The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a pioneering home video game console released by Nintendo in 1985. Over the years, it has become an iconic piece of gaming history, with numerous titles that still hold up today. One such classic is Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games, a fighting game based on the popular manga and anime series of the same name. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games, explore its features, and discuss its age rating.
Background
Kinnikuman, also known as "Muscle Man" in Japanese, is a popular manga and anime series created by Yukiru Sugisaki. The series follows the adventures of Kinnikuman, a powerful warrior from the planet Muscleman, who travels to Earth to compete in martial arts tournaments and fight against various villains. The franchise was incredibly successful in Japan and spawned numerous video games, TV shows, and other media.
The NES version of Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games was released in 1990 in Japan and later in Europe and North America in 1991. Developed by T&E Soft and published by Nintendo, the game took the popular manga series to the fighting game scene, pitting Kinnikuman against other iconic characters from the franchise.
Gameplay
Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games is a one-on-one fighting game that features Kinnikuman as the main protagonist. Players can choose from various opponents, each with their unique abilities and strengths. The gameplay revolves around basic punching and kicking mechanics, with players aiming to knock out their opponents by landing a perfect hit.
The game features six stages, each set in a different location inspired by the manga series. These stages are:
- Kinnikuman's hometown (Muscleman)
- The Japanese mainland
- The city of New York
- A jungle area
- An alien planet ( Muscleman-III)
- A final showdown at the Muscleman Castle
Each stage is filled with obstacles and hazards that can affect gameplay, such as moving platforms, falling objects, or environmental traps.
The game also features various power-ups and special moves, including Kinnikuman's signature "Muscle Man" technique. Players can earn extra points by landing consecutive hits on opponents.
Age Rating
Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games is rated for all ages in Japan and Europe, but it has a slightly more mature rating in North America. According to the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the game is rated "E" for Everyone in North America, indicating that it's suitable for players of all ages.
However, some violence and cartoonish blood are present in the game, so parental discretion is advised when allowing children to play. The ESRB rating highlights the following features:
- Comic mischief
- Mild cartoon violence
Overall, Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games is a lighthearted and fun fighting game that's suitable for players of all ages.
Reception
Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games received generally positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised the game's colorful graphics, catchy sound effects, and addictive gameplay. The game was also commended for its faithfulness to the original manga series, capturing the spirit of Kinnikuman's adventures.
Commercially, the game performed well in Japan and Europe, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games is considered a classic fighting game by many retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique blend of martial arts combat, colorful graphics, and cartoonish violence has made it an iconic title in Nintendo's NES library.
The game's success also spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, including Kinnikuman: The Way to the Crown and Kinnikuman: Revenge. These games continued to evolve the series, introducing new gameplay mechanics and characters while maintaining its signature style.
In recent years, retro gaming enthusiasts have rediscovered Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games, and it has become a beloved title among collectors and players alike.
Conclusion
Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games is a charming fighting game that captures the spirit of the popular manga series. With its colorful graphics, addictive gameplay, and lighthearted tone, the game is suitable for players of all ages. While some violence and cartoonish blood are present in the game, it's rated E by the ESRB, indicating that it's a fun and family-friendly experience.
As a retro gaming classic, Kinnikuman: Dreammatch Games continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its legacy as an iconic Nintendo NES title serves as a testament to the power of the franchise and its enduring appeal among gamers worldwide.