The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking console released in the mid-1980s that brought joy and excitement to gamers of all ages. Among its vast library of iconic games, one title stands out for its unique blend of humor, satire, and action: The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man. In this article, we'll delve into the world of this beloved game and explore its features, age rating, and availability in Europe.
A Tale of Two Heroes
The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is a side-scrolling beat-em-up developed by Video System and published by Konami for the NES. The game takes place in the fictional town of Springfield, where two unlikely heroes are about to team up to save their beloved city from an alien invasion.
Radioactive Man, a.k.a. Homer Simpson, and Bartman, a masked vigilante inspired by Batman, must put aside their differences to defeat the evil alien overlord, Professor Frink's brother, who has created an army of robotic minions to take over Springfield.
Gameplay
The gameplay is straightforward, with players controlling both Radioactive Man (Homer Simpson) and Bartman as they navigate through six levels, each set in a different part of Springfield. The controls are simple, with Radioactive Man using his "super strength" to punch enemies, while Bartman uses his agility to dodge attacks.
The game features a unique blend of humor and satire, with the characters' interactions and personalities on full display. The graphics are colorful and reminiscent of classic cartoons, adding to the game's lighthearted atmosphere.
Age Rating
The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is rated 7+ by the European Age Restriction Advisory Group (ERAG), which means it's suitable for players aged 7 and above. The game's content includes mild violence, cartoonish humor, and some suggestive dialogue, but it's overall a family-friendly title.
In terms of M-rated content, the game has been classified as "Cartoon Violence" by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which suggests that while the game's violence is cartoonish and non-realistic, it may still be too intense for younger players.
Availability in Europe
The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man was released in Europe in 1991 as a pack-in title with the NES console. It was later re-released as a standalone cartridge in the late 1990s and has since become a sought-after collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In recent years, the game has been made available on various digital platforms, including the Nintendo Virtual Console and the Wii U Virtual Console, allowing new generations of gamers to experience this classic NES title.
Collectibility
The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is a rare find in the world of retro gaming, with many collectors willing to pay top dollar for a copy of the game. The game's rarity is due in part to its limited release and subsequent discontinuation after the initial pack-in title run.
In 2019, a near-mint condition copy of the game sold on eBay for £150 (approximately $200 USD), making it one of the more expensive NES titles among collectors.
Conclusion
The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is a beloved NES title that has captured the hearts of gamers around the world. With its unique blend of humor, satire, and action, this game offers an entertaining experience that's suitable for players of all ages.
In terms of age rating, The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is rated 7+ by ERAG, making it a safe choice for older children and adults who enjoy retro gaming. While the game may contain some mild violence and suggestive dialogue, its overall content makes it an excellent addition to any NES collection.
For collectors and enthusiasts, The Simpsons: Bartman Meets Radioactive Man is a rare find that offers a unique piece of gaming history. Its availability on digital platforms has made it easier for new gamers to experience this classic title, but its rarity among physical copies ensures that it remains a highly sought-after collector's item.