The Nintendo FDS is a relatively lesser-known console in the history of Nintendo, but it has an interesting and unique lineup of games, one of which is Gomoku Narabe. Released in Japan as a prototype for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), this game was later adapted into other formats, including the Famicom and eventually, the Super NES. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Gomoku Narabe, its history, gameplay, and age rating.

History of Gomoku Narabe

Gomoku Narabe, which translates to "Five-Piece Capture" or "Five-Measure Chess," is an adaptation of the classic Japanese board game Go. The game was first released in 1983 as a prototype for the Famicom Disk System (FDS) and was developed by the renowned video game designer, Yoshiki Okamoto. The game's unique gameplay mechanics were designed to appeal to both casual players and experienced Go enthusiasts.

The Famicom version of Gomoku Narabe was later released in 1985 as part of the Famicom Disk System library, while a Super NES port was also developed, but it was never officially released due to licensing issues. Despite its limited release, Gomoku Narabe remains a beloved game among fans of strategy and board games.

Gameplay

Gomoku Narabe is a two-player game where players take turns placing black or white stones on a grid, with the goal of capturing their opponent's stones by sandwiching them between their own. The game requires strategic thinking, as players need to balance short-term goals (capturing individual stones) with long-term strategies (controlling key areas of the board).

The gameplay is simple yet challenging, with a few unique twists that set it apart from traditional Go games. For example, some pieces on the board have special abilities, such as being able to "capture" multiple stones at once or moving extra spaces.

One of the most interesting aspects of Gomoku Narabe is its use of disk-based gameplay mechanics. Players can use a variety of disk-shaped objects to capture and manipulate stones, adding an element of physical interaction to the game. This unique mechanic makes for a fascinating gameplay experience that's both strategic and tactile.

Age Rating

As with many strategy games, Gomoku Narabe is rated T (Teen) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The rating reflects the game's challenging nature and competitive multiplayer mode, which may not be suitable for younger players. Additionally, some of the game's themes and strategies can be quite complex, making it appealing to older players.

In Japan, Gomoku Narabe is rated C (Common) by the Japanese Entertainment Software Rating Organization (ESKO), indicating that the game is generally suitable for all ages except those under 10.

Release and Legacy

Despite its unique gameplay mechanics and challenging nature, Gomoku Narabe never achieved widespread commercial success. However, it has maintained a loyal following among fans of strategy games and Go enthusiasts.

In recent years, the game's cult status has grown, with many retro gaming communities and forums showcasing the game as a hidden gem. The Super NES port, while not officially released, remains a beloved collector's item among Famicom Disk System enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Gomoku Narabe is a fascinating game that offers a unique blend of strategy, board games, and disk-based gameplay mechanics. Its challenging nature and competitive multiplayer mode make it appealing to older players, while its complex themes and strategies provide a rich experience for fans of Go and strategy games.

While the game's commercial success was limited, its cult status has grown in recent years, making it a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. If you're interested in trying out Gomoku Narabe or learning more about its unique gameplay mechanics, be sure to track down a copy on your local retro console or online marketplace.

In the meantime, fans of strategy games and board games can continue to appreciate this hidden gem from Nintendo's Famicom Disk System era.