The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary video game console that has been a staple of many gamers' childhoods. Released in 1985, the NES brought iconic games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Contra to living rooms around the world. Among these classics, Urban Champion stands out as a unique and often overlooked title that is worth revisiting.

What is Urban Champion?

Urban Champion is a sports game developed by Nintendo for the NES, released in 1989. The game was designed to appeal to a younger audience, with simple gameplay and colorful graphics. Players control their character, a martial artist named Jack, as he competes in various combat sports like boxing, karate, and sumo wrestling.

The objective of Urban Champion is to defeat your opponents by landing successful attacks and dodging their moves. The game features six different disciplines, each with its own set of rules and challenges. As players progress through the game, they unlock new characters, arenas, and moves, which adds to the game's replay value.

Gameplay

Urban Champion is a straightforward, easy-to-learn game that requires quick reflexes and timing to master. Players must navigate their character around the ring or arena, avoiding incoming attacks while looking for opportunities to strike back. The game features a simple control scheme, with two buttons used for punching and kicking actions.

The gameplay is fast-paced and frenetic, with opponents throwing punches, kicks, and other moves that players must dodge or block. As players gain experience and level up, their character becomes more agile and powerful, allowing them to execute more complex combos and attacks.

Graphics and Sound

Urban Champion's graphics are characteristic of the NES era, with simple, pixelated characters and backgrounds. However, the game's use of bright colors and bold patterns makes it visually appealing, especially for younger players.

The sound design in Urban Champion is equally impressive, with catchy music and sound effects that enhance the game's overall atmosphere. The background music is a lively, energetic tune that complements the fast-paced gameplay perfectly.

Replay Value

Urban Champion has a significant replay value due to its simple yet addictive gameplay. Players can compete against each other in local multiplayer mode, testing their skills against friends and family members. The game also features a high score system, which motivates players to improve their performance and beat their previous scores.

Additionally, Urban Champion has a unique mechanic that allows players to unlock new characters and moves as they progress through the game. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies and tactics.

Legacy

Urban Champion may not be as well-known as some other NES games, but it remains an important part of Nintendo's legacy. Released during a time when the NES was still establishing itself in the market, Urban Champion helped to establish the console as a major player in the gaming industry.

The game has also been recognized for its innovative use of the NES hardware, with its simple yet effective gameplay mechanics that showcase the console's capabilities.

Age Rating

Urban Champion is rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages. However, parents may want to exercise caution due to the game's occasional mild violence and suggestive humor.

In terms of age rating in other countries, Urban Champion is typically classified as follows:

• Australia: G (General)
• Europe: 3+ ( Suitable for children aged 3 and above)
• Japan: C (Children) - suitable for children aged 6 and above
• United Kingdom: U (Universal) - suitable for all ages

Conclusion

Urban Champion is a classic NES game that offers an enjoyable and addictive gaming experience. With its simple gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy sound design, the game appeals to players of all ages. While it may not be as well-known as some other NES titles, Urban Champion remains an important part of Nintendo's legacy and a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast.

In terms of age rating, Urban Champion is suitable for players of all ages due to its mild violence and suggestive humor. However, parents should exercise caution when introducing children under the age of 3 to the game.

Overall, Urban Champion is a hidden gem in the NES library that is worth revisiting for both nostalgic gamers and newcomers to the series.