The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved gaming consoles of all time. Released in 1985, it brought a wide range of innovative and addictive games to players around the world. Among these classic titles, Super Pitfall II stands out as a fascinating example of the NES's capabilities and its enduring appeal.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Super Pitfall II, a game that was initially released in Japan in 1987 as part of the Pitfall! series. We'll explore its unique features, gameplay mechanics, and history, including information on the localization prototype that was available for Western audiences.

What is Super Pitfall II?

Super Pitfall II, also known as Pitfall! Special Edition or simply Pitfall II, is a platformer game developed by Hudson Soft and published by Nintendo. The game takes place in various jungle environments, where players control Pitfall Harry, the main protagonist of the series, as he navigates through treacherous terrain, avoiding obstacles and enemies to reach the exit.

The gameplay mechanics are similar to those of its predecessors, with an emphasis on exploration, timing-based jumps, and hazard avoidance. However, Super Pitfall II introduces several new features that set it apart from other games in the series. For example, players can now use a variety of items, such as bombs, bridges, and power-ups, to aid them in their quest.

The Localization Prototype

In 1992, Nintendo released a localization prototype of Super Pitfall II for Western audiences. This prototype was created by a team of developers at Nintendo's Los Angeles office, who worked closely with Hudson Soft to adapt the game for Western markets.

Unfortunately, due to internal conflicts and production delays, the localization process stalled, and the game was ultimately not released in its original form in North America or Europe. However, the localization prototype has since become a sought-after collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts and fans of the Pitfall! series.

Age Rating

As with any Nintendo game, Super Pitfall II received an age rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). In 1992, the ESRB assigned an E for Everyone rating to the localization prototype. At the time, this was a relatively lenient rating, indicating that the game was suitable for players of all ages.

In modern terms, the ESRB would likely assign a T for Teen rating to Super Pitfall II, due to its mild cartoon violence, some suggestive humor, and occasional brief strong language. However, it's worth noting that these elements are relatively minor and do not detract from the game's overall fun and family-friendly nature.

Why Was the Game Not Released?

So, why did Nintendo decide not to release Super Pitfall II in its original form? The answer lies in a combination of factors, including internal conflicts, production delays, and market trends.

According to various reports, Hudson Soft was having trouble adapting their 16-bit technology to the NES hardware, which limited the game's graphics capabilities. Meanwhile, Nintendo's Los Angeles office was struggling to create an appealing Western version of the game that would appeal to a broader audience.

Additionally, the Pitfall! series had not achieved significant commercial success in Japan at the time, and Nintendo may have been hesitant to invest more resources into the localization process. As a result, the project was ultimately shelved, leaving the localization prototype as a footnote in gaming history.

Legacy and Impact

Despite its relatively obscure status, Super Pitfall II has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry. The game's innovative use of item-based gameplay mechanics and its emphasis on exploration and timing-based jumps have influenced numerous other platformers that followed.

Moreover, the localization prototype serves as an important reminder of Nintendo's willingness to experiment with new ideas and localizations. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, the project demonstrates the company's commitment to bringing unique and innovative games to Western audiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Super Pitfall II is a fascinating example of a NES game that was initially released in Japan but never saw the light of day in its original form in Western markets. The localization prototype provides a rare glimpse into the game's development process and its potential for Western audiences.

While the game may not have achieved widespread success due to internal conflicts and production delays, its legacy lives on through its innovative gameplay mechanics and its place as a footnote in gaming history. As a retro gaming enthusiast, it's worth seeking out this prototype or, at the very least, learning more about its fascinating story.