans over the years. By trying out the fan-made port on Windows, you'll be able to experience the game in all its glory before deciding whether or not to invest in the original cartridge.
Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or just looking for something new to try, "Let's Try the Nintendo NES Exciting Boxing" is definitely worth checking out. So, what are you waiting for? Download the fan-made port and get ready to experience one of the most fascinating games in the NES library.