The Nintendo FDS was a home video game console released by Nintendo in Japan in 1984. It was the first handheld console to be designed for home use and was initially marketed as a more portable alternative to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The console featured a unique design, with a clamshell shape that allowed it to be used both at home and on the go.

One of the most popular games released for the Nintendo FDS was "Akai Yousai" (Japanese for "Red Beauty"), which has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the game, including its release details, gameplay, and age rating.

Release Details

"Akai Yousai" was released in 1985 as part of the Nintendo FDS library, along with several other titles such as "Daley & Co." and "Kid Kool". The game was developed by a small team at Nintendo, led by renowned game designer Gunpei Yokoi, who would go on to create many other iconic games for Nintendo, including the Game Boy.

Gameplay

"Akai Yousai" is a side-scrolling action-adventure game that follows the story of a young girl named Maria, who lives in a mystical realm filled with mythical creatures and ancient magic. The player controls Maria as she navigates through various levels, fighting enemies and collecting power-ups to progress through the game.

The gameplay is similar to other classic platformers from the time, with an emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. However, "Akai Yousai" has a unique twist: the game features a day-night cycle that affects the behavior of the creatures and obstacles in the levels. For example, certain enemies will only appear at night, while others will be vulnerable to light-based attacks during the day.

The graphics and sound design of "Akai Yousai" are characteristic of 80s-era games. The game features colorful, if somewhat simplistic, pixel art visuals, with a range of enemies and bosses that have become iconic in the world of retro gaming. The soundtrack is equally memorable, with catchy tunes that still evoke nostalgia in many players today.

Age Rating

"Akai Yousai" was originally released for the Nintendo FDS with an age rating of "S" (Suitable), which indicated that the game was suitable for all ages. However, when the game was re-released as part of the Virtual Console service on the Wii in 2007, it received a revised rating of T for Teen from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

The T rating is a nod to the game's mild violence and occasional cartoonish brutality, which may be considered too intense for younger players. However, fans of the game have argued that these elements are not as graphic or disturbing as some other games rated T.

Release on Virtual Console

"Akai Yousai" was one of the first Nintendo FDS titles to be re-released on the Virtual Console service, which allowed classic games to be purchased and played on modern consoles. The game was initially released on the Wii in 2007, followed by releases on the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and New Nintendo 3DS.

The Virtual Console release of "Akai Yousai" featured updated graphics and sound design, as well as additional features such as leaderboards and replay analysis. The game has since become a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts, with many players considering it to be one of the best games on the Nintendo FDS.

Conclusion

"Akai Yousai" is a hidden gem in the world of retro gaming, offering a unique blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving that will appeal to fans of classic action-adventure games. With its colorful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and addictive gameplay, it's no wonder that this game has become a cult classic among retro gamers.

While the age rating for "Akai Yousai" may be slightly more restrictive than some players would like, there's no denying that this game is an enjoyable experience that will appeal to fans of all ages. If you're a fan of retro gaming or just looking for a new challenge to tackle, "Akai Yousai" is definitely worth checking out.

Release Dates:

• 1985: Nintendo FDS (Japan)
• 2007: Virtual Console (Wii, Wii U, New Nintendo 3DS)
• 2014: Virtual Console (Nintendo 3DS)

Platforms

• Nintendo FDS
• Virtual Console (Wii, Wii U, New Nintendo 3DS)
• Nintendo 3DS

Genre

• Action-Adventure

Rating

• ESRB: T for Teen (USA)
• CERO: A (Japan)

Players