The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a legendary gaming console that brought joy to millions of gamers around the world during its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s. One of the most popular games for this iconic console is Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match, a unique fighting game that combines elements of wrestling and tag-team battling. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match and explore its features, gameplay, and age rating.

Introduction to Kinnikuman

Kinnikuman is a popular manga series created by Yukirō Fujimoto in 1978. The series follows the adventures of Kinnikuman, a young boy from Mexico who becomes a superhero known as "The Muscle Man." With his incredible strength and agility, Kinnikuman battles various villains and saves the world from destruction.

NES Version: Muscle Tag Match

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is an adaptation of the popular manga series, developed by SNK Corporation (then known as Naksan) in 1987. This game was released in Japan for the NES console and features a unique gameplay mechanic that deviates from traditional fighting games.

In Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match, players take on the role of Kinnikuman or one of his opponents, competing in tag-team battles. The objective is to knock out your opponent's partner or eliminate them by throwing them into the ring. The game features a unique "tag-out" system, where players can switch between their two characters to use different attacks and strategies.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics in Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match are simple yet addictive. Players can perform various attacks, including punches, kicks, and throws. Each character has its own strengths and weaknesses, which must be exploited to gain an advantage over your opponent.

One of the most interesting aspects of this game is the "tag-out" system, where players can switch between their two characters to use different attacks and strategies. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, as players must carefully consider when to switch characters to maximize their chances of victory.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The graphics in Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match are typical of late 1980s NES games. The character sprites are simple, yet expressive, with each fighter having its own unique design. The background art is also straightforward, featuring simple environments that add to the overall aesthetic of the game.

The soundtrack, composed by Michiru Yamane and Kazuhiko Sawano, is catchy and upbeat, perfectly capturing the energetic atmosphere of a wrestling match. The music is also memorable, with many fans still humming the theme song today.

Age Rating

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is rated E for Everyone (13+) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it's suitable for players aged 13 and above due to mild cartoon violence and brief suggestive themes.

In Japan, the game was originally rated C for Children (ages 10+), but this rating has since been upgraded to A (all ages) following a reevaluation by the Japanese government.

Availability

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is an extremely rare game, even in Japan. Due to its limited release and aging hardware, the game is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

In recent years, several online retailers have listed the game for sale, with prices ranging from $100 to over $1,000, depending on the condition and completeness of the package. For those who are lucky enough to find a copy, Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is an excellent addition to any NES collection.

Conclusion

Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is a unique and entertaining game that showcases the creativity and innovation of late 1980s developers. With its simple yet addictive gameplay mechanics, catchy soundtrack, and nostalgic value, this game is a must-have for any retro gaming enthusiast.

While the age rating may be somewhat ambiguous due to the game's cartoon violence and suggestive themes, Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match remains an enjoyable experience that is suitable for most players. If you're looking to add some variety to your NES collection or simply want to try something new, Kinnikuman - Muscle Tag Match is definitely worth checking out.

Additional Information

If you're interested in learning more about the Kinnikuman manga series or other SNK games, here are a few additional resources:

• The official Kinnikuman website features character profiles, episode guides, and merchandise.
• SNK Corporation has released several remakes and ports of their classic games over the years, including Kinnikuman: The Game (1996) for the Neo Geo MVS arcade board.
• Other popular fighting games from the same era include Art of Fighting (1992), Fatal Fury: King of Fighters (1991), and Samurai Shodown (1993).

For collectors and enthusiasts looking to expand their NES library, there are many other great games available, including:

• The Legend of Zelda (1986)
• Metroid (1986)
• Contra (1987)
• Castlevania (1986)
• Mega Man (1989)

These classic titles are not only nostalgic but also offer a glimpse into the evolution of gaming over the past few decades.