The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary gaming console that has been entertaining gamers for decades. One of the most iconic and beloved games of all time is "Noah's Ark," which was released in Europe as part of the NES library. In this article, we'll delve into the world of "Noah's Ark" and explore its features, gameplay, and age rating.

What is Noah's Ark?

"Noah's Ark" is a platformer game developed by Sunsoft, a Japanese video game developer that was active during the 1980s and 1990s. The game was released in Europe in the late 1980s as part of the NES library and has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Gameplay

In "Noah's Ark," players control Noah, the protagonist of the biblical story, as he navigates through various levels set on an ark. The game is divided into several worlds, each with its unique challenges and obstacles. Players must guide Noah through treacherous waters, avoid deadly creatures, and collect items to progress through the levels.

The gameplay mechanics are simple yet addictive, making "Noah's Ark" a great example of a classic platformer. Players can move left or right, jump, and use special abilities like swimming and diving to overcome challenges. The game also features a variety of enemies, including giant snakes, crocodiles, and other creatures that players must avoid or defeat.

Art and Audio

The graphics in "Noah's Ark" are colorful and vibrant, with a distinctive art style that sets the game apart from other NES titles. The characters and environments are beautifully rendered, making the game a joy to watch.

The audio in "Noah's Ark" is equally impressive, with catchy and memorable music that adds to the overall atmosphere of the game. The sound effects are also well-designed, with satisfying noises for when Noah lands on platforms or defeats enemies.

Age Rating

As with any video game, "Noah's Ark" carries an age rating that depends on the region and platform it is released on. In Europe, where the game was originally released, the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) has assigned a rating of 7+ to "Noah's Ark." This rating indicates that the game is suitable for players aged 7 and above.

In other regions, such as North America, the game may have been rated differently. For example, in some versions of the NES, "Noah's Ark" was released with a rating of E (Everyone) by the ESRB.

Impact and Legacy

"Noah's Ark" has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing many other platformers that followed in its footsteps. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, charming graphics, and catchy audio have made it a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Today, "Noah's Ark" is considered one of the best games for the NES, and its influence can be seen in many modern platformers. The game has also inspired numerous fan-made remixes, mods, and reinterpretations that showcase the game's enduring popularity.

Collectibility

"Noah's Ark" is a rare game that can be difficult to find, especially in good condition. As a result, it has become highly collectible among NES enthusiasts and retro gaming collectors. The game's rarity, combined with its nostalgic value, makes it a sought-after item among collectors who are willing to pay top dollar for rare and hard-to-find games.

Conclusion

"Noah's Ark" is a classic platformer that has stood the test of time, offering hours of entertaining gameplay and challenging puzzles. With its colorful graphics, catchy audio, and addictive gameplay, the game is sure to delight retro gaming enthusiasts and newcomers alike. If you're looking for a fun and nostalgic gaming experience, "Noah's Ark" is definitely worth checking out.

Technical Details

• Developer: Sunsoft
• Publisher: Nintendo of Europe
• Release Date: 1988 (Europe)
• Genre: Platformer
• Format: NES cartridge
• Players: 1-2 players
• Age Rating: ESRB 7+ (Europe)

Interesting Facts

• "Noah's Ark" was one of the first games to feature a protagonist who is a main character in his own story.
• The game's developers, Sunsoft, were known for creating innovative and challenging platformers that pushed the limits of what was possible on the NES.
• "Noah's Ark" has been released in several different versions over the years, including a remake for the Game Boy Advance and a compilation of classic NES games called "Nintendo All-Stars: Mega Man 2 & DuckTales."
• The game's music has been praised by many retro gaming enthusiasts as one of the best aspects of the game.