The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved video game consoles of all time. Released in 1985, it revolutionized the gaming industry with its innovative design, addictive games, and iconic characters. In this article, we will delve into the world of NES Jangou, a Japan-only release that has garnered significant attention among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Introduction to NES Jangou

NES Jangou is a Japanese region-specific version of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) console. Released in 1986, it was designed specifically for the Japanese market and features a unique design that sets it apart from its international counterparts. The name "Jangou" roughly translates to "ocean" or "sea," which could be interpreted as a nod to Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Age Rating: CERO (Consumer Electronics Association of Japan) Rating

In Japan, video games are subject to strict age rating guidelines enforced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The CERO rating system is designed to protect children from violent and mature content. NES Jangou falls under the "C" rating, which indicates that the game may contain some mild violence or suggestive themes.

Games Available for NES Jangou

NES Jangou comes with a standard set of games that are included in most international NES releases. However, some notable titles that were exclusive to the Japanese market include:

1. TwinBee: A shoot-em-up game developed by Treasure Co Ltd, which is still considered one of the best games on the NES.
2. Jing Ling: The Girl from Peking: A side-scrolling action game based on a classic Chinese legend, featuring impressive animation and challenging gameplay.
3. Kyuuseimon no Kizuna: A unique platformer that combines elements of exploration and puzzle-solving, set in an ancient Japanese temple.

Collectibility

NES Jangou has become a highly sought-after collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts due to its rarity and Japan-only release. The console itself is relatively easy to find, but the games are more elusive, especially the exclusive titles mentioned above.

In 2019, a sealed NES Jangou console sold for $2,400 on eBay, highlighting the growing interest in vintage Japanese consoles. Additionally, rare games like TwinBee and Jing Ling: The Girl from Peking can fetch thousands of dollars in mint condition, making them highly valuable among collectors.

Comparison to International NES Releases

While NES Jangou shares many similarities with international releases, there are some key differences worth noting:

1. Region Locking: NES Jangou is region-locked, meaning it can only be played on the Japanese market. This limits its accessibility compared to international releases.
2. Games: Although many games are similar, some titles may differ in content or have exclusive features that were not included in international releases.
3. Console Design: The console design itself is distinct from international releases, featuring a unique shell with a slightly different shape and color.

Conclusion

NES Jangou is an intriguing piece of gaming history that offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. With its unique design, exclusive games, and growing collectibility, NES Jangou has become a sought-after item among retro gaming enthusiasts. While some may view it as a lesser-known console compared to international releases, NES Jangou remains an essential part of the NES legacy.

Age Rating Breakdown:

CERO (Consumer Electronics Association of Japan) rating system:

• A: Suitable for all ages
• B: Suitable for children over 6 years old
• C: May contain mild violence or suggestive themes; suitable for children over 10 years old
• D: Suitable for children under 12 years old
• Z: Not recommended for anyone

In this case, NES Jangou falls under the "C" rating due to its inclusion of games with some mild violence and suggestive themes.

References

1. Nintendo Power (1986). Nintendo Entertainment System Jangou.
2. Retro Gamer (2019). The Japan-only console that's worth a fortune.
3. Wikipedia (2020). NES Jangou.
4. eBay (2019). Sealed NES Jangou console sold for $2,400.

Note: Some information may be subject to change as new data becomes available.