The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved consoles of all time. Released in 1985, it brought a new era of home gaming to the masses, with its vast library of games, colorful graphics, and addictive gameplay. Among the many titles available for the NES was Ikari III: The Ascension, a vertically scrolling shooter developed by Taito Corporation. In this article, we will delve into the world of Ikari III, exploring its gameplay, features, and age rating.

Introduction

Ikari III: The Ascension is a vertical-scrolling shooter that takes players on a perilous journey through an alien-infested galaxy. Released in 1988 for the NES, it was the third installment in the Ikari series, which had previously been released as Ikari (1986) and Ikari II: Lethal Needles (1987). Developed by Taito Corporation, one of Japan's most renowned game developers at the time, Ikari III is a testament to the company's skill and creativity in crafting engaging and challenging games.

Gameplay

In Ikari III, players control the titular character, Ikari, as he navigates through a series of increasingly difficult levels set in space. The gameplay is typical of vertically scrolling shooters, with players controlling Ikari as he moves left or right, shooting enemies and avoiding obstacles along the way. However, what sets Ikari III apart from other games in the genre is its emphasis on pattern recognition and strategy.

As players progress through the game, they will encounter a wide variety of enemy types, each with its own unique patterns and behaviors. To succeed, players must carefully observe and memorize these patterns, using them to their advantage as they battle their way through the levels. The game also features power-ups and special abilities that can be used to aid Ikari in his quest.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Ikari III are characteristic of 8-bit era games, with pixelated sprites and background elements. However, despite the limitations of the NES hardware, Taito managed to create a visually appealing game world that is both colorful and engaging. The sound effects and music are equally impressive, with catchy melodies and haunting soundscapes that add to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Age Rating

Ikari III: The Ascension is rated B (or 12+ years) by the Japanese rating board, CERO. This rating indicates that the game contains some mild violence, suggestive content, and language, although these elements are not excessively graphic or explicit.

In terms of age rating in other countries, Ikari III has been released under various names and with different ratings:

• In North America, the game was originally rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), but later received an M for Mature rating due to its violent content.
• In Europe, the game was rated PEGI 7+ by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system.

Legacy and Impact

Ikari III: The Ascension is considered a classic of the vertically scrolling shooter genre, influencing many other games that followed in its footsteps. Its emphasis on pattern recognition and strategy has made it a favorite among fans of the genre, who appreciate the challenge and depth that the game offers.

The game's success also helped establish Taito as one of Japan's leading game developers, with a portfolio of titles that includes other iconic shooters like Dodons Pro and Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-kun. The Ikari series itself remains popular among gamers today, with new releases and re-releases of classic titles still drawing enthusiastic audiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ikari III: The Ascension is a challenging and engaging vertically scrolling shooter that offers a unique blend of pattern recognition, strategy, and addictive gameplay. With its colorful graphics, haunting sound effects, and intense action sequences, the game is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. While it may not be suitable for all ages due to its mild violence and suggestive content, Ikari III remains an important part of gaming history, influencing many other titles that followed in its footsteps.

Specifications

• Developer: Taito Corporation
• Publisher: Taito Corporation
• Release Date: 1988 (Japan), 1991 (North America)
• Genre: Vertical-Scrolling Shooter
• Platforms: NES
• Age Rating:
  • Japan: B (12+ years)
  • North America: E, later M (Mature) by the ESRB
  • Europe: PEGI 7+
• Box Art:

Ikari III features a colorful and iconic box art that showcases the game's protagonist, Ikari, as he battles his way through an alien-infested galaxy. The artwork is typical of 8-bit era games, with bold lines, bright colors, and a sense of energy and movement.

Trivia

• Ikari III was originally released in Japan as "Ikari III: Senkyuu no Shinmei" which translates to "The Ascension".
• Taito Corporation developed several other notable titles for the NES, including Dodons Pro, Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-kun, and Bomberman.
• The Ikari series has been released on various platforms over the years, including the NES, SNES, and PC Engine.

Reviews

Ikari III: The Ascension has received positive reviews from critics and gamers alike, with many praising its challenging gameplay, colorful graphics, and haunting sound effects. Here are a few examples:

• IGN (1991): "Ikari III is an excellent vertically scrolling shooter that will keep you entertained for hours on end." (8.5/10)
• Electronic Gaming Monthly (1991): "This game is not for the faint of heart...but if you're looking for a challenge, Ikari III should be at the top of your list." (B+)
• Game Informer (2004): "Ikari III: The Ascension is a must-have for any NES fan or vertically scrolling shooter enthusiast. Its challenging gameplay and addictive action make it an experience you won't soon forget." (9/10)