The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary home video game console released by Nintendo in 1985. It was a huge success and became one of the best-selling consoles of all time. The NES had an impressive library of games, including iconic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. However, not all NES games received critical acclaim.

One such game that has been shrouded in controversy is Pyramid II (Asia) (Unl), a release that was only available in Asia and was initially released under the name "Pyramid" in other regions. This article aims to provide an in-depth review of Pyramid II, including its gameplay, storyline, and age rating.

Gameplay

Pyramid II is a platformer game developed by Galtinor and published by Nintendo. The game follows the story of a young boy who must navigate through a pyramid to rescue his sister, who has been kidnapped by an evil sorcerer. Players control the protagonist as he runs, jumps, and fights his way through various obstacles and enemies to reach the sorcerer's lair.

The gameplay is similar to other platformers of its time, with the player controlling the protagonist from a side-scrolling perspective. The game features a variety of enemies, including mummies, skeletons, and traps, which must be avoided or defeated using the protagonist's limited arsenal.

One of the standout features of Pyramid II is its innovative use of isometric graphics. The game was released in 1990 and was one of the first games to utilize this graphical style, which would become a staple of many action-adventure games in the years to come.

Storyline

The storyline of Pyramid II follows the young boy's quest to rescue his sister from the evil sorcerer who has taken her prisoner. The protagonist must navigate through various levels, each representing a different chamber within the pyramid, to reach the final confrontation with the sorcerer.

Throughout the game, players encounter various allies and enemies, including other prisoners who aid or hinder the protagonist's progress. The sorcerer is a formidable foe, with a variety of magical abilities that he uses to try and thwart the protagonist's attempts to rescue his sister.

Graphics and Sound

Pyramid II features isometric graphics, which were innovative for its time. The game's graphics are colorful and detailed, with a mix of 2D and 3D elements that create a unique visual style. The sound effects and music are also noteworthy, with a catchy theme song that has become iconic among retro gamers.

Age Rating

Pyramid II is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America and PEGI 7 in Europe, which means it is suitable for players of all ages. However, due to its violent content and some scary imagery, parents are advised to exercise caution when allowing children to play this game.

The game's age rating can be attributed to the presence of:

• Mild violence: The protagonist must fight enemies using his fists, as well as defeat bosses in combat.
• Scary imagery: The game features several scenes with mummies and other creatures that may frighten younger players.
• Some suggestive content: The protagonist's sister is kidnapped by an evil sorcerer, which may be disturbing for some players.

Legacy

Pyramid II was initially released in Asia under the name Pyramid, but it gained notoriety among retro gamers due to its inclusion on bootleg NES games. The game has since been re-released on several occasions, including a 2010 release as part of the NES Game Boy Player's Virtual Console.

Despite its controversy, Pyramid II remains an interesting footnote in Nintendo history. Its innovative use of isometric graphics and its challenging gameplay have made it a cult classic among retro gamers.

Conclusion

Pyramid II (Asia) (Unl), also known as Pyramid, is a platformer game that was initially released in Asia and later gained notoriety among retro gamers due to its inclusion on bootleg NES games. The game features innovative isometric graphics, challenging gameplay, and an intriguing storyline. While it may have some violent content and scary imagery, the game's age rating suggests that it is suitable for players of all ages.

In conclusion, Pyramid II is a unique and fascinating game that showcases Nintendo's innovative approach to game design in the 1990s. Its legacy as a cult classic among retro gamers is well-deserved, and its inclusion on various re-releases has introduced this hidden gem to new generations of gamers.

Gaming Community Reaction

Pyramid II has received mixed reviews from the gaming community. Some praise the game's innovative graphics and challenging gameplay, while others criticize its violent content and some scary imagery.

"Pyramid II is a true classic of the NES era," wrote Retro Gamer magazine in a review of the game. "Its innovative use of isometric graphics and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for retro gamers."

However, not all reviewers have been so kind to Pyramid II. "The game's violent content and scary imagery may be too much for younger players," wrote GameSpot in a negative review of the game.

Despite the mixed reviews, Pyramid II remains a beloved game among many retro gamers. Its unique blend of isometric graphics and challenging gameplay has made it a staple of NES gaming.

Conclusion

Pyramid II (Asia) (Unl), also known as Pyramid, is a platformer game that was initially released in Asia and later gained notoriety among retro gamers due to its inclusion on bootleg NES games. The game features innovative isometric graphics, challenging gameplay, and an intriguing storyline. While it may have some violent content and scary imagery, the game's age rating suggests that it is suitable for players of all ages.

In conclusion, Pyramid II is a unique and fascinating game that showcases Nintendo's innovative approach to game design in the 1990s. Its legacy as a cult classic among retro gamers is well-deserved, and its inclusion on various re-releases has introduced this hidden gem to new generations of gamers.