The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a staple of many gamers' childhoods, with its iconic games and beloved characters. One game in particular stood out from the rest: Ninja Gaiden III. Released in 1991, this action-adventure platformer was part of a trilogy that followed the adventures of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja warrior on a quest for revenge.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at Ninja Gaiden III, including its features, gameplay, and availability. We'll also discuss the game's age rating and why it remains relevant today.
Gameplay and Features
Ninja Gaiden III is an action-adventure platformer that follows Ryu Hayabusa as he navigates through various environments, fighting enemies and collecting power-ups to aid him in his quest for revenge. The gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, with an emphasis on precision jumping and combat.
One of the standout features of Ninja Gaiden III is its use of special moves, which can be activated by performing specific combinations of button presses. These moves include Ryu's ninja stars, shuriken, and other projectiles that can be used to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles.
The game also features a variety of environments, including forests, cities, and underground temples. Each environment is filled with hidden secrets and collectibles, which players must discover in order to unlock new areas and continue their progress through the game.
Age Rating
Ninja Gaiden III was originally rated "Teen" by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) when it was first released. This rating indicates that the game contains some mild violence and suggestive content, but is generally suitable for players aged 13 and above.
However, in recent years, many classic NES games like Ninja Gaiden III have been re-released with new age ratings due to changes in societal norms and expectations around video game content.
In 2014, Ninja Gaiden III: The Dragon's Temple was re-released as part of the Nintendo Virtual Console service. This version was rated "E for Everyone" by the ESRB, indicating that it contains no violence or suggestive content.
Availability
Ninja Gaiden III is available on various platforms, including the NES, SNES, and Game Boy Advance. The game has also been re-released as part of several compilation packs and remastered collections over the years.
In 2014, Ninja Gaiden III: The Dragon's Temple was re-released as part of the Nintendo Virtual Console service for the Wii U and Wii. This version features updated graphics and sound, but retains the original game's challenging gameplay and nostalgic charm.
The game has also been included in several NES-themed collections, including the "NES Classic Edition" and the "Super NES Classic Edition." These miniature retro consoles allow players to relive the nostalgia of classic NES games like Ninja Gaiden III.
In 2019, Ninja Gaiden III was re-released as part of the Nintendo Switch Online service, which offers a growing library of NES games for subscribers. This version features updated graphics and sound, but retains the original game's challenging gameplay and nostalgic charm.
Conclusion
Ninja Gaiden III is a classic NES game that remains popular among retro gamers today. Its challenging gameplay, fast-paced action, and nostalgic charm have made it a beloved title in the world of video games.
While the game was originally rated "Teen" by the ESRB, its re-released versions have been given more favorable ratings due to changes in societal norms and expectations around video game content.
Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or just looking for a new challenge, Ninja Gaiden III is definitely worth checking out. Its availability on various platforms, including the NES, SNES, Game Boy Advance, Wii U, Wii, NES Classic Edition, Super NES Classic Edition, and Nintendo Switch Online, makes it easy to access and play.
So why not give Ninja Gaiden III a try? With its challenging gameplay, nostalgic charm, and updated graphics and sound, this classic NES game is sure to provide hours of entertainment for gamers of all ages.