The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking video game console released by Nintendo in 1985. The NES was accompanied by the "Videomation" name in some countries, including the United States. In this article, we will delve into the hot reviews of NES Videomation games, their age ratings, and what made them so popular.

Background of NES Videomation

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was introduced in 1985 as a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Famicom. The console was designed to be more user-friendly and accessible to a broader audience. The "Videomation" name was used by Nintendo in North America for marketing purposes.

In 1989, Nintendo changed their strategy and shifted focus from Videomation to NES branding. This change allowed them to better compete with Sega's Genesis console, which had gained popularity during the late 1980s.

Games for NES Videomation

The NES Videomation was released in 1987 and featured a unique controller design that included a built-in D-pad and button layout. Some popular games for the NES Videomation include:

1. DuckTales: A platformer based on the popular cartoon series of the same name.
2. Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers: Another platformer, this time starring the beloved chipmunk duo from Disney's Chip 'n Dale animated series.
3. The Legend of Zelda: An action-adventure game that would become a classic and spawn numerous sequels and spin-offs.

Age Ratings

Games for NES Videomation were rated by various organizations, including the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America and the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) in the UK. The ratings provided valuable information about the content and suitability of each game for different age groups.

In the United States, games received one of five age ratings:

• General Audiences: Suitable for all ages.
• Teen: Suitable for teenagers aged 13 and above.
• Mature Teen: Suitable for mature teenagers aged 17 and above.
• Adults Only: Suitable only for adults.

The ESRB rating system was introduced in 1994, long after the NES Videomation era. However, many classic games from the time period were already rated based on their content by other organizations.

Hot Reviews of NES Videomation Games

NES Videomation games received overwhelmingly positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the console's unique controller design and the quality of its games.

1. DuckTales was praised for its challenging gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack.
2. Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers was commended for its clever platforming mechanics and engaging storyline.
3. The Legend of Zelda set a new standard for action-adventure games with its vast open world, memorable characters, and innovative dungeon design.

Some notable publications that reviewed NES Videomation games include:

• Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM): A popular gaming magazine at the time, EGM provided in-depth reviews and previews of NES Videomation titles.
• GamePro: Another prominent gaming publication, GamePro offered concise but informative reviews and ratings for NES Videomation games.
• IGN: The now-famous online gaming portal was founded in 1996, but it reviewed many classic NES Videomation games during its early years.

Legacy of NES Videomation

The NES Videomation left a lasting impact on the video game industry. Its unique controller design and innovative games helped establish Nintendo as a major player in the market.

While the "Videomation" name is no longer used, the console's influence can still be seen in modern gaming peripherals and controllers. The NES Videomation also paved the way for future consoles like the SNES, N64, GameCube, Wii, and Switch, which built upon Nintendo's legacy and continued to shape the gaming industry.

Conclusion

The NES Videomation was a groundbreaking console that introduced many innovative features to the gaming world. Its popular games, unique controller design, and memorable characters have left a lasting impact on the industry.

If you're interested in exploring classic NES Videomation games, we recommend checking out digital stores like Nintendo eShop or retro gaming platforms like Nintendo Switch Online. With the resurgence of interest in retro gaming, it's easier than ever to experience these timeless classics for yourself.