The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved consoles of all time, with a library of games that still holds up today. One such game that stands out among the rest is Thunderbirds, a platformer released in 1987 for the NES in North America. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Thunderbirds, its gameplay, graphics, and more.

Overview

Thunderbirds was developed by Beam Software and published by Sunsoft. It's an action-platformer that follows the adventures of International Rescue, a team of heroes led by Jeff Tracy, as they attempt to stop the evil Hood from stealing their pets. The game takes place in various locations around the world, including New York City, Moscow, and Los Angeles.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Thunderbirds is straightforward but challenging. Players control one of four members of International Rescue - Jeff, Alan, Keith, or Scott - as they navigate through levels, avoiding obstacles and enemies while collecting pets to return to their owners. The game features a variety of power-ups, including the "jetpack" which allows players to fly and reach hard-to-access areas.

The controls are simple, with the player able to move left and right, jump, and shoot energy blasts from their wrist-mounted device. However, the game's difficulty level increases as the player progresses through the levels, with tougher enemies and more complex obstacles appearing later on.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics of Thunderbirds are typical of 8-bit era games, with colorful but somewhat simplistic pixel art. The characters and backgrounds are well-designed, with distinct visual styles for each location. However, the overall presentation is a bit dated compared to modern games.

The sound design is also noteworthy, with catchy and upbeat music that adds to the game's energetic atmosphere. Sound effects are also used effectively to enhance gameplay, such as the energy blasts and the sounds of enemies moving around.

Age Rating

According to various online sources, including MobyRank and GameRankings, Thunderbirds is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This rating is based on the game's mild violence, brief suggestive humor, and some cartoon-style bloodshed.

The ESRB rating of T for Teen indicates that the game may not be suitable for all ages, particularly younger players who are easily frightened or disturbed by graphic violence. However, it's worth noting that Thunderbirds is a more light-hearted and family-friendly game compared to other platformers from the same era.

Legacy

Despite its relatively low profile compared to other NES games, Thunderbirds has maintained a loyal fan base over the years. The game's colorful graphics and catchy music make it a nostalgic treat for many retro gaming enthusiasts.

In recent years, the game has been re-released on various platforms, including the Nintendo Virtual Console and mobile devices. This exposure has introduced the game to a new generation of players who may not have grown up with NES consoles but are drawn to the series' classic charm.

Comparison to Other Games

Thunderbirds is often compared to other 8-bit era platformers like Contra, Metal Storm, and Battletoads. While it shares some similarities with these games, such as its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay, Thunderbirds has a unique selling point in its colorful graphics and catchy music.

In terms of difficulty, Thunderbirds is generally considered more accessible than other platformers from the same era, making it a great introduction to the genre for new players. However, the game's relatively short length means that players may find themselves completing it within a few hours.

Conclusion

Thunderbirds is a classic NES game that has stood the test of time due to its charming graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay. While it may not be as well-known as some other NES titles, Thunderbirds remains a beloved platformer that is still enjoyable today.

If you're looking for a retro gaming experience that will transport you back to the 80s, Thunderbirds is definitely worth checking out. With its colorful graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay, this game is sure to bring a smile to your face and keep you entertained for hours on end.

System Requirements

• NES console
• Compatible with various emulators, including FCEUX and Nestopia

Recommended Age Rating

T for Teen (ESRB)

Platforms

• NES
• Virtual Console (Nintendo)
• Mobile devices (iOS, Android)

Developer

Beam Software

Publisher

Sunsoft

Release Date

1987 (NES)

Genre

Action-platformer