Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu is a classic Japanese game released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in Japan. Developed by T&E Soft, this fast-paced dodgeball game has gained a cult following over the years due to its simplicity and addictive gameplay.

Released in 1989, Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu was one of the first games to utilize the NES's new sound capabilities, which provided an energetic and lively soundtrack that complemented the game's frantic pace. The game's objective is straightforward: players control a team of high school students who must use dodgeballs to knock opponents out while avoiding getting hit themselves.

Gameplay involves two teams, each consisting of five players. Players take turns rolling a dodgeball towards their opponent team members, with the goal of knocking them off balance or hitting them in the face to eliminate them from the game. The team with the most eliminated opponents at the end of the match wins.

One of the defining features of Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu is its simple yet effective controls. Players can move their character left and right using the directional pad, jump using the A button, and roll a dodgeball using the B button. The game also features a "power-up" system, where players can collect bonus items that grant temporary advantages such as increased speed or invincibility.

Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu is often praised for its challenging difficulty level, which requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking to succeed. Players must carefully consider their movements and dodgeball throws to avoid getting hit while trying to knock out opponents. The game's high level of competition also encourages players to develop tactics and work together with their teammates.

The game has gained a cult following over the years due to its nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay. Many retro gaming enthusiasts have fond memories of playing Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu as children, and the game remains a popular choice among retro gaming communities today.

Despite its cult following, Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu has not received an official release outside of Japan. However, the game's availability in certain regions has sparked debate among retro gaming enthusiasts about the age rating assigned to the game.

In Japan, Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu was initially rated "A" by the Japanese equivalent of the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board), indicating that it is suitable for all ages. However, when the game was re-released as a virtual console title in 2006, it was downgraded to a "C" rating, suggesting that it may contain content unsuitable for younger players.

In 2010, the Japanese rating board, CERO (Consumer Electronics Association), officially assigned an E10+ rating to Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu, which indicates that children under the age of 10 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian when playing the game. This rating was likely due to the game's cartoonish violence and competitive nature.

Outside of Japan, the game has not received an official rating from any regional ratings board. However, given its content, it is likely that Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu would receive a similar rating in regions such as North America and Europe.

In conclusion, Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu is a classic Japanese game that has gained a cult following due to its simplicity and addictive gameplay. While the game's availability outside of Japan has sparked debate about its age rating, it remains a popular choice among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its challenging difficulty level and competitive nature make it an engaging experience for players of all ages.

Rating: Suitable for players aged 10 and above, depending on individual maturity levels.

Region Availability:

• Japan (1989)
• Virtual Console (2006) - Rated C
• Japan (2010) - Rated E10+
• No official release outside of Japan

System Compatibility:

• Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)

Number of Players: 2-5