The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking console released by Nintendo in 1985. It revolutionized the home video game industry and remains one of the most beloved consoles of all time. Among its impressive library of games, Metal Storm stands out as a unique and exciting title that has garnered significant attention from retro gaming enthusiasts.

Metal Storm is a side-scrolling shooter developed by Taito and released in 1989 for the NES. The game follows the story of two agents, Alpha and Bravo, who must fight against an evil organization known as ALICE (Anti-Life Insect Computer Enemy). Players control one of the agents as they navigate through various levels, fighting enemies, collecting power-ups, and destroying enemy bases.

One of the standout features of Metal Storm is its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay. The game requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking to overcome the obstacles presented by ALICE's minions. The controls are precise, allowing players to dodge attacks and target specific enemies with ease. The level design is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of vertical and horizontal scrolling sections that keep players on their toes.

Graphics and Sound

Metal Storm boasts impressive graphics for its time, with detailed backgrounds, animated sprites, and vibrant color schemes. The enemy designs are equally impressive, ranging from humanoid creatures to mechanical beasts. While the game's visuals may seem dated compared to modern standards, they still hold up remarkably well today.

The sound design in Metal Storm is equally impressive, with catchy electronic music and sound effects that enhance the overall atmosphere of the game. The boss battles feature epic music sequences that add to the game's tension and excitement.

Age Rating

Metal Storm has been rated by various organizations over the years, including PEGI (Pan European Game Information) and ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board).

• PEGI: 7+ - Metal Storm was initially released in Europe without a rating, but it received a 7+ age restriction from PEGI due to its violent content.
• ESRB: M - In the United States, Metal Storm was rated M for Mature by the ESRB, citing its "Violence" and "Blood".

These ratings reflect the game's mature themes, violence, and occasional blood splatter. However, it's worth noting that these elements are presented in a cartoonish manner, making the game more suitable for younger players who can differentiate between fantasy and reality.

Preservation and Legacy

Metal Storm has been preserved by various retro gaming organizations and is still playable on original NES hardware. The game has also been re-released on several occasions, including as part of the Taito Legends collection in 2004.

The game's influence can be seen in later side-scrollers, such as Metal Slug and Gunstar Heroes. Metal Storm's fast-paced action and challenging gameplay have made it a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts, who continue to appreciate its unique blend of style and substance.

Conclusion

Metal Storm is a hidden gem in the NES library that deserves more attention from retro gaming fans. Its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics make it an exciting experience for players of all ages. While its age rating may be M due to violence and blood, the game's cartoonish presentation makes it suitable for younger players who can distinguish between fantasy and reality.

If you're a fan of retro gaming or simply looking for a new challenge, Metal Storm is definitely worth checking out. Its preservation by retro gaming organizations ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy this classic side-scroller for years to come.