The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary console that brought iconic games to the masses during the 1980s and 1990s. One of the lesser-known but still entertaining titles on the NES is Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match, a unique fighting game developed by ADK in Japan. In this article, we will delve into the world of Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match, exploring its gameplay mechanics, features, and availability.

Background

Kinnikuman, also known as Mumen Rider in some regions, is a popular manga and anime series created by Yuusaku Shimada in 1973. The series follows the adventures of Musashi Kunimitsu, a sumo wrestler with superhuman strength, as he fights against evil forces to protect his village and loved ones.

The NES version of Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match was released in Japan in 1987 and features a unique blend of fighting and tag-team gameplay. Players can choose from various fighters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, and engage in local multiplayer battles using the console's two-player capabilities.

Gameplay Mechanics

In Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match, players take turns punching and kicking their opponents while avoiding attacks to gain an advantage. The game features a unique tag-team system, where players can switch between fighters on the fly, using special moves and combos to take down their opponents.

The gameplay is simple yet addictive, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking to outmaneuver your opponent. Players must also manage their fighter's health, as a single hit can result in defeat. The game features various stages, each with its own obstacles and hazards, adding an extra layer of challenge to the already intense combat.

Features

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match boasts several interesting features that set it apart from other fighting games of its time:

1. Unique tag-team system: Players can switch between fighters at any time, using special moves and combos to take down their opponents.
2. Various stages: Each stage has its own obstacles and hazards, adding an extra layer of challenge to the already intense combat.
3. Multiple playable characters: Players can choose from a variety of fighters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
4. Local multiplayer capabilities: Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match supports two-player battles, making it a great option for playing with friends and family.

Availability

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match was originally released in Japan on the Famicom in 1987. The game has since become a cult classic among NES enthusiasts and collectors, but its availability is limited due to the console's rarity.

In recent years, several re-releases of Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match have been made available for various platforms, including:

1. Virtual Console: The game was released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2007, allowing players to experience it on their own consoles.
2. Classic NES: Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match was also included in the Classic NES library for the Nintendo 3DS in 2014.
3. Wario's Woods: The game made its way onto the Wii U Virtual Console as part of Wario's Woods.

Age Rating

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is rated E by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) for Everyone, indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

However, it is worth noting that some of the game's content may not be suitable for younger players due to its mild violence and cartoonish gore. Parental discretion is advised for players under the age of 10.

Conclusion

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is a unique and entertaining fighting game that offers a fresh take on the genre. With its tag-team system, various stages, and multiple playable characters, it is an excellent option for fans of competitive gaming looking for a new challenge.

If you're interested in exploring this hidden gem further, be sure to check out some online resources or visit your local game store to see if they have a copy available.

Overall, Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is an exciting addition to the NES library that showcases the console's capabilities as a platform for innovative and engaging games.