The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved gaming consoles of all time. Released in 1985, it has stood the test of time, with a vast library of games that continue to entertain gamers of all ages. One of the most sought-after NES cartridges among collectors is the Super Cartridge Ver 5 - 7 in 1 (Asia) (Unl), which we will delve into in this article.

What is a Super Cartridge?

A Super Cartridge is a modified version of an original NES game cartridge that allows for the addition of multiple games onto one single unit. This was achieved by modifying the cartridge's ROM chip to accommodate additional game code, creating a unique and valuable collector's item among NES enthusiasts.

The Ver 5 - 7 in 1 (Asia) (Unl) Cartridge

This particular Super Cartridge is an extremely rare find among collectors, with only a handful of copies known to exist. It features seven games from the original NES library:

1. Contra
2. BattleToads
3. The Mummy's Revenge
4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Chaos in the Streets
5. Mega Man 7
6. Super Punch-Out!!
7. and Double Dragon

The cartridge is a rare find due to several factors:

1. Production limitations: Only a small batch of these cartridges were produced, making them extremely scarce.
2. Region-specific release: The Asian market was one of the few regions where this cartridge was released, which has contributed to its rarity.
3. Lack of documentation: There is limited information available on this particular Super Cartridge, including its origins and production details.

Age Rating

The age rating for this Super Cartridge varies depending on the region and country where it is purchased. In general, these types of Super Cartridges are considered as non-rated or unrated games due to their modified nature.

In the UK, for example, the Independent Entertainment Authority (IEA) assigns a suitability label to all video games sold in the country. The IEA uses the following ratings:

• PG: Suitable for all ages.
• 12+: Contains moderate violence and/or strong language that may not be suitable for under-12s.
• 18+: Contains high levels of violence, strong language, or other adult material that is unsuitable for anyone below 18 years old.

Since Super Cartridges like the Ver 5 - 7 in 1 (Asia) (Unl) contain multiple games with varying content, it's difficult to assign a single age rating. However, some of the individual games on this cartridge may carry different ratings depending on their content. For instance:

• Contra and BattleToads are generally rated as PG or 12+ in most countries due to their violent and action-packed nature.
• The Mummy's Revenge is often rated as 12+ for its moderate levels of violence, while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Chaos in the Streets may carry a similar rating for its cartoon-like violence.
• Mega Man 7 and Super Punch-Out!! are generally considered suitable for all ages, with no significant content that would warrant an age restriction.

Mega Man 7

Mega Man 7 is one of the most iconic platformers of all time, released in 1995 for the NES. It features eight playable characters, including Mega Man himself, as well as a unique storyline and challenging gameplay mechanics. The game has been praised by critics and fans alike for its addictive gameplay and nostalgic charm.

Double Dragon

Double Dragon is an action-adventure classic from 1989, developed by Technōs Japan. This side-scrolling beat-em-up introduced the world to two iconic characters: Billy Lee and Jimmy Lee, two brothers fighting against a powerful crime lord in their home city of New York City. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years but remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

The Mummy's Revenge

Released in 1989, The Mummy's Revenge is an action-adventure platformer developed by LucasArts and published by Virgin Games. In this game, players control Billy Lee as he battles his way through ancient temples to rescue a princess from the clutches of an evil sorcerer. The game features challenging gameplay mechanics, atmospheric music, and impressive graphics for its time.

BattleToads

Released in 1991, BattleToads is an action-adventure platformer developed by Rare and published by Tradewest. This side-scrolling beat-em-up introduces three new playable characters: Zitz, Pippy, and Rash, as they fight against the evil Dark Queen and her minions to save their home planet of Angel Island.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Chaos in the Streets

Released in 1991, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Chaos in the Streets is a side-scrolling beat-em-up developed by Konami. This game follows the Turtles as they fight against the villainous Shredder and his Foot Clan to save their city of New York from destruction.

Contra

Released in 1987, Contra is an action-adventure platformer developed by Konami. In this classic game, players control Bill and Lance as they battle against an alien invasion on a fictional continent called Red Falcon Base. The game features fast-paced gameplay mechanics and challenging level design.

Conclusion

The Super Cartridge Ver 5 - 7 in 1 (Asia) (Unl) is one of the most rare and sought-after NES cartridges among collectors, with only a handful of copies known to exist. Its rarity stems from limited production runs, regional releases, and lack of documentation. While there isn't an official age rating for this cartridge due to its modified nature, individual games on it may carry different ratings based on their content.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your NES journey, the Super Cartridge Ver 5 - 7 in 1 (Asia) (Unl) is an incredible piece of gaming history that deserves attention and admiration.