The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary home video game console released by Nintendo in 1985. It was designed to bring arcade games into the comfort of players' homes and quickly became one of the best-selling consoles of all time. The NES had an impressive library of over 700 games, including iconic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Contra.

One of the lesser-known but still beloved games on the NES is Rockin' Kats. Developed by ADK and released in 1989, Rockin' Kats was a side-scrolling beat-em-up game that followed the adventures of two cat brothers named Tomahawk and Catnip. The game's unique blend of music-based combat and colorful characters made it a standout title in the NES library.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Rockin' Kats and its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts. We will also examine the game's age rating and provide information on how to play the game safely with younger players.

The Gameplay of Rockin' Kats

Rockin' Kats is an action-packed beat-em-up game that challenges players to navigate through levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and power-ups. The game's protagonist, Tomahawk, can perform a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, and special moves such as the "Whisker Blast." Players must use these attacks strategically to defeat enemies and overcome challenging platforming sections.

One of the most innovative features of Rockin' Kats is its music-based combat system. The game's soundtrack, composed by Keiko Niitsu, is catchy and upbeat, with each level featuring a unique musical theme that complements the gameplay. When players attack an enemy or defeat an opponent in battle, they earn "rock" points, which can be used to trigger special moves or purchase power-ups.

The graphics and sound design of Rockin' Kats are also noteworthy. The game's colorful characters and environments are reminiscent of classic cartoons, with bold lines and bright colors that add to the game's overall charm. The sound effects, music, and voice acting (provided by Brian Tochi) all contribute to an immersive gaming experience.

The Storyline of Rockin' Kats

Rockin' Kats follows the adventures of two cat brothers, Tomahawk and Catnip, as they fight against the evil Dr. Takaheiki, a mad scientist who seeks to take over the world with his army of robotic cats. The game's storyline is simple but engaging, with players guiding Tomahawk through levels set in various environments such as cities, forests, and mountains.

Throughout their quest, Tomahawk and Catnip encounter a range of colorful characters, including other animals, allies, and enemies. These characters are often referenced in the game's dialogue and sound effects, adding to the overall charm and humor of the title.

Age Rating of Rockin' Kats

Rockin' Kats is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which means that the game is suitable for players of all ages. The game's violent combat, mild cartoon violence, and some suggestive themes are balanced out by its lighthearted tone and humor.

However, parents should note that Rockin' Kats contains some content that may not be suitable for younger players, such as:

• Mild cartoon violence: While the game is generally colorful and humorous, there are moments where characters can die or get injured.
• Some suggestive themes: The game's storyline features some mild innuendo and suggestive humor, particularly in the game's dialogue.
• Violence against robots: Players must defeat robotic cats using violence, which may not be suitable for younger players.

To play Rockin' Kats safely with younger players, parents should:

• Use parental controls to limit access to the game or set time limits on gameplay.
• Watch gameplay footage and preview the game before allowing children to play it.
• Consider playing the game together with their child to help them understand the context and tone of the game.

Conclusion

Rockin' Kats is a beloved NES game that has endured for decades due to its catchy soundtrack, colorful characters, and engaging gameplay. While the game's age rating may vary depending on individual circumstances, it is generally suitable for players of all ages.

As we conclude our article on Rockin' Kats, we hope that readers will appreciate this hidden gem in the NES library and consider adding it to their retro gaming collection. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, Rockin' Kats is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun and challenging beat-em-up experience.

Where to Play Rockin' Kats

Rockin' Kats is available on various platforms, including:

• NES Classic Edition: A miniature retro console preloaded with 30 classic NES games, including Rockin' Kats.
• Virtual Console: A digital download service offered by Nintendo for the Wii, Wii U, and Nintendo 3DS consoles, featuring a wide range of NES titles, including Rockin' Kats.
• Emulators: Fans can also play Rockin' Kats using various NES emulators available on PC, mobile devices, or other platforms.

Overall, Rockin' Kats is an essential title in the NES library that offers a unique gaming experience for players of all ages.